By NANETTE LoBIONDO GALLOWAY
VENTNOR – The city got some good news last week about its planned replacement of the aging gazebo located at the beachfront park on Newport Avenue. In addition to receiving CAFRA approval to build a new bandshell, the city learned the Ventnor Beautification Committee will provide funding to ensure the bandshell gets built.
The Board of Commissioners approved a second resolution for architect William McLees of Somers Point to design the bandshell. The first resolution awarding McLees a $39,250 contract to begin the design and construction process was approved in December 2021.
“This is now coming to fruition,” Commissioner Tim Kriebel said.
The design has been simplified and its canopy will resemble a butterfly, Kriebel said.
McLees has designed other public projects in Ventnor, including the new Lifeguard Headquarters building and improvements to the Ventnor Pier.
The bandshell will be low-maintenance, low-to-the-ground, occupy the same location as the gazebo, have a concrete foundation and have Ipe wood accents.
The uniform design finishes replicate elements of other projects McLees has designed for the city. It will have hardscaping of brick pavers that residents can purchase to help fund the project and be Americans with Disabilities Act accessible. It will be three times the size of the gazebo, 25 by 30 feet, to accommodate larger bands during the well-attended summertime evening concerts, Kriebel said.
“It will be another great addition to the city,” he said. “We picked a canopy you don’t see that often…it has a butterfly shape to it.”
Resident Shelley D’Orazio, who chairs the Beautification Committee, said the project “is a long time coming” and that the organization would provide a $75,000 donation when the ribbon is cut on the band shell.
“They are always here to help support things that are happening in the city,” Kriebel said. “Your efforts have grown with the city, and with all the city has to offer. We are walking this path together.”
The Beautification Committee holds several community events during the year to raise funds to beautify the city with banners, trash and recycling containers, American flags, welcome signs and more. In operation for more than a decade, the group hosts the annual Chef’s Night Out event and the biennial Ventnor Garden Tour, among others.
Mayor Lance Landgraf credited the Beautification volunteers for their “tremendous” efforts on behalf of the city.
“The money will certainly be put to good use,” he said.
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