NJ Town Ponders Public Topless Beach

ASBURY PARK, N.J. - A town made famous by Bruce Springsteen may get some more attention, as Asbury Park's council considers to proposal to allow topless bathing in a one-block area.

Reggie Flimlin, an Asbury Park yoga studio owner, asked council to consider her idea to allow women to decide for themselves whether they want to wear tops on a section of the beach.

But unlike other nude beaches in New Jersey, the beach would be a public facility.

The City Council is now considering Flimlin's to use is a block-long area at the city's Eighth Avenue beach.

Flimlin says it would respect women's right to decide for themselves if they want to wear tops.

Councilwoman Sue Henderson told the Asbury Park Press the close proximity of the boardwalk creates legal concerns.

"I have no problem with people expressing themselves," Henderson said. "I'm keeping an open mind."

Council will consider the measure at a July 7 public meeting.