iPlay America in Freehold announced plans for a $2.5 million, 28,000 square foot expansion.
FREEHOLD - iPlay America announced Monday plans for a $2.5 million expansion that will add an additional 28,000 square feet of space to the already massive indoor theme park and event center.
The expansion - which will take place in three phases through May 2016 - will include the opening of a coffee shop, the addition of 20,000 square feet to iPlay America's event center and an 8,000 addition to the indoor theme park.
"The iPlay America experience just keeps getting better and better," Bob McDaid, CEO and founder of iPlay America, said in a release.
The first phase of the expansion has already been completed with the opening of The Grind Coffee Co., which serves hot and iced Nespresso lattes, cappuccinos and espressos, as well as teas and fresh-brewed coffees. It also carries specialty frozen treats, fresh-baked pastries, breads, muffins, grab-n-go sandwiches, salads and gluten free options as well.
The facility already features the Game Time Bar and Grill, but McDaid said the coffee shop provides new options in response to requests from customers.
The second phased of the project, called "Warehouse 100", is expected to be open in late January and will add 20,000 square feet to the existing 12,000 square foot event center. It will feature a large, multi-functional lobby for registrations, exhibit space or a banquet/cocktail area, and will accommodate up to 3,500 people. Guests will also be able to take advantage of VIP Suites, meeting breakout rooms, banquet rooms, and a large space for trade shows/exhibits.
"Our central location, quality of events, and attention to detail make this the place people want to be in," McDaid said. "We are meeting the great demand with the addition of Warehouse 100."
The final phase of the project will add 8,000 square feet to the theme park to accommodate a new Freedom Rider spinning coaster and Sky Trail, which will be the state's largest indoor high-ropes course, complete with rope bridges, zig-zag beams, cargo nets, walk-across beams and vertical rope ladders.
The third phase will also include new arcade games and food outlets.
"The spinning coaster and ropes course are great for the whole family and team-building groups, too," McDaid said. "And, of course new birthday party and team-building packages will include these new fun features."
Rob Spahr may be reached at rspahr@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TheRobSpahr. Find NJ.com on Facebook.