New CRDA Leader Outlines Goals For AC Tourism District [AUDIO]

Charged with running the Atlantic City tourism district, the new Casino Reinvestment Development Authority leader outlines his plans for revitalizing the nation's second-largest gaming resort.

While he's only been on the job for a month, CRDA executive director John Palmieri says one of the first things he wants to tackle is marketing.

Speaking at an Atlantic City Hotel and Lodging Association lunch at the Golden Nugget, Palmieri says, "We need to promote all of the positive things in this city, all the entertainment venues, the casino industry, Atlantic City still has a lot to offer."

By February 1st, 2012, Palmieri says a team of consultants will have completed a master plan of short term goals that over the next 5 or 10 years will help bring much-needed revenue into the city and help revitalize its image.

"What should we be doing to create a better transportation system, how do we enhance security, what about those vacant lots?"

He highlighted the city's "Walk," an area of over 100 shops and restaurants and said it was a great start. "You know I haven't been down here in awhile and to see that, its a great revenue source for the city, but there are empty parking lots and things we need to improve."

Palmieri also plans to focus on commercial and residential growth, airport expansion and non-gaming revenue. "Looking for growth in other sectors, doing more to market the city as a place for other visitation beyond gaming is all central to what we're going to do to make this city a better place to live and work."

Palmieri headed up redevelopment efforts in Boston, Hartford Connecticut and Providence, Rhode Island, but is a New Jersey native from Hoboken. The event was his first public appearance since Governor Christie made the annoucement he was the new leader back in October.

"I look foward to working with all of you to make Atlantic City be the best it can be" Palmieri told the crowd.