An exuberant and commanding presence anchoring Asbury Park's boardwalk, the Convention Hall and Paramount Theater are colorful and grandiose both in structure and in spirit. The complex is an eclectic melange of Italian and French designs with detailing in several different architectural styles incorporating nautical motifs.

The prominent New York City firm of Warren and Wetmore, architects of Grand Central Terminal, designed the Asbury Park Convention Hall and Paramount Theater complex, which was built between 1928 and 1930. As a civic project, the complex was an ambitious effort by Asbury Park to assert and maintain its preeminence as the urban resort along the northern New Jersey shore. The sprawling structure--including a theater, exhibition hall, and an arcade lined with shops and amusements--is a unique and early oceanfront mixed-use complex. In its lively past, the complex has served as the venue for Army and Navy training during World War II and big band dances during the war era.

In critical need of repair, the seaside structure has recently benefited from the restoration and reopening of the Paramount Theater. The complex also has a new roof. The grant will fund restoration of the water tower, a prominent architectural feature capping the structure, replacement of about 100 windows surrounding the exhibition hall, re-plastering and painting of the theater and exhibition hall, and upgrading the theater's interior features.

For more information, visit: www.asburyparkconventionhall.com