Wildwood Boardwalk Reconstruction Update – Jan 2024
It’s been three months since the Wildwood Boardwalk Reconstruction project started and things are moving much faster than anticipated. Fred Schiavone and his crew have been moving in lighting speed, leaving people to believe that they will be done for early Spring.
The Wildwood Video Archive stopped by last week to film an update on the boardwalk. You can watch that at the bottom of this article.
Wildwood Boardwalk Reconstruction Update – Jan 2024
On Monday, October 9, 2023, the Wildwoods Boardwalk Reconstruction project phases II, IV, and V, officially kicked off, spanning the stretch between Oak Avenue and Spicer Avenue.
Phase III will concentrate on the restoration of the boardwalk stretch between Oak Avenue and Schellenger Avenue, a segment constructed in 2015. This phase necessitates the meticulous extraction of the existing IPE decking to unveil the glulam framing beneath. Addressing indications of wood rot, the glulam stringers and girders will undergo essential timber repairs.
This approach differs in that it doesn’t require dismantling the boardwalk; instead, it focuses on renovating the foundation. The upper sections were temporarily set aside and then repositioned, maintaining the appearance unchanged for visitors. However, significant replacements were carried out beneath the primary decking.
Moving on to Phase IV, the focus shifts to the Cedar Avenue Connector segment of the boardwalk, spanning East to West. This phase encompasses a thorough initiative, involving the complete dismantling and elimination of the current boardwalk and substructure, making way for the establishment of a new boardwalk.
Moreover, it involves the partial removal of the cantilevered concrete slab on the north side of the boardwalk and the elimination of two existing light poles. Phase IV also introduces new enhancements, including a striking archway sign, railings, perforated metal fencing, bike racks, light poles, and more, enriching the boardwalk experience with a modern touch.
Phase V mirrors the processes of Phases I and II, involving the extraction of concrete tram pads, addressing any deficiencies, and installing a new wooden surface.
Since October, the majority of Phase III has been successfully finished, except a single section at Cedar that required replacement.
At the Cedar connection, construction teams are currently installing 2x6s to establish a level surface for the placement of 2x4s. Following the laying of 2x4s, the crews can proceed to add lights, railings, and bike racks.
Phase V recently witnessed the installation of its primary decking, with the concrete and structural work already completed.
Progress appears to be swift, likely accelerated by the limited number of snow days experienced this winter.
Below is the Wildwood Video Archive’s latest update on the boardwalk, including shots from the seagull (drone).
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