Wildwoods Construction Update – May 2025 – New Restaurants
We’ve officially entered that exciting stretch of the year where the countdown to Memorial Day Weekend is in full swing.
With just a few short weeks left until the unofficial start of summer, the Wildwoods are buzzing—not just with early visitors and spring events, but with the sounds of saws, drills, and heavy machinery.
Across the island, from North Wildwood to Wildwood Crest, construction crews are working around the clock to open new businesses and complete road work.
Whether you’re a year-round local keeping an eye on the changes, a seasonal homeowner returning to the shore, or a vacationer planning your trip, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes to get the island summer-ready.
This is our longest Wildwoods Construction Update video we’ve done this year. You can watch the video tour at the bottom of this article.
Usually, we ask for your suggestions on these updates, but since we’re so close to Memorial Day Weekend, we loaded this one up with plenty of news.
Grassy Sound Fishing Pier
The old Grassy Sound bridge, which was turned into a fishing pier decades ago, is getting some tender love and care. During the off-season, crews demolished the old pier and replaced it with a stronger one.
Speaking with the crews, we learned the original pier pilings—which date back to when it was a bridge—were rotted through, which is why the county started this project.
The plan is to have the new pier open by the end of May or early June.
North Wildwood – NJ Ave Road Change
North Wildwood Road Work + Speed Change
There has been a MAJOR change to the roads in North Wildwood.
Regarding speed limits, as soon as you make that bend into the island, the speed limit is 25 mph. The same applies when leaving the island. It doesn’t increase to 40 mph until you pass the bend on the way out.
The roads between Walnut Ave and 5th Ave on New Jersey Ave have also changed. This used to be a four-lane road (two lanes in each direction).
Crews removed two lanes, creating one lane per direction and installed a middle turning lane.
Visitors will also no longer be able to turn onto Olde New Jersey Ave while traveling north on New Jersey Ave. That section has been closed off for safety.
While the video below discusses these changes, you can watch a more comprehensive tour by clicking the link below.
North Wildwood’s Road Diet Almost Complete – First Look
Antney’s Grub & Creamery – New Location
Antney’s Grub is expanding with a second location. While their original spot at 333 East Montgomery Ave in Wildwood remains open, they are adding a new location at 120 New Jersey Ave in North Wildwood.
Their menu won’t change much, and they’ll still be serving their world-famous meatballs and pork.
North Wildwood’s Chateau Bleu Meets the Wrecking Ball
Chateau Bleu Motel – Demolition Underway
Crews have been slowly demolishing this historic landmark in North Wildwood.
Located at 911 Surf Ave, the Doo-Wop motel is being replaced by three single-family homes. (Yeah, this one still hurts.)
New North Wildwood Boardwalk Ramp
The project is complete—the new ramp now connects the boardwalk to the beach and includes an extended bike path accessible from 22nd Street, providing easier access for both cyclists and beachgoers.
Carlo’s Pizza and the Little Giant Market
Two familiar names are returning to town—yes, two!
The iconic Little Giant Market is making a comeback, but with a twist. Carlo’s Pizza is revamping the space into a hybrid concept: part market, part pizza shop (and more!).
Here’s the best part—Carlo’s Pizza may be based in Atlanta, but it has deep roots right here in North Wildwood. Remember Johnny’s Pizza, which used to be just across the street? The same family—and the same beloved pizza recipe—are behind this new venture.
And they’re not stopping at pizza. The shop will also be stocked with fresh ingredients and grocery essentials, perfect for anyone looking to cook while on vacation.
It’s a little slice of nostalgia with a whole lot of flavor, coming soon to Surf Avenue!
Hassles Ice Cream New Location
Hassles Ice Cream is expanding with a second location opening soon at 21st Street and New Jersey Avenue.
Taking over the former golf cart rental spot, the new shop will be serving up even more sweet treats just in time for summer.
The Rook Wildwood
The old Goodnight Irene’s location is getting a brand-new identity. Soon to be known as The Rook, this upcoming venue is bringing fresh energy to the downtown scene.
From the owners of The Rook Manayunk, we can expect the menu to head our way with a Jersey Shore twist.
Exterior renovations are moving along quickly, hinting at what could become one of this summer’s most talked-about hangouts.
The WVA stopped by The Rook to film a construction tour—check out that video by clicking the link below.
Sabbia D’oro Italiano
Located at 3401 Pacific Ave, this former home of The Cove has been under construction for the past few months.
It’s being opened by the same team who runs Sapore Italiano in Cape May, NJ.
Sandy Boots Saloon
The Sandy Boots Saloon is currently being developed at 219 E Lincoln Ave, taking over the spot where the historic Harbor Inn once stood.
Work has progressed rapidly over the past few weeks. We saw the new sign hung, new pavers installed, and the outdoor bar being built.
From what we can see through the windows, the inside looks amazing with a great theme.
Windward Motel Renovations
The Windward Motel was once destroyed by fire, and many thought it wouldn’t come back. Fast forward a few years, and now the building is being fully renovated to remain a motel.
No word yet on the new name, but as soon as we get details, we’ll share them with you.
With all this activity happening across the island, it’s clear the Wildwoods are gearing up for an unforgettable summer season.
Whether you’re here for the food, the beach, or just to soak up the lively atmosphere, there’s plenty to look forward to.
Stay tuned for more updates as these exciting projects progress — and get ready to enjoy all the new flavors and experiences coming your way!
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