West End Synagogue Decision Coming Tonight

The Long Branch Zoning Board of Adjustment is expected to reach a decision tonight on whether or not it will allow Chabad of the Shore to build a synagogue in West End.

The board has been listening to testimony from the applicant and the attorney representing several West End business owners who are against building the synagogue since last June.

Chabad wishes to build a two-story building that contains a 200-seat sanctuary, a 200-person capacity multipurpose room with a kitchen on the second floor, and five classrooms, office space and a room for religious services on the second floor. A large, 51-space parking lot in the rear of the property also is included in the plan.

The plan would include the demolition of an old movie theater on Ocean Avenue and two stores south of the structure; Mike's West End Deli, which is now vacant, and Lou's Uniforms. There are also two vacant apartments above the stores.

A synagogue is not a permitted use in the commercial zone, so Chabad of the Shore is looking to obtain a use variance to utilize the site and also obtain some minor bulk variances for parking and setbacks.

The board meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Long Branch City Hall.