BY CHRISTINE BARCIA
Staff Writer
FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP – Plans for expansion are underway at iPlay America.
The Schanck Road, Freehold Township, indoor amusement park is in the midst of a $2.5 million expansion that is anticipated for completion in May, according to an iPlay America press release.
Jessica Schwartz, iPlay America vice president of sales and marketing, said the entertainment center opened on Nov. 11, 2011, and “the focal point was families and birthday parties.”
“After five years, we have added a lot of things. This is the next step,” Schwartz said of the business’s expansion.
Phase one of the expansion plan was completed in December when The Grind Coffee Shop opened inside iPlay America.
“We added a coffee shop after surveying what our Saturday and Sunday guests wanted. The top thing people were asking for was coffee,” Schwartz said.
The addition of The Grind Coffee Shop gives guests the opportunity to not only purchase hot and cold coffee, but it also offers healthier food items, Schwartz said.
“In addition to Game Time Bar and Grill inside iPlay America, we like to give our guests a variety of food options to enjoy when they are with us,” said Bob McDaid, iPlay America chief executive officer and founder.
Phase two of the expansion plan will add 20,000 square feet of space to iPlay America’s event center. This space, named Warehouse 100, can accommodate 3,500 guests, according to the press release.
Warehouse 100, which is planned to be in full use by the end of February, will attract “trade shows, conventions, larger concerts, higher scale corporate events and expos,” Schwartz said.
“This year, a huge initiative to do for more for businesses is in place,” Schwartz said.
She said iPlay America is established as a family operation and is now breaking into corporate events more aggressively.
“Since we opened, iPlay America’s meeting spaces have been sought after by companies, organizations, social groups and families for large celebrations. We are meeting the great demand with the addition of Warehouse 100,” McDaid said.
Phase three of the expansion plan is an 8,000-square-foot addition to accommodate the new Freedom Rider spinning coaster and the largest indoor high-ropes course in New Jersey.
“The spinning coaster and ropes course are great for the whole family and team-building groups, too. And, of course new birthday party and team-building packages will include these new fun features,” McDaid said.
He said the phase three addition will include new arcade games and food outlets.
Phase three of the expansion plan is set for completion in late May, according to Schwartz.
