Norcross Outlines Plan to Transform Atlantic City Into Family Hub
George Norcross has proposed a strategic vision to reposition Atlantic City as a primary family resort destination. His plan emphasizes the need for improved public safety, upgraded infrastructure, and the removal of abandoned structures along the boardwalk.
What happened
Norcross outlined his ideas during an interview shared by Down Beach Buzz, arguing that the city must undergo significant transformation to compete with neighboring communities. He pointed to nearby towns such as Ventnor, Margate, Ocean City, and Brigantine, noting that they already enjoy flourishing family activity and high demand for real estate despite sharing the same beach and ocean. According to Norcross, Atlantic City must execute a clear strategy involving leadership and responsibility to capture similar success.
Central to his proposal is the revitalization of the boardwalk and Pacific Avenue. He suggested that Pacific Avenue should be developed into a main thoroughfare similar to the Las Vegas Strip. To support this, he called for a strong police presence on the boardwalk to address public perception of safety issues, even if the city is not inherently dangerous. He also advocated for the removal of old, abandoned buildings that contribute to a run-down appearance. Norcross emphasized that public safety and public schools are essential components for reviving any community.
Infrastructure upgrades are another key element of his plan. Norcross stated that the convention center requires a major renovation and should be led by the state. He argued that the current location off the boardwalk was a mistake. Regarding entertainment venues, he noted that Boardwalk Hall is too small for large concerts and too expensive for smaller events. He proposed creating a shared entertainment district at the foot of the Atlantic City Expressway, where casinos and the convention center could collaborate. He also questioned the value of beach entertainment running until early morning hours.
Norcross, who grew up at the Jersey Shore, recently purchased the former Trump Plaza property from Carl Icahn. He observed that Icahn had abandoned the site, leaving it in poor condition. He expects casino executives from MGM and Hard Rock to show strong interest in the city’s resurgence, and he hopes Caesars will join them. He believes that billions of dollars spent in recent years failed to produce a true family resort, and this new strategic approach aims to correct that.
What it means for travelers
Travelers may see changes in the boardwalk area as abandoned buildings are removed and police presence increases. The development of Pacific Avenue into a major road could alter traffic patterns and pedestrian flow in the city center. Upgrades to the convention center and the creation of a shared entertainment district could provide new venues for events and concerts. The potential closure or adjustment of late-night beach entertainment might affect evening activities for visitors.
Key details
- Norcross wants the boardwalk to have a stronger police presence to improve safety perceptions.
- Pacific Avenue should be transformed into a main road similar to the Las Vegas Strip.
- The convention center needs a major upgrade led by the state and should not remain off the boardwalk.
- Boardwalk Hall is considered too small for major concerts and too costly for smaller events.
- Norcross recently bought the former Trump Plaza property from Carl Icahn.
- He suggests an entertainment district at the foot of the Atlantic City Expressway for shared use by casinos and the convention center.
- He questions the value of beach entertainment that runs until 3 or 4 a.m.
