From Vision to Tribute: Atlantic City Dedicates Plaza to Lt. Governor Sheila Y. Oliver

On June 5, 2025, the City of Atlantic City, in partnership with the State of New Jersey, proudly unveiled the Lt. Governor Sheila Y. Oliver Plaza—a vibrant new public space dedicated to a trailblazing leader whose legacy continues to inspire. Located just outside City Hall, the plaza honors the late Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver, a pioneering force in New Jersey politics and a champion for equity, service, and progress.

Mayor Marty Small, Sr. led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, joined by New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Jaquelyn Suarez, members of Lt. Governor Oliver’s family, and a host of City, County, and State officials. The event celebrated not only the memory of a remarkable woman but also the transformation of a vital civic space.

The unveiling marked the completion of a major renovation project that reimagines the City Hall courtyard as a more welcoming, accessible, and secure environment. For the first time since construction began in spring 2024, the main entrance to City Hall reopened—now featuring a covered walkway and a newly installed security gate that enhance both safety and convenience.

Security and accessibility were top priorities throughout the redesign. Upgrades include brighter, energy-efficient lighting with stylish lanterns, and redesigned entry points for both the public and staff. Sheila Oliver’s name now graces the walkway’s entrance in bold lettering, accompanied by her image and signage throughout the plaza—an enduring visual tribute to her leadership.

The space was also transformed aesthetically. Built-in benches, a rain garden, a marble fountain, and a pergola add elegance and comfort, while lush landscaping—new trees, shrubs, and grass—softens the urban setting and creates a peaceful gathering place for the community.

City Hall itself received a much-needed refresh. The exterior walls were power-washed and repainted, restoring the building’s original brightness and contributing to the renewed atmosphere of the complex.

To support foot traffic and make the area more walkable, the courtyard’s pedestrian paths were widened, improving accessibility for residents, employees, and visitors alike. Adjacent to the plaza, the City Hall parking lot was also resurfaced and redesigned, featuring a new parking attendant booth at the South Carolina Avenue entrance for smoother vehicle flow.

Looking to the future, Atlantic City is incorporating sustainability into its vision. Six electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are set to be installed later this month—bringing clean energy infrastructure directly to the heart of the city.

The Lt. Governor Sheila Y. Oliver Plaza is more than a space—it’s a symbol of transformation, remembrance, and civic pride. It stands as a testament to a leader who broke barriers and a city that continues to evolve with purpose and heart.

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