A new chapter in Long Branch’s growth began on Friday, September 19, with the groundbreaking of the city’s Health, Wellness, and Technology Center and Park. Located at the corner of Bath and Third Avenues, the project promises to transform four acres into one of the largest and most innovative community destinations in the city. Construction is expected to take 12 to 15 months.
The site, valued at $30 million, was generously donated in 2021 by RWJBarnabas Health and Monmouth Medical Center, giving the city the opportunity to create a space that blends recreation, education, health, and history.
A Hub for Connection and Community Life
When complete, the development will bring together multiple features under one vision:
- A state-of-the-art Health, Wellness, and Technology Center
- A new satellite branch of the Long Branch Free Public Library
- A historic Railroad Museum
- A public park with walking trails, playgrounds, and pickleball courts
- An outdoor fitness area
- A seasonal café kiosk
- An amphitheater for concerts and community gatherings
The park is being designed not just for leisure, but as a hub that promotes health, digital access, and cultural enrichment for residents of all ages.
Honoring History, Inspiring the Future
Architectural plans pay homage to Long Branch’s historic charm with a covered porch, a sweeping staircase, and a decorative tower. The centerpiece development will consist of two main buildings:
Health and Wellness Center
A three-story facility dedicated to strengthening both body and mind:
- Lower Level: A full-service fitness center with cardio and strength equipment, studios for yoga, Zumba, and dance, and preserved features from a Gilded Age mansion once on the property—including a restored parlor with hand-crafted woodwork and a stone fireplace. The floor will also host the Long Branch Railroad Museum, showcasing model trains and historic artifacts from the New York and Long Branch Railroad.
- Main Floor: A commercial teaching kitchen that will provide cooking classes and nutrition programs for residents.
- Top Floor: Flexible community meeting rooms and offices for city and nonprofit health providers.
Technology Center
The adjacent building will expand digital access and learning opportunities with:
- Cutting-edge computers and collaborative workspaces
- Resources for students, job seekers, and residents navigating technology or language barriers
- A professional-grade podcasting studio available for public use
A Landmark for Long Branch’s Next Generation
With its blend of recreation, education, health services, and cultural preservation, the Health, Wellness, and Technology Center and Park is poised to become a landmark destination in Long Branch. It reflects the city’s commitment to honoring its past while investing boldly in the future.