Businessman George Norcross, his family and investment partners have acquired the former Trump Plaza property, placing one of Atlantic City’s most prominent undeveloped sites under new ownership.
Mayor Marty Small Sr. confirmed the purchase Wednesday and welcomed the investment, describing it as a vote of confidence in the city’s future.
“I am ecstatic that George Norcross, his family and his partners are investing in the former Trump Plaza site,” Small said. “When successful business leaders like Mr. Norcross choose Atlantic City, it sends a strong message and helps attract additional investors who recognize the opportunities here.”
The oceanfront property sits on the Boardwalk beside Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, the longtime home of the Miss America competition. No development plans have been announced, but Small said the property offers “endless possibilities.” He emphasized that it will not become another casino.
A spokesperson for Norcross did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The spokesperson told The Press of Atlantic City that information about the group’s plans would be released later.
The purchase expands the Norcross team’s presence in Atlantic City, where it already has an interest in Formica Freitag Bakery.
Trump Plaza opened in 1984 and operated for 30 years. During its heyday, the casino hosted major boxing matches, concerts and other high-profile events. The property also became associated with a lengthy dispute involving Atlantic City homeowner Vera Coking, who resisted efforts to acquire her residence for a casino expansion project.
The casino’s fortunes declined as Atlantic City faced increased gambling competition in neighboring states. Trump Plaza ultimately became the city’s lowest-performing casino and closed in 2014.
After years of deterioration, the vacant hotel tower was imploded in February 2021 amid concerns about debris falling from the structure. Small described the demolition at the time as an important step toward attracting new development, but the cleared property remained unused.
Small said he had worked for years to attract an investor to the site.
“We welcome the Norcross team’s vision for the property and look forward to learning more about their plans when they are ready to share them,” he said.
The mayor said he expects to work with Norcross and his partners, Gov. Mikie Sherrill and Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson as the redevelopment process moves forward.
