Rebuilding A Rundown Seaside Town

Asbury Park, N.J., was known as 'Beirut by the shore' until a $1.2 billion redevelopment project sparked the creation of a gay mecca.

1 minute read

May 8, 2004, 5:00 AM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen

"In the late 1990s, Asbury Park's fortunes began to change. The local government ushered in a $1.2 billion redevelopment project, including a new boardwalk and oceanfront condominiums. But as you stroll along the wide streets where huge Victorian houses once sat in varying states of disrepair, you see signs of the real reason for this town's turnaround. Look up and you'll likely notice flags flying from newly painted clapboard siding. They're rainbow flags, an emblem of the gay community, whose members have steadily been purchasing property here during the past five years, contributing to the long-awaited renaissance of this city of 17,000 residents."

Thanks to Chris Steins

FULL STORY: Rundown Seaside Town Enjoys a Renaissance

Wednesday, May 5, 2004 in Wall St. Journal

Community / Economic Development New Jersey

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