Construction has broken ground on a three-story rental building at 665 Second Avenue in Long Branch, New Jersey. Designed by Minno & Wasko Architects and Planners and developed by Inspired by Somerset Development, the structure will yield 22 apartments, an indoor parking garage with electric vehicle charging stations, and 800 square feet of retail space.

Before demolition, Inkwell Coffee House occupied the site since the 1960s. The cafe and late night event space was frequented by Bruce Springsteen in his youth, and became a historic destination for local residents. The business closed last year when the owner decided to retire.

“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.”

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