Locals, Tourists React To New Plan For Atlantic City [POLL]

Following the approval of the Atlantic City Tourism District Master Plan, locals and tourists shared their opinions on the new strategy to revive the struggling resort.

The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority said the plan aims to revitalize Atlantic City and the region with a new course for economic growth, job creation and prosperity. Upon completion, according to the firms involved in the plan, the resort would become cleaner, greener and more appealing.

Barbara McDonald, who visits from New York at least once a year, said any change would be very welcome.

"Especially cleaning up the boardwalk and making it seem less seedy," she added. "That hasn't changed over the years very much."

The plan mentioned an uninterrupted Boardwalk entertainment zone from Connecticut Avenue to Albany Avenue, filled with pedestrian activities, interactive entertainment, corporate pavilions and art installations.

Another New Yorker warned the city can not become a better place without added security. She said she only travels the streets of Atlantic City during the day when crowds of people are present.

To make visitors feel more comfortable, a recommendation would ask business owners on Atlantic and Pacific Avenues to get rid of their steel doors and gates, which they would use at closing time.

Merchants did not seem to enjoy the idea.

Jiten Ray at Late Night Liquor on Atlantic Avenue said there is no way he would do away with the automatic steel door.

"Police can not watch 24 hours. Somebody, meanwhile, has the time to break the (glass) door, and anything can happen," he continued.

The store's steel door was stuck one night, so Ray slept on the premises, in case anyone attempted to get inside.

Audrey Hart of Miss Audrey's Human Connection said she wouldn't comply with the recommendation because her store has a foyer beyond the gates, which could be used by folks looking for somewhere to sleep at night.

However, Hart said she'd consider the change if the CRDA promised grant money for façade improvements.

Atlantic City residents applauded the plan. Their main concern was making sure work begins sooner than later.