Crest’s Proposed Pacific Avenue Median Referendum Has Support, Opposition

WILDWOOD CREST ─ Wildwood Crest voters will decide the fate of the Pacific Avenue Median project Jan. 26.
With strong opinions on both sides, every vote will count as a voice in a display of democracy in action. Due to a petition signed by many Crest residents, the project had to go to a vote. Special elections in the state, as determined by law, must be held on Jan. 26.
If the referendum is voted through, the approximate cost of the project will be $500,000. During a special public meeting Dec. 4, Michael Hawthorne, who opposes the project, said “We are the most beautiful town on the island already,” and also stated that borough funds could be spent elsewhere.
Resident Eileen Kennedy suggested that the borough administration attend to repairing various streets in the Crest.
Those in favor of the project pointed out improved safety and aesthetic values if the medians are installed. The public forum concluded with the decision to bring the matter to a vote; in the words of Commissioner Joyce Gould, who cast votes against the project, “It’s the people’s choice. It’s that simple.”
In a recent telephone interview, Mayor Carl Groon gave a few statements concerning his hopes for the proposed project.
“What remains the most important is safety,” Groon began. “I believe it will have a calming effect.” Groon reiterated how the Department of Public Safety and other borough professionals agree on the safety measures the medians will bring.
In response to the remarks that Pacific Avenue is a business district, Groon said, “It is not a business district. The north end needs attention.” Groon wishes to “build neighborhoods instead of highways.”
By converting Pacific Avenue to a two-lane instead of a four street, Groon believes medians will “help all aspects of our environment.”
Groon confessed that he was “disappointed” by misinformation that has arisen, namely that the project cost is over $2 million. Groon assured Crest residents that the board is “trying to lower the number” and that a “long-range capital plan” is in place.
Groon concluded by saying that he and Commissioner Don Cabrera “will be in the building all day” before the Jan. 26 vote. Groon urged all residents to visit borough hall to ask questions.
In another phone interview, Hawthorne stated his reasons for opposing the median project.
“We are already $38 million in debt,” Hawthorne said. “It will be beautiful, no doubt about that,” Hawthorne added, but still holds to his position that the cost will only add to the borough’s debt.
Hawthorne pointed to the flooding issue on Pacific Avenue, saying that water levels sometimes force motorists to the middle of the road. “Nowhere to go” described Hawthorne’s belief median interference during such weather conditions.
Hawthorne believes borough funds should be directed at correcting the issue. A Facebook page has been created by residents not in favor of the project as well.
Gould said, “I was never comfortable with the project.” However, Gould believes that the coming vote shows “government at its best.”
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.