By Steffen Klenk
There has been much interest surrounding the now shuttered Wonderland Pier in Ocean City. The site, owned by ICONA, is slated to be transformed into a seven and a half story, 252-room hotel. Aptly named ‘Icona in Wonderland’, the property would pay tribute to the former amusement park owned by the Gillian family, complete with the iconic Ferris wheel and carousel. According to Icona owner Eustace Mita, the project is estimated to cost $155 million and would be one of the largest investments along the Jersey Shore.
On Monday, Nov. 25, members of the public gathered at the Ocean City Library Lecture Hall for an open discussion on the project, held by Third Ward Councilman Jody Levchuk. “We’re all here with open minds and open hearts” the councilman said. “My number one priority is to listen to the constituents.”
Icona operates several beachfront resort properties throughout Cape May County, alongside restaurants and meeting space. “This is a site that I am very passionate about.” Mita spoke about his upbringing in Ocean City as a resident and husband, raising five children only blocks from the beach, even sharing some of his own personal memories. “My first ride was on the wet boats.”
Mita discussed his vision for the property, which would include an underground parking garage, arcade, and indoor pool, along with potential shopping and retail opportunities and seasonal entertainment. Additionally, Icona in Wonderland would invest in restoring the carousel, and for the Ferris wheel to be moved and elevated. The iconic wet boats would also be kept on-site.
According to Mita, the hotel would support the city’s growing tourism and resort industry. Residents were given an opportunity to share their thoughts on the proposal. Several residents voiced their support for the project, citing the need for more hotel rooms. “I’ve seen it all” said Norma Lee Linforth, lifelong Ocean City resident. “I have calls coming from friends who say they would love a place to bring their whole family.”
Others highlighted potential adverse effects from the project, including concerns about traffic, dwindling amusement options, and the lack of available sunlight along historic neighborhoods like Plaza Place.
Several groups, including Save Wonderland, have been calling on the site to be preserved as an amusement destination, advocating against potential zoning changes. Helen Struckman, founder of the non-profit and Ocean City resident, spoke at the meeting. “If (Icona) goes through, the entire boardwalk area can become open to hotel development.”
Overall, Mita says he was very encouraged by the meeting. “When people don’t like change, their the most specific. I felt like we had a very even meeting of those in favor.” Another public meeting on the Icona in Wonderland resort is scheduled to be held at the Ocean City Tabernacle on Wednesday, December 4th. Further details are pending.
Meanwhile, Friends of OCNJ History & Culture will host a community meeting at 11 a.m. this Saturday, Nov. 30, at Tabernacle Baptist Church. The community group will discuss revitalization of the property, zoning, and hear from area residents, visitors, and businesses.
