WILDWOOD AWARDED $2.3 MILLION GRANT FOR BOARDWALK CONNECTOR PROJECT
- City of Wildwood
- 24 hours ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 hours ago
Project timeline not yet defined. View Rendering Here:
WILDWOOD, NJ – After years of planning and collaboration, the City of Wildwood has secured a $2.3 million grant from the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) to fully fund the Boardwalk-Pacific Avenue Pedestrian Connector project. Developed in partnership with the Wildwood Business Improvement District (WBID), this initiative will significantly improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in the heart of Wildwood.
In addition to the NJDOT funding, an extra $66,000 was awarded through USDA Rural Development grants, secured by Triad Associates. WBID also contributed by matching $22,500 in funding and covering more than $100,000 in application fees. Altogether, the project received approximately $2.4 million in combined state and federal support.
The project will create a safe, welcoming, and fully ADA-compliant pedestrian corridor linking the Boardwalk to Pacific Avenue's dining, retail, and entertainment district at Byrne Plaza - a key community gathering space. Planned improvements include new decorative sidewalks, ADA curb ramps, updated lighting, enhanced landscaping, stormwater drainage, and new street furniture and signage to boost both safety and the overall visitor experience.
“This project is truly transformational,” said Mike Zumpino, CEO of Triad Associates – the grant writer. “It will safely connect hundreds of thousands of visitors traveling through this vital corridor. We’re proud to have helped the City and WBID secure this grant funding, which by leveraging State (NJDOT) construction & Federal (USDA) planning/design dollars, saves local taxpayers.”
“Making this key corridor safer and more accessible for all will support the longevity and strength of Wildwood and ensure that residents and visitors alike can better connect to some of the local businesses that help make it a prized destination,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “I am committed to making long-term investments in the health of our state’s Shore communities and beloved boardwalks.”
“The New Jersey Department of Transportation is committed to investing in projects that make our communities safer and more accessible for everyone,” said NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor. “This grant will provide ADA-compliant ramps, improve lighting, and enhance the sidewalks leading to Wildwood’s Boardwalk, making an already popular destination even more desirable for visitors.”
Mayor Ernie Troiano, Jr. stated, “I’ve lived here long enough to remember when Pacific Avenue was the heartbeat of Wildwood’s music and nightlife scene. Reconnecting our Boardwalk to the downtown has been a longtime goal of mine. This project is a critical step in bringing energy and opportunity back to the Avenue in conjunction with the effects of the Pacific Avenue Redevelopment Project.”
John Donio, President of the Wildwood Business Improvement District, highlighted the economic and strategic impact of the connector. “This project is a major win for Wildwood’s business district. Creating a safe, welcoming pedestrian corridor between Byrne Plaza and the Boardwalk will drive foot traffic, support local businesses, and elevate the visitor experience across the island.”
Wildwood is a vacation resort situated on a five-mile barrier island in Cape May County, New Jersey. It is best known for its wide, sandy beaches, historic Sightseer Tram Car – “Watch the Tram Car Please!” – and almost 2-mile boardwalk. Neighboring Wildwood Crest, West Wildwood, North Wildwood, and near to Diamond Beach, the year-round population hovers around 5,157. Summer crowds swell to 250,000 with annual visitation in the millions. Originally incorporated in 1912, Wildwood’s rich history includes early inhabitation from the Lenni Lenape Indians, to being center stage in the 1950’s burgeoning music scene, and to the recent redevelopment of historic Pacific Avenue and the Back Bay. For more information, visit www.wildwoodnj.org.
The Wildwood Business Improvement District (WBID) is a private, non-profit management corporation focused on the revitalization and promotion of Downtown Wildwood, New Jersey. Encompassing the area from 26th Avenue to Cresse Avenue, and from the Boardwalk to New Jersey Avenue, WBID implements programs and events designed to attract visitors, support local businesses, and enhance the downtown experience. Notable initiatives include the development of Byrne Plaza, a 60,000-square-foot outdoor event space that hosts a variety of community events throughout the year. For more information, visit www.dooww.com.
Triad Associates of Vineland, NJ, is a community and economic development firm that has secured over $1.7 billion in funding for its clients since 1978. Through its comprehensive suite of services, Triad supports projects that improve public rights-of-way/infrastructure, public services and community spaces, foster neighborhood revitalization & sustainable economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for all. Triad's mission is to grow communities and help them thrive by turning visions into reality. Learn more at www.triadincorporated.com.
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