The New York Times Spotlights Atlantic City’s Development Renaissance

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - Atlantic City’s development renaissance is gaining national attention.

A feature in The New York Times titled “Is It Finally Time to Buy in Atlantic City?,” highlights the city’s growing residential market and the renewed interest from developers and homebuyers who recognize the opportunities Atlantic City has to offer.

CLICK TO READ the New York Times feature

That interest is happening through continued investment in infrastructure, neighborhood improvements, public safety and economic development. The City is helping create an environment where private investment can take hold and new projects can move forward.

Mayor Marty Small, Sr. told The New York Times that Atlantic City is experiencing its biggest housing construction boom in decades, with developers and homebuyers increasingly recognizing the city's potential. He pointed to the growing list of regional and national companies investing in Atlantic City, including K. Hovnanian Homes and Kushner Companies.

As the article states, those developers have plans for nearly 500 new housing units. The projects include new townhomes along the northern beach blocks, potential residential development in the Marina District and the conversion of historic downtown commercial buildings into apartments. This is all on top of the recent announcement that bsuinessman and power broker George Norcorss and his team purchased the oceanfront site of the former Trump Plaza.

The City’s role in creating the conditions for this growth is an important part of the story. Investments in roads, beaches, seawalls and public spaces, along with continued efforts to keep the Boardwalk and casino districts clean and safe, are helping strengthen Atlantic City's appeal. Tax incentives, including federal Qualified Opportunity Zone benefits, and grants from state, federal and county partners are also helping make projects possible.

The Times also spoke with developers who see Atlantic City as a unique opportunity. Brian Zoubek, a Philadelphia-based developer with several projects underway, sees potential for new homes at prices that remain competitive with other Jersey Shore destinations. Evan Sanchez, co-founder of Authentic City Partners, highlighted the city's combination of beaches, entertainment, public transportation and multicultural community. Developer Pat Fasano, who is investing in new housing and owns a second home in Atlantic City, called the city a gem with tremendous appeal.

That appeal is extending beyond developers. The article features Philadelphia-area families who have purchased homes in Atlantic City and enjoy its beaches, restaurants, entertainment and neighborhoods throughout the year. Their experiences reflect the growing recognition that Atlantic City offers more than a traditional summer destination. It offers a coastal lifestyle with year-round amenities and opportunities.

For the Small Administration, this national attention reinforces the importance of the work underway across the city. From major infrastructure improvements and neighborhood revitalization to supporting existing businesses and welcoming new development, the focus is on building an Atlantic City where people want to do more than visit. They want to live, work, and invest here as well.

Photos by City of Atlantic City Photographer Edward Lea

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