Long Branch Council Approves Ocean Place's New Plans For Hotel

The Long Branch Council has given Ocean Place Resort and Spa's latest improvement project its blessing.

The owner, United Capital Corp, is looking to improve the southeastern portion of the property which fronts the promenade and beach by adding an outdoor pool, tiki bar and sitting area.

Ocean Place is in the city's Hotel Campus redevelopment zone, so the council can review any changes made there to ensure they are consistent with its redevelopment plan.

Ocean Place representatives first presented the changes last month, but were asked to alter some aspects of the plan by the council.

Ocean Place's architect Rick Zimmer said some of the changes included adding a flat roof design to tiki bar and an increased buffer between the city bike path and the bar area and pool. The council had some safety concerns and originally thought the pool area and bar were too close to the bike path.

United Capital Corp Vice President Michael Weinbaum said the pool will only be used by hotel guests who will be given a special wrist band. The tiki bar is also open to the public and its patrons will be given a different wrist band and will be asked to present an ID.

Weinbaum said there will be security around the entrance to the bar and in the pool area.

These are part of the second phase of improvements for Ocean Place that are slated to begin this fall. They also include a new indoor spa and moving the indoor pool from the second floor to the first floor.

Weinbaum said United Capital Corp's plan to improve the outdoor area of the hotel will have to be approved by the Long Branch Planning Board before it can move forward. The application is expected to be heard by the board at its June 18 meeting.

If the board approves the plans, Weinbaum said workers would "like to break ground some time in September."