I think Ocean Grove will always be a fine place, but the expectations that folks have for this town cannot be taken for granted. For those who live here and for many such as yourself who like to visit, most hope that the special spirit and “charm” which you describe will be retained.
I used to interview people who were new to town, and I would ask them what attracted them to Ocean Grove. Most said that they “fell in love” with the Grove the day they first came here. Most referenced the quiet spiritual atmosphere, the history and amazing architecture, and the friendly people, among other qualities that set it apart from other shore towns.
In season it can be a magical place, especially at night with kids enjoying safety and freedom, families walking together under the stars, wonderful live music, strolling on the boards, watching the moon reflect on the ocean, and experiencing the porch culture which favors socializing and conversation. More and more are enjoying the chance to stroll over to A.Park and experience another world.
In short, the quality of life here is very special.
So, to whatever extent those fine qualities become compromised by congestion, worsening parking issues, condoization, commercialization, disregard of State standards, and exploitation by developers and politicians, then the appeal of the town will diminish.
It would be easy for the desirable qualities to gradually slip-slide away—-unless the citizens pay attention.
I would hope that it would be worth the fight to keep a beautiful friendly place balanced and not overdeveloped. Also that the public officials follow the law and what people want of them.
I don’t live in Ocean Grove but I visit as often as I can and I hope it keeps the charm that is a great reason to visit along with the wonderful people that live there
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Ocean Grove: a really cute small town at the Jersey Shore.
Anna: Thank you for your thoughtful summary.
I think Ocean Grove will always be a fine place, but the expectations that folks have for this town cannot be taken for granted. For those who live here and for many such as yourself who like to visit, most hope that the special spirit and “charm” which you describe will be retained.
I used to interview people who were new to town, and I would ask them what attracted them to Ocean Grove. Most said that they “fell in love” with the Grove the day they first came here. Most referenced the quiet spiritual atmosphere, the history and amazing architecture, and the friendly people, among other qualities that set it apart from other shore towns.
In season it can be a magical place, especially at night with kids enjoying safety and freedom, families walking together under the stars, wonderful live music, strolling on the boards, watching the moon reflect on the ocean, and experiencing the porch culture which favors socializing and conversation. More and more are enjoying the chance to stroll over to A.Park and experience another world.
In short, the quality of life here is very special.
So, to whatever extent those fine qualities become compromised by congestion, worsening parking issues, condoization, commercialization, disregard of State standards, and exploitation by developers and politicians, then the appeal of the town will diminish.
It would be easy for the desirable qualities to gradually slip-slide away—-unless the citizens pay attention.
I would hope that it would be worth the fight to keep a beautiful friendly place balanced and not overdeveloped. Also that the public officials follow the law and what people want of them.
I don’t live in Ocean Grove but I visit as often as I can and I hope it keeps the charm that is a great reason to visit along with the wonderful people that live there