NORTH WILDWOOD ─ Condominium owner Dennis Stahl, of East 24-25th Avenue, is seeking an answer and a solution regarding Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access to the beach at 25th Avenue.
Stahl, representing the needs of his business, wrote a letter to North Wildwood City Council regarding the ongoing issue of no access. In the letter, Stahl asked for assistance in finding an answer.
According to Stahl, officials have suggested going to the Morey Organization of Morey’s Piers and reaching some agreement.
“I don’t believe Morey’s Pier is the answer,” Stahl said June 6. Stahl and associates have looked into possibly installing a ramp under the Boardwalk, but were told such a ramp would violate environmental regulations.
Due to the city’s beach replenishment project, constructing a ramp is not possible at this time.
When presented with Stahl’s concerns, Mayor Patrick Rosenello gave a more detailed explanation regarding the ADA access at 25th Avenue.
First, the dune at the site was damaged during spring nor’easters; however, the dune will be pushed back to create more beach.
Second, a building at the street end, along with electrical and stormwater infrastructure, prevents the construction of a ramp.
“It is physically impossible at 25th to have a ramp,” Rosenello told Stahl. Looking under the Boardwalk is an option, but would require additional time.
Third, Rosenello told the Herald June 11 that the city would like to provide such access at every point along the Boardwalk, but such a project must wait until a thorough Boardwalk reconstruction.
When asked when a reconstruction might take place, Rosenello replied, “It’s on our (city) radar.”
Discussions for reconstruction continue in North Wildwood and in Wildwood. City officials in North Wildwood expect to take a “block-by -block” approach, spanning a period of time.
“We will look into it (access),” Rosenello said, emphasizing that the city supports a ramp at 25th, but must consider all factors while seeking a solution.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.
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