Opening a business can be daunting, not to mention costly, given costs for rent, utilities, wages, insurance, construction and other necessities. But a recently opened Long Beach eatery tapped into two PSEG Long Island programs to help make opening day a reality for owner Catherine Schimenti.
A two-time James Beard Award finalist and pastry chef, Schimenti launched Baked by the Ocean. The space once housed a hardware store before it was destroyed by Hurricane Sandy, and sat vacant for nearly six years.
Now, Baked by the Ocean is a welcoming destination. The shop, which opened two months ago, features pastiries, macrons, cakes and specialty breads and other delectable.
It was two PSEG-LI programs – the Main Street Revitalization Program, which provided a $25,000 grant, and the Vacant Space Revival Program, which offered electric bill discounts – that helped Schimenti realize her dream of opening her business.
The Main Street Revitalization Program offers grants for investment projects – interior renovation, facade and streetscape improvements and other endeavors – that would boost a business district’s economic stability and growth.
The Vacant Space Revival Program, with its electric bill discounts to businesses moving into commercial spaces, are offered when companies move into spaces that have been vacant for more than a year. The program aims to eliminate vacant spaces, which can diminish a district’s economic vitality.
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With the assistance, Schimenti renovated the space with a new sprinkler system, energy efficient windows, a new energy efficient air conditioner, and state-of-the-art equipment.
Noting that the region thrives on small business, John Keating, PSEG-LI’s manager of economic development, said that the two programs “help small business owners like Catherine Schimenti get a head start toward a successful future in our downtowns,” he added. “It is a win-win for all.”
Schimenti, who has roots in Long Beach, shared that sentiment.
“I’ve dedicated my whole life to cooking, and it only seemed right to open my new shop in Long Beach,” she said in a statement.
“The community of small business owners is amazing to be a part of,” she added. “I am beyond grateful that the community and PSEG Long Island have recognized how much love and effort I have put towards Baked by the Ocean.”
