Longport Restores Historic Beach Patrol Station and Museum

Longport is in the final stages of restoring one of its most recognizable historic structures: the former Beach Patrol Station and Museum at 24th Street and Atlantic Avenue. The century-old building, which once served as a U.S. Coast Guard station, is undergoing structural repairs designed to preserve its original character while addressing long-standing maintenance issues.

The project reflects Longport’s ongoing commitment to protecting its historic assets and ensuring they remain safe and accessible for future generations.

A Landmark With Deep Roots in Longport History

Originally constructed in 1907, the building has played multiple roles over the decades, including service as a Coast Guard station and later as a local museum highlighting Longport’s maritime past. Its location near the beach has made it both a community landmark and a challenging structure to maintain due to constant exposure to coastal conditions.

The building is listed on both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places, which requires any restoration work to meet strict preservation standards.

Scope of the Restoration Work

The Longport Public Library, which operates the museum in partnership with the Longport Historical Society, awarded a $134,000 contract for the restoration. Work began in early December and includes:

• Replacement of a main structural support beam

• Repairs to rotted wood and exterior railings

• Roof repairs and repainting

• Structural stabilization to protect the building envelope

All work is being performed by a contractor certified in historic restoration to ensure original design elements are preserved.

Oversight and Preservation Standards

Engineers from Remington & Vernick are overseeing the project alongside library leadership to ensure the repairs align with historic preservation requirements. Materials and construction techniques are being carefully selected to match the building’s original appearance as closely as possible.

Library officials emphasized that the goal is not modernization, but stabilization—keeping the structure intact while honoring its historic significance.

Timeline for Reopening

Construction is expected to conclude in early January 2026. Once the work is complete and final inspections are finished, the museum will reopen to the public.

Funding for the project comes from the Longport Public Library’s capital improvement fund, allowing the work to proceed without additional taxpayer assessments.

Why This Matters to the Longport Community

Historic structures like the Beach Patrol Station serve as physical reminders of Longport’s coastal heritage. Preserving them helps maintain a sense of continuity in a town where much of the built environment has evolved over time.

For residents and visitors alike, the restored museum will continue to offer a window into Longport’s maritime history in a setting that feels authentic and grounded in place.

What to Expect Next

Once reopened, the museum will resume regular hours and educational programming. The Longport Public Library and Historical Society plan to share updates on reopening details through official channels.

Common Questions

Is the building being altered or expanded?
No. The project focuses on repairs and stabilization only.

Will the museum look different after restoration?
The goal is for it to look the same—just safer and structurally sound.

Who funded the project?
The work is funded through the Longport Public Library’s capital improvement fund.

Sources: Longport Public Library; Downbeach BUZZ