LONGPORT, NJ — On Saturday, July 4, Longport and the Trustees of Beach Terrace Park hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the borough’s newest beachfront destination.
The revitalized space, situated on Beach Terrace between 15th and 16th Aves, represents a significant community-driven transformation of Longport’s shoreline.
“On behalf of the Borough of Longport and Commissioners Dan Lawler and Jim Ulmer, we are incredibly proud of what has been accomplished here,” stated Mayor Patrick Armstrong.
Commissioner Lawler noted that while he had followed the progress through photographs, seeing the finished park in person was a different experience entirely.
“It was truly jaw-dropping,” Lawler said. “What you have achieved is amazing and undoubtedly award-worthy.”
“This park symbolizes a space built by the people, for the people. It is a project that will be cherished for generations to come, and we are deeply grateful to the trustees who devoted extraordinary time, care, and thoughtfulness to this vision.”
“I want to extend my sincere thanks to the donors who made this possible,” said Beach Terrace Park President Tony Ziccardi. “This vision began two years ago when the community set out to beautify an unused, sandy lot into a space that everyone could enjoy.”
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Lawler shared history of the 1,600-square-foot lot which once housed a section of the old boardwalk. It was destroyed during the Hurricane of 1944.
“About a decade ago, there were discussions about turning this area into a parking lot, but we knew that wasn’t the right fit. After Public Works initially cleaned the space, the residents of Longport stepped forward to lease and transform the land. The results are stunning”.
Ziccardi expressed gratitude for the Borough’s continued support.
Much praise for landscaper Jaim Lloyd, whose artistry defined the park’s walking path, lined with benches and multiple, distinct gardens. Even a serene Zen Garden!
The construction of Beach Terrace Park was funded entirely through private contributions. While the project is nearly complete, the nonprofit organization is still short $25,000 of the final fundraising goal.
Community members and organizations interested in helping bring this project across the finish line can make a donation at https://www.beachterracepark.com/.
Longport Celebrates Grand Opening of Beach Terrace Park with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony