Wildwood Boardwalk Approved for Expansion

The Wildwood Boardwalk is set to grow this year—physically.

While many are aware of the extensive construction efforts currently underway to rebuild and refurbish sections of the Wildwood Boardwalk, this new project is entirely separate from the ongoing reconstruction.

The current project, known as the Wildwood Boardwalk Reconstruction Project, involves tearing down the boardwalk down to its supports, repairing the concrete foundations, constructing the top boardwalk, and installing new railings and lighting. This initiative has been ongoing for several years and is now in its sixth phase.

According to Steve Mikulski, the Commissioner of Public Safety in Wildwood, “Boardwalk Phase 6 is progressing exceptionally well and is at least on schedule and within budget. The framing and decking from Spicer Ave. to Robert Ave. are done.”

Wildwood Boardwalk Size

This new initiative, however, is called the Wildwood Boardwalk Expansion Project.

The Wildwood Boardwalk Expansion Project will add an additional 14 feet to the ocean-facing side of the boardwalk, providing visitors with more room to stroll, relax, and enjoy the sights.

As highlighted in a video featured at the bottom of this article, the Wildwood Boardwalk currently has two distinct widths. Measurements taken from Google Earth show that the northern section of the boardwalk (north of Oak Ave.) is approximately 60 feet wide, while the southern section (south of Schellenger Ave.) narrows to about 44 feet.

The city aims to expand the narrower southern section to alleviate crowding, especially during popular events like Friday night fireworks. During these events, the ocean-side end often becomes congested with spectators, while normal foot traffic and tramcars continue to operate, creating a crowded experience. The expansion is expected to significantly ease this issue.

Steve Mikulski confirmed the project’s approval in a statement to the Wildwood Video Archive, saying, “We also received approval for the 14-foot extension project via the State CAFRA Program,” and noted that the city hopes to complete the expansion by this summer. The Board of Commissioners’ (BOC) final approval is scheduled for January 22, 2025.

While the full project looks to expand the full section from Schellenger to Cresse, we will only see the expansion from Roberts to Montgomery Aves. This part of the project is already underway,

Additional Redevelopment Upgrades

The redevelopment will also include the following enhancements:

Installation of new wood piling support structures
Addition of timber framing and new decking
Construction of stairs leading to the beach
Installation of updated railings and lighting
Creation of pavilions to serve as gathering spaces and rest areas

Once completed, the expanded boardwalk will not only improve visitor experiences but also continue Wildwood’s tradition of blending nostalgia with modern improvements, making it a premier destination for generations to come.

The WVA will be sure to include this project in our Wildwoods monthly construction project video, so be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel.