For the past 50 years, the New Jersey Business & Industry Association has used its New Good Neighbor Awards to recognize the state’s most outstanding building projects. Projects are evaluated in terms of architectural merit, community involvement and their economic benefit to the community (including job creation). From hundreds of projects, the American Hotel here in Freehold was chosen as a 2010 award winner. We’re proud of the role T&K Contractors played in working with architect Michael V. Testa and owner Steven Goldberg to design and then restore and modernize this classic hotel.
Originally built as a thriving stage coach stop in 1824, the American’s last overnight guest checked out in 1970 and the property suffered a fire and was eventually abandoned. To create a “new” hotel that would blend seamlessly with the downtown, please modern guests, and still stay true to the American’s rich past, we drew inspiration from old postcards, library books and items found in the hotel. Old-timers from Freehold also shared their memories of the hotel and the colorful part it had played in local history.
Once the designs were complete, T&K marshaled master craftsmen, electricians, plumbers and construction workers. In 10 months, serving as both builder and mechanical contractor, T&K transformed the original 40 guestrooms into 20 luxury suites, demolished the destroyed western side of the hotel and built an all-new restaurant, bar, spa, and meeting facilities.
For T&K president Anthony Cammallere, this was an extremely rewarding project. “I was so proud to be able to give the American Hotel back to our community after all these years,” he said. “We employed about 100 people on the job, and the hotel will continue to offer residents 100 jobs. We blended the best of the old with the best of what’s new. For me, this project is what remodeling and renovation are all about. I’m honored – through the American – to have become a small part of Freehold history myself.”
Photos courtesy the American Hotel
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Federal Energy Tax Credits for Homeowners
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The Federal Energy Tax Credit legislation granting you a 30% tax credit off the cost of certain energy improvements made in 2009 and 2010 – up to $1,500 – runs out at the end of this year.
If you haven't already, take advantage of these credits, lower your taxes and your energy bills. Give us a call and we can help you determine what energy-saving, tax-credit-eligible home improvements would be best for you. Remember, the qualifying home improvement must be in place before the end of the year. Call today!
