In what has become known as New Jersey’s City by the Sea, Kushner announced on Sept. 10 that it appointed Pierson Commercial as the exclusive retail leasing agent for Pier Village, a year-round oceanfront residential, commercial and recreational destination in Long Branch.

Situated along 2,000 feet of prime Jersey Shore oceanfront, Pier Village attracts more than 2.3 million annual visitors and encompasses 170,000 square feet of retail, 492 luxury apartment rentals, 245 upscale condominiums and 91 hotel rooms.

Kushner, owner of Pier Village as well as nearby Monmouth Mall, is credited with achieving strong, stabilized occupancy rates that exceed 98% across Pier Village’s apartment homes.

The new phase of Pier Village, completed just this summer, features the addition of more than 50,000 square feet of retail, which already includes Salt Steakhouse, Hot Mess Studio, Baked Bear and Boardwalk Fun & Games Arcade.

In addition to the retail component, it also includes 245 luxury condominiums – 80% of which were pre-sold – and the modern Wave Resort.

According to Pierson Commercial Director Ryan Starkman, the Pierson/Kushner team is focused on taking an extremely successful retail and mixed-use development to the next level by focusing on the lease-up opportunities of this new phase of modern retail.

“Pier Village has become a bustling ‘South Beach-Style’ town center,” said Starkman, who is spearheading the leasing assignment. “It is the epicenter for dining, shopping, entertainment, hospitality and living.”

In addition to offering a beach vibe during the summer months, Pier Village is a year-round live/work/play destination. Top attractions include the boardwalk Carousel, which opened in 2019; the Ice Rink at the Pier during the winter; Boardwalk Fun ‘N Games Arcade and the Spring Kite Festival, among others. Ongoing events include wine tastings, holiday celebrations, farmer’s markets, movies and concerts at the pier.

“We are excited to add Pierson Commercial as the retail leasing specialists to our best-in-class team,” said Kushner Principal Nicole Kushner Meyer. “The Shops at Pier Village are coming alive and we are proud to welcome a diverse group of new retailers, restaurants and service providers to the neighborhood.”