In the 1930s, the town of Asbury Park built a massive steam plant to provide heat to its boardwalk attractions. Architects Warren and Wetmore, of New York City, also designed the Berkeley Carteret Hotel just to the north. The steam plant consisted of three massive boilers that used oil to create heat and pump it through pipes to the various buildings. Water was probably drawn from Wesley Lake. Unfortunately, the steam plant was no longer used after World War II. It is located at Ocean Ave Boardwalk, Asbury Park, NJ 07712.
The city's boardwalk and downtown are currently undergoing a revitalization. The historic Steinbach department store building was reopened in 2007, as was the Berkeley-Carteret Hotel. North Beach was developed in 2007 and the Asbury Hotel was redeveloped in 2018. Asbury Avenue has seen a revival as well. A movie theatre has opened at the Convention Hall, and the local newspaper, The Coaster, has been covering local news in the community since 1983. Learn more.
The Asbury Park Steam Plant lost its purpose over 70 years ago, but its past is still apparent today. Bruce Springsteen, the rock star who has performed in the historic building several times, was photographed north of the tower. The Stone Pony was originally set to move into the building, but the Cousin Brucie rock crowd halted the move. In the spring of 2016, Marlo Montanaro posted some stunning interior shots of the building.
The Carousel House was recently renovated with new glass, iron gates, and a cupola. It is also sometimes used to host local theater groups and bands. Red Bull has partnered with waterfront developer Madison Marquette to install a three-foot mini-bowl and a skate park within the carousel, called Forth Union. This attraction is the perfect way to experience the history of Asbury Park.
The Asbury Park Boardwalk is one of the "Big Jersey Six" seaside promenades. Although it is missing rides and piers, it is an incredible venue to experience the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. You can also watch a glass-blowing class if you're in the mood for an evening stroll. The Asbury Park Steam Plant is just a few of the attractions in Asbury Park. A fantastic read.
In the city's downtown, visitors can also enjoy the pristine beaches and the Jenkinson's Boardwalk, which has amusement rides, a gaming arcade, a homemade sweets shop, and mini-golf. Across the street, Point Pleasant is a beach town. Thomas Edison was a great inventor, and the Edison Laboratory contains his works. Whether you're interested in science, history, or both, you'll be fascinated by the town's numerous attractions.
