Iconic Jersey Shore Boardwalk Could Close Early This Summer

WILDWOOD, NJ — Beachgoers won't be allowed on the Wildwood Boardwalk late at night this summer if a proposed ordinance passes.

City officials are proposing to close the Boardwalk from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. this summer, according to a news release.

The measure serves as part of the city's "continued commitment to public safety and quality of life," officials said.

Jersey Shore towns have struggled with large, unruly crowds over the past several years. Last year, Wildwood put a teen curfew in place in response. Read more: Teen Curfew To Be Strictly Enforced In Jersey Shore Town This Summer

“These hours are designed to limit late-night crowds and support a welcoming friendly atmosphere for everyone to enjoy the best of our Boardwalk.,” said Steve Mikulski, Deputy Mayor and Commissioner of Public Safety. “We fully support our Boardwalk businesses. This is not about limiting business activity, it’s about preventing loitering, large gatherings, and the types of behavior that tend to occur after hours.”

The city said that "this measure is intended to maintain a safe, well-managed environment while allowing legitimate business operations to continue."

Signage will be installed along the Boardwalk, and enforcement will be carried out by the Wildwood Police Department.