CRDA Approves Further Efforts to Bring Tourists to Atlantic City

With the goal of attracting new tourists in mind, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority today gave the thumbs up to several measures designed to do just that. 

The Board approved a resolution which will allow the Cordish Company to develop a 70,000 square foot building on Atlantic Avenue, bordered by Christopher Columbus Boulevard and Mississippi Avenue for the occupancy by Bass Pro Shops.  Bass Pros Shops has 58 locations in 32 states, including two in Canada.  A location in Atlantic City would be the first one in New Jersey and the only location of its kind within a three-hour drive.

"Governor Christie has the vision to re-imagine Atlantic City," said John Palmieri, CRDA Executive Director.  "With his support, we are able to attract the number one outdoor retailer in the world.  This is exactly the type of development and investment needed."

The board also approved a preliminary determination of project eligibility to fund capital improvements to the Atlantic City Boardwalk.  The improvements would be completed in several phases, with the first being a seawall from Oriental Avenue to Atlantic Avenue.  The Army Corps of Engineers will fund 65 percent of the $10 million project while the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection will fund 75 percent of the $3.5 million balance.  The city is asking that the CRDA provide the local match of $875,000 needed while providing the survey and design services.

Margaritaville at Resorts received its project approval and fund reservation for $12.5 million along with the final site plan approval for the Margaritaville Landshark Bar and Grill.

The CRDA also received approvals to move forward with other projects which include the Second Annual Atlantic City International Triathlon, a marketing expansion project with the Greater Atlantic City Golf Association and a year-long leadership program called LEAD Atlantic City Tomorrow.