Five-Mile Mayors Give Updates on Plans

WILDWOOD ─  “I’ve watched this island grow considerably,” Wildwood Mayor Ernie Troiano said April 11, to about 90 who make up the business and tourism community of the Wildwoods. 
The deceptively quiet months (October-April) swarm with life behind the scenes, preparing the island for its debut on Memorial Day Weekend.
Wildwood
Troiano and North Wildwood Mayor Patrick Rosenello testified plans are in place to increase the Wildwoods as a year-round community.
The event, hosted by the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce at the Blue Water Grille, brought three of the four island mayors who gave their vision and perspective on their respective municipalities.
Troiano, born and raised in Wildwood, seeks to make the city an affordable place to live for young professionals, especially police and firefighters.
“I want our kids to be here,” Troiano said. Troiano and fellow commissioners want affordable housing for those working for and in the city.
Park rehabilitation and developing the bayside compose part of the city’s ongoing master plan. New businesses, such as Dollar General and Mud-Hen Brewery, will provide shopping and gathering places.
Troiano said the city continues its search for an approximately $60 million to repair the iconic Boardwalk, a major cog in the island’s tourism machine.
“The boardwalk is in dire need of replacement,” Troiano said. However, work may not begin until 2019 and may require two phases of reconstruction.
Troiano also organized a group he calls “the mayor’s brain trust,” individuals who contribute ideas for Park Boulevard and helping the downtown.
A homeless shelter in Wildwood is out of the question, according to Troiano. In light of the recent dispute, Troiano said he will aid Wildwood’s homeless but wishes the county would address the larger crisis.
Wildwood Crest
The island’s newest official is Mayor Don Cabrera of Wildwood Crest. Along with Commissioners Joyce Gould and David Thompson, they oversee borough government.
Cabrera assured that “no crazy changes” would occur in the borough. The borough will further its newly redefined identity with a variety of projects and initiatives, he said.
“We’re (Crest) all about parks and recreation,” Cabrera said. Expanding upon a “fit-friendly” theme, the borough is developing its parks and public spaces, such as Sunset Lake Park.
“It’s a good market to be in,” Cabrera added.
A Wellness Committee will aid the borough in its quest, offering events for borough staff and residents. The newly appointed Green Team will assist in beautifying the Crest with trees and natural plantings.
Redeveloping New Jersey Avenue into a shopping and dining destination glimmers on the horizon, though work will not begin until 2021 when the road is reconstructed.
“This isn’t going to happen overnight,” said Cabrera.
A vision for the former library building is also underway and a new borough website.
North Wildwood
Changes to the landscape will soon appear in North Wildwood, according to Mayor Patrick Rosenello.
Due to damage from nor’easters, the iconic seawall will extend farther along with repairs to the dune system.
Seaport Pier, on the city’s Boardwalk, is undergoing a transformation into a seaside destination. With a swim club, restaurant, up-scale coffee bar, and bicycle parking, Seaport Pier is designed to “elongate” the tourist season. Joseph Byrne, of JB Richards Construction LLC, is project manager.
Rosenello said he was not certain of the grand opening date, but expects the pier’s opening shortly.
Rosenello and North Wildwood City Council desire families to settle in North Wildwood and be raised in a safe community, equipped with amenities and a growing economy.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.