TRENTON, N.J. – Assemblyman Don Guardian, Assemblywoman Claire Swift and Assemblyman Antwan McClellan’s bill improving transportation between the Atlantic City International Airport and Atlantic City’s tourism district was signed into law this week. The measure allows the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority to enter into contracts with state transportation agencies to increase access from the airport in Egg Harbor Township to the island.
“Atlantic City boasts an efficient public transportation system and our tourism district is built with bike lanes and pedestrian walkways, but we are an island and getting here from the mainland has room for improvement. This law promotes robust, reliable and safe access from the airport to Atlantic City, which will support the CRDA’s tourism efforts and provide a better experience for visitors,” Guardian (R-Atlantic) said.
Previously, the CRDA was limited to funding projects in the tourism district or that support community development in Atlantic City. This law will allow the authority to finance highway projects or public transportation projects that increase access from the airport to the tourism district.
The tourism district consists mainly of the areas along the boardwalk and marina, including casinos, hotels and Boardwalk Hall, as well as the Atlantic City Convention Center.
“Atlantic City’s world-class entertainment and attractions drive significant tourism numbers in New Jersey. Making it easier for tourists to get here from the airport will support economic growth that benefits everyone,” Swift (R-Atlantic) said. “This new law is the first step in expanding transportation options for travelers to this area.”
The CRDA is now permitted to contract with the state Department of Transportation, New Jersey Transit, the South Jersey Transportation Authority, or the Transportation Trust Fund Authority to fund the projects.
“Ensuring our infrastructure makes it easy for tourists to stay and play is critical to New Jersey’s economy. Funding more convenient and more direct access to Atlantic City from the airport that sits 12 miles away is a smart investment,” McClellan (R-Cape May) said. “New Jersey wins when Atlantic City succeeds.”