BARNEGAT – On a clear day, you could climb to the second level of the pavilion at Barnegat’s Municipal Docks and see Old Barney, the Barnegat Lighthouse, across the bay. Since June, however, that view has been out of reach. Local officials discovered structural issues with the pavilion, leading to the closure of the second floor. The steps were taped off for safety and will hopefully be open again by next summer.
The two-story structure has been a favorite spot for families and friends for generations. People gathered there to watch boats, enjoy the shade or share some special romantic moments. The pavilion holds many memories of peaceful afternoons and community celebrations.
Despite concerns, Barnegat Township officials have confirmed that the pavilion will not be torn down but instead undergo repairs. Township Engineer Kurt Otto said that he is working through an engineering forensic analysis to determine what needs to be rehabilitated.
“An architect who looks at the structure will determine more or less of a design and written report as to what needs to be replaced,” said Otto.” Then, we have to put it out to bid.”
Otto said the repairs are necessary due to age-related deterioration, including rotted wood and outdated hardware. The project should be completed by the summer of 2025. Cost estimates range from approximately $120,000 to $160,000.
Research into the pavilion’s early history uncovered few written records. However, the municipal clerk and a representative from the Barnegat Historical Society provided photographs of the structure from years past. Giovanni Rawley, a 2021 graduate of Barnegat High School, also contributed to the history, sharing his collection of local memorabilia, which includes postcards showing the structure’s appearance over several decades.
The pavilion appears to have been a fixture at the Barnegat Municipal Dock since at least the 1930s. It has been more than a simple structure by the water and holds a special place in the hearts of many residents who grew up spending their days at the docks.
Adults who are now grandparents recall running up and down the wooden steps of the pavilion as children and enjoying the cool breeze from the bay. One of Rawley’s colorized postcards shows a crowd of people dressed in 60s apparel. The postcard also shows the pavilion with a red roof in contrast to dark one on the current structure.
Over the years, the dock has been a favorite spot for fishing, crabbing, and community events, including boat races, fireworks display, and baby parades during Fourth of July celebrations. Sightseeing from the top of the pavilion added a sense of adventure for those who appreciated the birds-eye view.
The structure has undergone multiple renovations, including repairs in the 1970s and a complete rebuild in the 1980s and additional repairs in the early 2000s. It has weathered storms, including Superstorm Sandy, and has remained a cherished part of Barnegat’s waterfront.
Township Administrator Martin Lisella, who officiated a wedding at the pavilion when he was deputy mayor said the backdrop of the Barnegat Bay is perfect for photos of the bridal party.
“The view from the second floor was beautiful,” he said. “We want to keep as much of the original structure as possible. We know it’s an important part of history to the community.”
While the second floor remains closed, officials have already reopened the first floor for public use.
