I’m happy to report that we reopened the north end of the Boardwalk this afternoon. We now have a brand-new structure — from sand to railings — from St. Charles Place to Fifth Street, and the full length of the Boardwalk is back open to everyone. This work was funded mostly by a $4.9 million grant.
We’re still waiting on the delivery of new lights. They will be here on May 6. I want to thank everyone for their patience during construction. These maintenance and replacement projects are necessary to ensure that everyone can enjoy all that Ocean City has to offer for generations to come.
We’re still working on a separate project to reinforce the Boardwalk from 12th Street to 14th Street, but pedestrians and bikes will be able to pass through at all times, and access to all storefronts will remain open.
Pecks Beach Village has always been an important part of Ocean City, and I was proud to join Ocean City Housing Authority Chairman Bobby Barr, Executive Director Ron Miller, Assemblyman Antwan McClellan, Rev. Gregory Johnson and others to break ground on 60 new homes for Ocean City families.
These new affordable-housing units on Fourth Street will match the rest of the neighborhood, and that was one of the most important things that I asked when this project was designed.
In Ocean City, we always take care of each other. I remember when Superstorm Sandy hit, Pecks Beach families were scattered everywhere. I said I don’t want to hear any excuses. We’re getting these families back in their homes. That started a positive relationship with the Pecks Beach residents and the Housing Authority that continues today.
The city was a partner in building Speitel Commons and renovating Bayview Manor on West Avenue. We were able to provide 32 new units for seniors who used to live in Pecks Beach and to fix up the homes of the residents of Bayview Manor.
I look forward to seeing these new homes take shape. Ocean City is always a success story when we work together as a team.
Ocean City Finance Director Frank Donato made a presentation to City Council on the proposed 2026 municipal budget last night. Slides and information from the presentation are available here: 2026 Municipal Budget Presentation. Video of the presentation is here. City Council is expected to “introduce” the budget on April 23, and a potential public hearing and final vote on the budget is expected to be on May 21. Municipal budgets, audits and financial documents are always available at ocnj.us/finance.
The Ocean City Dog Park reopened today with a new pavilion, fencing, equipment for dogs, electrical outlets and other amenities. Outside the fences, we’re still planning to pave the parking lot and add benches and planters. Please excuse our appearance while we work to complete this last phase of the renovation.
The Cape May County Municipal Utilities Authority on Wednesday discovered a sinkhole on 46th Street near West Avenue. The roadway will be closed while they make an emergency repair to the damaged outfall pipeline that caused the collapse. Local access will be maintained. Please use caution in the area while the repair is underway.
The first of two Great Egg Hunts on the Boardwalk is scheduled for 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. The event invites children up to age 7 to visit more than 50 stores with their families to collect eggs filled with toys, treats and prizes. The second Great Egg Hunt is scheduled for April 4.
Children are also invited to visit with the Easter Bunny from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday at Mark Soifer Park (9th Street and Asbury Avenue). The Easter Bunny will be back in the park during the same hours on Saturday, April 4, and then up at the Music Pier from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Easter Sunday.
Check out this week’s edition of the “Inside City Hall” video series below to get a behind-the-scenes look at news, events, services and projects in Ocean City, including the boardwalk reopening, beach preparations, Fire Department training, the Pecks Beach groundbreaking, and a swimming meet for the new Ocean City Storm age-group team.
I hope you all have a great weekend.
Warm regards,
Jay A. Gillian Mayor
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Welcome to The City of Ocean City, New Jersey!
Ocean City is a town rich in history and a deep sense of community. Families have been vacationing in Ocean City for generations and many have made Ocean City their year-round home.
Our residents enjoy award-winning schools, world-class recreation facilities and outstanding municipal services from all city departments, including Police, Fire and Rescue, and Beach Patrol. Residents participate in activities for every age and interest including the cultural arts, music and theater as well as sports and recreation programs available at our many parks, playgrounds and city facilities. One of our local treasures is the Ocean City Community Center at 1735 Simpson Avenue, where families and individuals can enjoy the Ocean City Free Public Library, Ocean City Arts Center, Ocean City Historical Museum, Ocean City Aquatic and Fitness Center, and the Howard S. Stainton Senior Center under one roof.
The city also maintains and operates a municipal airport, 12-hole golf course, Aquatic and Fitness Center as well as the famed Ocean City Pops Orchestra.
Ocean City is also host to more than 200 family-friendly special events held year-round. Many of our events are popular family traditions, including the Night in Venice Boat Parade in July, the Baby Parade in August, our mile-long block parties in May and October, and our family-friendly First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration.
If you are vacationing in Ocean City, I know you’ll enjoy our seven miles of beautiful beaches and exciting Boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants and amusements. And be sure to visit our unique and charming downtown shops and restaurants located in the heart of town on Asbury Avenue.
I am truly proud to serve as mayor for this great community and hope you and your family enjoy your time in America’s Greatest Family Resort.
Pecks Beach Village has always been an important part of Ocean City, and I was proud to join Ocean City Housing Authority Chairman Bobby Barr, Executive Director Ron Miller, Assemblyman Antwan McClellan, Rev. Gregory Johnson and others to break ground on 60 new homes for Ocean City families.
Welcome to The City of Ocean City, New Jersey!