Mayor Marty Small Highlights Optimism and Progress in Atlantic City’s 2025 State of the City Address

During the 2025 State of the City address at the Metropolitan Business & Citizens Association (MBCA) Kick-Off Forecast, Mayor Marty Small, Sr. unveiled the city’s theme for the year: "Be Optimistic." Addressing an audience at Golden Nugget Atlantic City, the mayor shared updates on transformative development projects, fiscal responsibility, and initiatives aimed at enhancing the city’s safety and quality of life.

Bader Field: A Game-Changing Opportunity

Atlantic City’s ratable base is growing for the first time in a decade. Mayor Small announced a pivotal step in the redevelopment of Bader Field, with DEEM Enterprises presenting a $2.7 billion redevelopment proposal. Pending vetting by the city and the State of New Jersey, the project could bring $100 million from the sale of Bader Field and $15 million for a new community recreation center.

Additionally, the city has made significant strides in fiscal responsibility, reducing its debt by over $194 million since 2020 and saving taxpayers $474 million through budget efficiencies in the Solicitor’s Office. Mayor Small assured residents of a sixth consecutive tax reduction in 2025.

Atlantic City Aquarium and Other Key Projects

Renovations to the Atlantic City Aquarium are complete, and it will reopen to the public on March 24, 2025. Other significant projects include:

• Completion of the Lt. Governor Sheila Y. Oliver Plaza at City Hall Courtyard and the Pop Lloyd Stadium renovations by spring.
• A new dog park opening this spring at Altman Park, with another planned for later this year.
• Major roadway improvements, including Baltic Avenue and MLK Boulevard paving this spring and Atlantic Avenue upgrades by year’s end.

Safety and Cleanliness: A Safer, Greener Atlantic City

The Atlantic City Police Department reported an 8.6% decrease in crime last year, achieved through increased patrols in high-crime areas, along the Boardwalk, and throughout Atlantic and Pacific Avenues. A citywide camera project will be completed this year, further enhancing public safety.

The Fire Department will add two new vehicles to its fleet, bringing the total to eight acquired under the Small administration. Public Works is also expanding its efforts with six new Madvac vehicles, a sweeper, and upgraded snow emergency equipment. The city’s Clean Communities program will continue for the fourth year this summer.

Economic Growth and Opportunity

The launch of the city’s official new website, GreatDayAtlanticCity.com, serves as a hub to connect residents, visitors, and investors. Highlighting Atlantic City’s stories and showcasing opportunities, the website reflects the administration’s commitment to fostering growth.

The Planning and Development Department is launching a program to attract businesses to Atlantic Avenue, while $500,000 will be allocated to support small and minority-owned businesses.

Homeless Outreach Efforts

The city’s Homeless Outreach team has assisted over 300 individuals since March 2024, connecting them to essential services. Through the Hope Work Initiative, homeless individuals are employed in Public Works, and the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) office is contributing $1.8 million to reduce homelessness by 20%.

An Optimistic Vision for 2025

Mayor Small’s address painted an encouraging picture of Atlantic City’s future, driven by community investment, responsible governance, and a commitment to improving the quality of life for all. "This is a city with boundless potential," said Mayor Small. "Together, we’re building a stronger, safer, and more vibrant Atlantic City where optimism thrives."

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