Atlantic City’s historic James Candy Co. building could become a $20 million arts hub with artist lofts, galleries, studios, affordable housing and preserved taffy factory heritage for visitors.
WEBDESK – HAJIRA IRFAN – NJNEWSLINE
A building that once filled Atlantic City’s Boardwalk with the aroma of freshly made saltwater taffy could soon inspire visitors in an entirely different way. Instead of producing candy, the historic James Candy Co. factory is being considered for a $20 million transformation into a vibrant arts destination—one designed to celebrate creativity while preserving one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. If approved, the project could breathe new life into a property that has long been part of Atlantic City’s rich history.
Historic Landmark Could Begin a New Chapter
The redevelopment proposal centers on the former James Candy Co. Building at 1519 Boardwalk, where developer Pat Fasano hopes to create Taffy Lofts a mixed-use space combining artist residences, creative studios and public attractions.
Located in Atlantic City’s Orange Loop district, the project is designed to revive a long-vacant property while contributing to the city’s growing arts and cultural scene. Rather than replacing the building’s identity, the proposal focuses on giving it a meaningful new purpose that reflects both its past and its future.
Visitors Would Experience Art Beyond the Gallery Walls
The vision goes far beyond a traditional art gallery. Plans include nearly 12,000 square feet of publicly accessible arts space, allowing visitors to walk through galleries, purchase original artwork and watch artists create pieces inside working studios through specially designed viewing panels.
A coffee shop is also planned, giving residents and tourists another reason to stop by the Boardwalk destination. By combining exhibitions with live demonstrations, developers hope the building becomes an interactive experience where visitors can connect directly with artists and their creative process.
Live-Work Lofts Designed for Creative Professionals
The upper floors would be converted into artist loft apartments that combine living space with professional studios, creating an environment where artists can both live and work under one roof.
According to the proposal, about 80% of the residential units would be reserved for artists, while the remaining 20% would provide affordable housing. Developers believe the spacious layout and industrial design will attract creative professionals looking for larger workspaces that are difficult to find elsewhere in South Jersey.
Preserving the Factory’s Sweet Legacy
While the building’s purpose may change, its history is expected to remain at the heart of the redevelopment.
The proposal calls for preserving many of the factory’s original industrial features, including its 16-foot ceilings and oversized garage-door openings. Vintage candy-making equipment, copper kettles, historic posters and other memorabilia could also become permanent displays, allowing visitors to experience the site’s rich saltwater taffy heritage while exploring its new artistic identity.
More Than $20 Million Planned for the Project
The redevelopment is expected to cost more than $20 million, including design and financing expenses, while construction alone is estimated at roughly $15 million.
Fasano has applied for financial assistance through New Jersey’s Aspire Program to help move the project forward. The development team also includes the Atlantic City Arts Foundation, architect Bill McLees of Somers Point and Mike Weatherby of Weatherby Construction, all working together to bring the vision to life.
A Vision That Blends History With Atlantic City’s Future
Supporters of the proposal believe projects like this can do more than restore historic buildings they can strengthen local neighborhoods, encourage tourism and create opportunities for emerging artists. By combining public art, housing and heritage preservation in one location, the redevelopment aims to give both residents and visitors a reason to return throughout the year.
If approved, the Taffy Lofts project could become much more than another redevelopment. It has the potential to transform a forgotten piece of Atlantic City’s Boardwalk into a destination where history is preserved, local artists are supported and visitors can experience creativity firsthand. By giving a beloved landmark a meaningful new purpose while honoring its iconic past, the project could become a symbol of how Atlantic City continues to reinvent itself without losing the history that makes it unique.
