Ocean City Completes Eight-Block Boardwalk Reconstruction With $4.9M State Grant

Ocean City wrapped up a $4.2 million rebuild of eight blocks along its boardwalk, stretching from St. Charles Place to Fifth Street. A $4.9 million state grant from the Boardwalk Preservation Fund covered most expenses.

Workers installed fresh wood decking made of southern yellow pine. They also built a new support foundation, put in railings, and added ramps. Mayor Jay Gillian told residents the entire 2.5-mile stretch now welcomes walkers, bikers, and joggers.

"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," Gillian wrote, according to the Cape May County Herald.

New lights arrive on May 6. Platforms sit ready for crews to install them.

This rebuild represents one piece of a two-phase, $7 million makeover happening this year. Work shifted to a second section between 12th Street and 14th Street, set to finish before Memorial Day weekend. A third section will get attention between 14th and 16th streets once summer ends.

Construction workers from L. Feriozzi Concrete Co. took over the 12th to 14th Street area. Fences separate their work zone from paths where pedestrians and cyclists can still pass through.

"We're a seashore resort. It's our golden gem. It's our Central Park," said Gillian, according to OCNJ Daily, about the structure's role as a gathering place.

The beachfront promenade draws thousands each year. People come for shopping, rides, dining, and recreation. Police cars, fire engines, public works trucks, and vehicles used in parades must cross it.

Ten years back, the city finished reconstruction from Fifth Street to 12th Street at a cost exceeding $10 million. Combined with what's happening now, the walkway will be brand new from St. Charles Place to 14th Street.

In 2024, then-Gov. Phil Murphy announced a $100 million fund to help communities rebuild their boardwalks. Wildwood got more than $8 million. North Wildwood received more than $10 million. Asbury Park and Atlantic City each took home $20 million.

Winds, salt water, and beach sand wear down the structure. Wood planks need replacement to handle heavy foot traffic and bikes moving along the oceanfront promenade.

"It's safe and clean. That is our motto here in Ocean City. We take care of our infrastructure. We want to make sure the experience is the best it can possibly be," Gillian said.