The City of Atlantic City has officially begun the final phase of the Atlantic Avenue Improvement Project, marking a major milestone in the much-anticipated transformation of Atlantic Avenue. This phase includes the milling and paving of Atlantic Avenue from Tennessee Avenue to Albany Avenue, along with traffic signal synchronization and additional lighting.
Construction crews have started removing concrete to prepare foundations for new light poles, which are scheduled to be installed beginning later this month. Following installation, roadway milling and paving through the heart of Atlantic City is expected to start before the end of spring. Motorists should anticipate temporary detours and modified traffic patterns along Atlantic Avenue and select adjacent side streets during construction. These adjustments will be limited to active work zones and will not impact the entire length of Atlantic Avenue at any one time.
The final phase of this project follows months of coordination and planning. The bidding process began in August 2025, with a construction contract awarded to South State, Inc. at the September City Council meeting. Since then, the City of Atlantic City, the State of New Jersey, and Atlantic City Electric have worked collaboratively to finalize a tariff agreement for the corridor’s lighting system. Under this agreement, Atlantic City Electric will assume responsibility for operations, resulting in significant long-term cost savings for Atlantic City taxpayers.
“The residents and visitors of the Great City of Atlantic City have long awaited the paving of Atlantic Avenue, and we are proud to say the finish line is now within reach,” said Mayor Marty Small, Sr. “This project is the result of a strong partnership between our city, state, and federal partners, and I look forward to the moment in the near future when I get to announce Atlantic Avenue is fully completed.”
“We are excited to begin construction on the final phase of this project,” said City Engineer Uzo Ahiarakwe. “With the preparatory work now behind us, we are well-positioned to move forward efficiently. Our team is committed to completing this project in a timely manner while minimizing disruptions for residents, businesses, and visitors.”
The Atlantic Avenue Improvement Project features a comprehensive set of upgrades designed to enhance safety, accessibility, and mobility. Improvements include traffic signal synchronization, the installation of surveillance cameras, and upgraded pedestrian infrastructure. High-visibility crosswalks, enhanced lighting, and ADA-compliant ramps will improve safety and accessibility for all users. In addition, streetscape and beautification enhancements will support economic development and further strengthen the corridor’s appeal.
The final phase of the project is valued at $17.6 Million and is funded through a $10.3 Million grant from the Federal Highway Administration, along with additional funding from the New Jersey Department of Transportation and the City of Atlantic City. The project’s initial phase, completed in 2023, included paving, restriping, lighting replacement, and traffic signal synchronization along Atlantic Avenue from Maine Avenue to Tennessee Avenue, as well as the installation of fiber and conduit extending to Albany Avenue.
In total, the Atlantic Avenue Improvement Project from Maine Avenue to Albany Avenue represents a $24.8 Million investment in Atlantic City’s infrastructure.
