Belmar boardwalk bathroom project draws attention, mixed reactions from residents
The permanent facility will replace temporary trailers used since Superstorm Sandy, but some neighbors say the building impacts ocean views.
A large building under construction on Belmar's busy boardwalk is drawing attention and generating mixed reactions from residents and visitors.
"I thought it was a restaurant," one person said and laughed.
The structure is not a restaurant. It is a new permanent bathroom facility on the 16th Avenue boardwalk that will replace the temporary restroom trailers that have been used since Superstorm Sandy.
According to town leaders, the building's elevation and height comply with strict Department of Environmental Protection standards. However, some neighbors say the structure takes away from the ocean view.
The project was originally expected to be completed by Memorial Day weekend, but construction delays have pushed the opening back until at least mid-August, according to town officials.
"We were here the other week, and it was really crowded, and there was at least 100 people waiting in line for the bathroom, so I feel like more bathrooms might be a better thing for Belmar," said Elliana DiSantis, of Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
Others are less enthusiastic about the location and size of the building.
"This is one of the busiest streets in Belmar because it's actually a county road. It's like the entrance to Belmar and now you used to drive up and see the ocean in front of you. Now, this is what you see," said Donna Pompilio, of Belmar.
Some locals have dubbed the new facility the "Poop Palace."
Most of the funding for the project comes from a grant through the New Jersey Boardwalk Preservation Fund.
Belmar's administrator told News 12 that all construction must be completed by the end of the year, or the grant funding will expire.
