WILDWOOD – This winter, Wildwood’s historic and famed boardwalk is once again undergoing a transformation with three distinct rehabilitation projects a.k.a. Phases III, IV, and V. This marks a significant step towards enhancing the iconic boardwalk experience for residents and visitors alike.
Cedar Ave Boardwalk Reconstruction:
The Cedar Ave portion takes center stage with a complete replacement, featuring a brand-new timber-framed boardwalk. The timber piles and framing are now complete, with the decking currently in the installation phase. Cedar Ave renovations will also include new signage parallel to the gateway. The City is working to secure new lighting from Schellenger to Cedar on the boardwalk.
Oak to Schellenger Ave Repairs:
The stretch from Oak to Schellenger Ave is in the final stages, with 90% of the deteriorated timber framing repairs completed. The remaining section is awaiting delivery of materials, which are expected on-site within the next week.
Schellenger to Spicer Ave Rehabilitation:
For the Oak to Spicer Ave portion, rehabilitation includes extensive work on the existing concrete substructure, featuring concrete repairs and a fresh protective coating. A completely new timber-framed superstructure and decking are also part of this revitalization effort.
Progress across all three areas is on track, with construction scheduled for completion at the beginning of May. This extends the recently completed boardwalk renovations from 26th Ave down to Spicer Ave. Future phases are currently in the planning stage.
Street End Improvements and ADA Access Ramps:
The city has also awarded a contract for Street End Improvements and ADA access ramps at Spicer and Maple avenues. This comprehensive project includes beautification and functional upgrades to existing ramps and street ends.
Expect new sidewalks, landscape gardens, benches, bike racks, pedestrian access tunnels under the boardwalk, and ADA access ramps on the ocean side of the boardwalk. The project recently began and is expected to conclude in June.
Governor Murphy has played a pivotal role in the reconstruction of the boardwalk over the past three years; he signed New Jersey’s $100 Million Boardwalk Preservation Fund into law earlier this year.
As of today (Feb. 29), the State of New Jersey has contributed $12 million ($4 million in the State Budget for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024). The U.S. Economic Development Administration granted $3.2 million. The City of Wildwood has matched up to $5,950,000.00.
The primary boardwalk work is being done by Fred M. Schiavone Construction, who has completed phases of the construction in prior years.
