Wildwood Boardwalk Adds Major Security Upgrades
In a significant move to bolster safety and security, Deputy Mayor Steve Mikulski, along with Mayor Ernie Troiano, Jr. and Commissioner Krista McConnell, announced comprehensive security upgrades to the historic Wildwood Boardwalk.
The city is making bold strides to protect both residents and visitors from potential threats, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding against crime and terrorism.
Wildwood Boardwalk Adds Major Security Upgrades
As part of this new security initiative, the City of Wildwood will be installing fixed bollards at all key vehicular access points along the Boardwalk.
Removable bollards will also be placed at select access ramps to offer flexible and effective barriers when needed. These upgrades are designed to enhance public safety, prevent unauthorized vehicle access, and protect pedestrians from the risk of vehicle-related incidents.
In addition to the bollards, the city has installed new lighting along the entire stretch of the Boardwalk, from 26th Street to Burke Avenue.
This lighting upgrade ensures improved visibility and deterrence of criminal activity, enhancing safety during both day and night.
State-of-the-art security cameras have been strategically positioned throughout the area to maximize surveillance, helping local law enforcement monitor and respond to potential threats quickly.
What Are Bollards?
Bollards are short, sturdy posts that are primarily designed to prevent vehicles from entering pedestrian zones, guide traffic, and improve overall safety.
They serve as a barrier, stopping vehicles from potentially causing harm to pedestrians in busy areas.
Bollards are especially effective in preventing vehicle-ramming attacks, either accidental or intentional, offering an added layer of protection for those enjoying the Boardwalk.
Deputy Mayor Mikulski credited the close collaboration between local law enforcement, including Chief Murphy, and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) Infrastructure Protection Unit, for their regular threat and vulnerability assessments.
These assessments have played a crucial role in identifying areas that need attention, ensuring that Wildwood remains proactive in addressing potential security risks.
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While acknowledging that complete elimination of vulnerabilities is not possible, Mikulski expressed confidence that these targeted enhancements will significantly reduce the likelihood of incidents and mitigate any potential damage.
He emphasized that the city’s efforts are not just about reacting to threats, but actively preventing them from arising in the first place.
The City of Wildwood has already made significant progress in its security upgrade initiatives.
Bollards have been successfully installed at key locations, including Maple Avenue and Spicer Avenue, as part of the 2024 street-end improvement projects.
The installation at Bennett Avenue is expected to be completed before the start of the 2025 season, while work at Robert Avenue, funded by the Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ), is scheduled for completion by Fall 2025.
Looking ahead, the city is planning to install additional bollards at critical access points along Wildwood Avenue, Lincoln Avenue, and Spencer Avenue, with the goal of having these enhancements in place by the beginning of the 2025 season.
Funding for these projects will come from the Cape May County Open Spaces program.
With these security upgrades, Wildwood is not only preserving its rich history but also preparing for a future where safety and enjoyment go hand in hand.