Nearly five years after Superstorm Sandy, the Taylor Pavilion in Belmar reopens today.

Despite the town being among the first to rebuild its boardwalk after the storm, it took five years to work out plans, funding and design of the building.

The pavilion will be home to beach operations, concessions and special events.

"It's marking the end of our recovery from Hurricane Sandy, the returning of the pavilions to the public and beach and signal we are ready for season. Taylor Pavilion is back and everyone is very excited," says Colleen Connolly, Belmar Business administrator.

The pavilion is named for former long-time Mayor John Taylor. His 99-year-old widow, Dorothy, is expected to be at the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Belmar hopes to open a second new public safety pavilion in a few weeks.