Inspired by Somerset Development, one of the real estate industry’s foremost innovators in large-scale mixed-use redevelopment, today announced it has begun construction on a mixed-use multifamily development at the site of the former Inkwell Coffee House in downtown Long Branch, N.J.
Located at the corner of Second Ave and New Court, the contemporary three-story, 22-unit multifamily development will feature a mix of one- and two-bedroom market-rate apartments with private balconies just one block from Long Branch’s Ocean Avenue.
The 46,550-square-foot property will include 800 square feet of street-level retail, an indoor parking garage with electric vehicle charging stations, and a private roof deck for residents. A separate parking lot is located across the street to provide additional parking for residents and retail customers.
”We recognize this site’s storied history as a local landmark for Long Branch and the Jersey Shore, and are working carefully with the township and community members to ensure we honor its past while we work toward a new and successful future,” said Ralph Zucker, CEO and Founder of Inspired by Somerset Development. “We are excited to begin construction on this new building, which will help meet the significant demand for high-quality housing in the area while fitting seamlessly into the existing fabric of Long Branch’s West End and adding a new sense of vibrancy to this already dynamic area.”
Inspired acquired the property after being approached by Inkwell Coffee House’s longtime owner, Anthony Esposito, following its closure in May 2022. After the acquisition, Inspired filed plans for the redevelopment and secured approvals from Long Branch’s Planning Board in December 2022.
Construction of the new mixed-use building is expected to be complete by the Summer of 2024.
“While we are sad to say goodbye to such a beloved building, we are nonetheless heartened that it will begin a new chapter as an integral part of downtown Long Branch,” said Esposito. “We are happy to partner with a highly respected and accomplished local developer in Inspired by Somerset Development, which understands not just how to create a successful building, but a property that will complement the area’s existing character and add to its status as one of the most vibrant and desirable destinations on the Jersey Shore.”
