Wildwood’s Mayor Resigns

The Wildwood Video Archive was off this past week as our team was on vacation after another fantastic summer. While away, it was announced that Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron, announced that he would be resigning.

In a heartfelt announcement that has left the coastal community of Wildwood, New Jersey in a state of reflection, Mayor Pete Byron revealed his resignation, effective Thursday, September 21, 2023.

The news was delivered with a mix of sorrow and optimism, as Deputy Mayor Krista Fitzsimons steps in to take the helm of the vibrant coastal city.

Mayor Byron, a stalwart figure in Wildwood’s local government, has spent the past 12 years tirelessly serving the community. His tenure has been marked by significant improvements to public spaces and ambitious projects that have reshaped the city’s landscape.

One of the standout initiatives undertaken during Mayor Byron’s leadership is the Pacific Avenue Redevelopment Project. This ambitious undertaking sought to breathe new life into the historic downtown area, transforming it into a bustling hub for commerce and housing.

Spanning 56 blocks along the Pacific Avenue corridor, from Cresse Avenue to 26th Avenue, this revitalization effort has been nothing short of a transformation.

Equally noteworthy has been the “Back Bay” Project, focused on landfill remediation.

Working in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), the city is on track to complete dredging, capping, and closing the landfill by 2024. This reclamation of seven acres, with the potential for more, is set to open doors to fresh opportunities for development.

Wildwood’s iconic Boardwalk, a symbol of the city’s enduring charm, hasn’t been forgotten either. The Boardwalk renovation project, backed by state funding, has seen substantial progress under Mayor Byron’s guidance, with half of this historic landmark meticulously rebuilt at a cost of eight million dollars to date.

Mayor Byron’s legacy also includes a remarkable growth in beach revenue, from a modest $7,000 to an impressive $534,000 over his 12-year tenure.

This remarkable achievement underscores his commitment to not only preserving Wildwood’s natural beauty but also ensuring its economic vitality.

For residents, families, and their four-legged companions, Mayor Byron’s dedication is palpable through the major refurbishment of city parks, the establishment of a dog park, and the revitalization of the Byrne Recreation Center.

In Mayor Byron’s own words, “Though I may not be at City Hall, I am still available to help with issues and will be happy to continue to assist my hometown of Wildwood in any way possible. For now, I will focus on being the best dad and grandfather to my loving family.”

The void left by Mayor Byron’s departure is undoubtedly significant, but it’s met with confidence in Deputy Mayor Krista Fitzsimons, who is poised to continue the progress he initiated.

As Wildwood adapts to this transition, Mayor Byron‘s dedication to the city remains an enduring testament to the potential of community leaders to transform their surroundings for the better.

Also See: Exit Zero Bids Farewell to Cape May Ferry Terminal