A Safety Message from Wildwood Police - July 4th Weekend

As we prepare to finally enter the beginning of our summer season, with the 4th of July Holiday weekend, and celebrate our Nation's Independence, we wanted to take a moment to provide our residents and visitors with some additional information regarding planned enhancements to public safety.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Wildwood's lifeblood; tourism, has been greatly and adversely impacted . This coupled with the increased acceptance of social disorder across the Nation has challenged the "Family" environment we've come to love and enjoy every summer. Therefore, I have implemented several additional enforcement measures in an effort to enhance public safety within our community. The City of Wildwood Commissioners have recently relaxed the restrictions of our "Open Display" Ordinance. This was done in an effort to help our licensed liquor establishments by providing them the ability to permit the consumption of alcohol in the area immediately adjacent to their buildings. However, anyone found consuming alcoholic beverages separated from these establishments, will be found to be in violation of our Ordinance and a local ordinance summons will be issued. If you intend to partake in the consumption of alcoholic beverages at one of our many establishments, please do not drink and drive. There are many other options available, such as Taxi's, Uber, Lyft, and the Five Mile Beach Trolly service. Please be sure to take advantage of these services should you choose to consume alcoholic beverages. Additionally, we will as always, continue to strictly enforce violations of the Controlled Dangerous Substance Act. Specifically targeting those that are found to be in the possession of and/or under the influence of Marijuana. Further, smoking of any kind on the beaches and boardwalk to include; cigarettes, cigars, pipes, vapes, etc. is strictly prohibited and our officers will take action. Lastly, the increasing incidents of disorderly conduct will be targeted and stringently enforced.

We have increased the number of officers assigned to our foot, bicycle, K-9 and vehicle patrols within the City of Wildwood, especially on our boardwalk. Our intent is to ensure that the residents and visitors of this great City, have the opportunity to experience all that Wildwood has to offer. Our bathing beaches, boardwalk, amusement rides and water parks, arcades, stores and eateries, so that you can make a positive and lasting memory to remember for years to come.

During these troubling times of the COVID pandemic, we encourage everyone to ensure for your own personal safety. Please maintain social distancing, wash your hands frequently, utilize hand sanitizer and wear a mask. While masks may not be required, they are strongly and respectfully encouraged.

It is my sincere hope that you all stay safe and have an enjoyable holiday weekend with your family and friends in the City of Wildwood!

Robert N. Regalbuto, Chief of Police

4400 NEW JERSEY AVENUE

WILDWOOD, NEW JERSEY 08260

PHONE 609-522-0222