The Whitechapel Projects Receives Approval by Long Branch Planning Board

Developer Preston Casertano to begin construction of emerging arts and entertainment destination.

On Aug 20, 2014

Developer and property owner Preston Casertano today announced the approval of the first phase of development of The Whitechapel Projects by the Planning Board of the City of Long Branch.  Setting in motion an 18-month construction undertaking, the consent will allow Casertano to begin the strategic conversion of the now vacant 14,500-square-foot, pre-World War I warehouse that is located at 15 to 17 Second Avenue in Long Branch into a sustainable and inclusive destination where people can enliven their senses through food and drink, live music, art and entertainment.

Building upon his overall mission to revive and renew both the architectural detail of the existing structure and the downtown Broadway corridor of the City of Long Branch, Casertano will employ eco-friendly initiatives at The Whitechapel Projects to create an engaging venue that encompasses a nano-brewery; restaurant; beer garden; transformative event space; and art gallery driven by innovative muralists and emerging artists.  The venue will also spotlight the seasonal bounty of a roof-top garden that will be accessible for the public’s enjoyment.

“Our goal for The Whitechapel Projects is to present the foundation for a truly remarkable gathering space where community members and guests alike savor house-made cuisine and an ever-changing nano-beer selection, while enjoying an amazing schedule of year-round events, art and entertainment.  Budding with opportunity, Long Branch is poised for growth and development, and is the perfect location to support a progressive destination like The Whitechapel Projects,” commented Casertano.

The restaurant at The Whitechapel Projects will be led by executive chef James Mignola, former executive chef at Pigalle in Manhattan and at The Tewksbury Inn in Oldwick, New Jersey.   Head brewer Michael Dolan will lead the innovation of the in-house brewing process that promises to include rotating selections of small-batch beer.  In addition to Mignola and Dolan, Casertano has assembled a creative team that boasts Brooklyn-based talents including David Cunningham Architecture Planning, Mabu Design’s Matt Burgermaster, RAFT Landscape Architecture and Brooklyn Grange, as well as the branding and communications agency M studio of Asbury Park, New Jersey, to bring his vision for The Whitechapel Projects to fruition.  The venue’s carefully considered design and forthcoming branding and visual identity will support Casertano’s mission of creating a destination unlike any other in the region.

Now approved, the first phase of development of The Whitechapel Projects will allow for the construction of the courtyard, brewery, beer hall, kitchen, community hall and art gallery.  Elements including landscaping, the beer garden, and the roof-top garden will be addressed following the completion of the initial phase of development.

The Whitechapel Projects will make use of a municipal parking lot that sits adjacent to the space.  With the addition of a much-needed, progressive restaurant and bar, as well as the revolving schedule of cutting-edge art and entertainment, Casertano anticipates business development, increased foot traffic to and from the beach, and a heightened local economy following the launch of The Whitechapel Projects.

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