Wildwood officials announce major security enhancements to the Boardwalk

PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD - Deputy Mayor Steve Mikulski, with Mayor Ernie Troiano, Jr. and Commissioner Krista McConnell, is pleased to announce significant security upgrades to the historic Wildwood Boardwalk.

The city is taking bold steps to enhance the safety of residents and visitors - demonstrating an unwavering commitment to protecting the city from crime and terrorism.

With this new security initiative, fixed bollards will be installed at all potential vehicular access points, and removable bollards will be placed at select access ramps. Additionally, new lighting has been installed along the entire Boardwalk, stretching from 26th Street to Burk Avenue, and state-of-the-art security cameras have been strategically positioned to maximize surveillance.

Bollards are short, sturdy posts designed to prevent vehicle access, enhance security, guide traffic and improve pedestrian safety. These barriers effectively block unauthorized vehicles from entering pedestrian areas and protect against accidental and intentional vehicle-ramming attacks.

Deputy Mayor Mikulski highlighted the close collaboration between Wildwood Police Chief Murphy and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) infrastructure Protection Unit, who have conducted regular threat and vulnerability assessments to ensure that Wildwood remains proactive in addressing security concerns.

Mikulski stated, "While we acknowledge that vulnerabilities cannot be completely eliminated, these targeted enhancements are designed to significantly deter potential threats and mitigate the impact of any incidents."

The city funded the installation of bollards at Maple Avenue and Spicer Avenue through previous street-end improvement projects in Summer 2024. Bennett Avenue should be complete before the 2025 season with Roberts Avenue (funded by UEZ) complete by Fall 2025.

The city is eyeing Wildwood Avenue, Lincoln Avenue and Spencer Avenue for street-end bollards by the start of the 2025 season with funding from the Cape May County Open Spaces program.

These efforts underscore the City of Wildwood's dedication to creating a safer environment for the millions of visitors who enjoy the iconic Boardwalk each year.