Group Fights Sea Watch Plan In Manasquan

MANASQUAN – Possible opposition is mounting against the proposed Sea Watch Beach Development in Manasquan, local residents say.

Local residents have started a movement called "Keep It Simple" at Sea Watch. Manasquan Carol Budisak, speaking for the opposition group, said the development would "permanently destroy this last undeveloped beach front in the town."

"Manasquan is building a new community center with meeting rooms and office space," she said. "In a town of approximately 5,000 residents, there is no need for more of this on the beachfront."

Some local residents and architects are sketching up a plan that would accomplish what the people have asked for, she said. That involves something other than a multi-level, multi-million-dollar structure. The plan would also have more parking.

Manasquan officials recently provided an update on its improvements to the Sea Water Recreational Area. Officials noted that Superstorm Sandy partially destroyed the existing Sea Watch building, and a new modern site was to provide:

• A new, modern and resilient multifunctional public building
• Better pedestrian walkways and bicycle facilities that are aesthetically pleasing with increased landscaping areas
• Rehabilitation to SMRSA pump station façade
• Rehabilitation to Manasquan bungalow

Here are some of the new Sea Watch building and facilities:

• Concession (beach fare)
• Sundries store
• Public restrooms
• Deck area for dining
• Community multipurpose room
• Additional deck area for dining
• Lifeguard area
• Lockers
• Storage to support beach park
• Storage to support Sea Watch building
• Sufficient bicycle parking
• Pickup/drop off/turnaround area
• Aesthetic façade to SMRSA building to match design of new building
• Two bungalows to be demolished and one repurposed
• Pedestrian enhancements including decorative walkways, benches, ADA accessibility
• Landscaping
• Potential improvements to existing bath house

Here are the plans: