UPDATE: The future of the long-closed Gillian’s Wonderland Pier in Ocean City, New Jersey, is looking brighter following a pivotal vote by the city council. Late Thursday night, the council voted 4-3 to allow the planning board to evaluate the site for potential rezoning, paving the way for possible redevelopment.
This vote is a crucial step towards revitalizing the beloved amusement park property, which has been under strict zoning limitations. Residents passionately voiced their opinions during public comment, underscoring the community’s strong interest in the site’s future before the vote concluded after 10 p.m.
Developer Eustace Mita, who acquired the property in 2021, has ambitious plans for a 252-room luxury hotel dubbed “Icona in Wonderland.” Mita has committed to preserving the iconic Ferris wheel and carousel, elements that hold sentimental value for many locals. However, the proposal has not been without controversy, facing opposition from some community members concerned about the impact on the boardwalk’s character.
Earlier this summer, Mita expressed willingness to sell the property after a previous rezoning vote failed in August. Now, with the planning board set to assess whether the site qualifies as “in need of rehabilitation,” the future of this cherished location hangs in the balance.
As this story develops, residents and fans of the pier are urged to stay tuned for updates. The planning board’s forthcoming evaluation could significantly influence the project’s trajectory, making this a critical moment for Ocean City.
The community’s reaction to the council’s decision is palpable, as many share hopes for a revitalized Wonderland Pier that honors its historical significance while embracing new opportunities.
Watch for further developments as Action News continues to cover this unfolding story.
