Since the closure of Gillian’s Wonderland Pier in October 2024, the landmark’s future is uncertain. However, on Saturday, June 21, Ocean City 2050, a local group of citizens working to preserve Ocean City’s character, promote responsible growth and advocate for transparency in local government, has stepped forward with an alternative vision that could reshape the Boardwalk’s next era.
Their proposal, titled “A Better Idea,” was unveiled at a public meeting at the Ocean City Free Public Library.
Designed as a mixed-use concept, “A Better Idea” combines traditional amusements with new public space, boutique lodging, retail, dining and digital entertainment. The proposal’s goal is to modernize Wonderland’s legacy while preserving Ocean City’s “family-first” brand.
Rather than challenging the site’s current owner, developer Eustace Mita, the plan was created to offer a constructive alternative and open new paths for consensus.
“The purpose of us presenting the alternative, right, was to provide people with a realistic option and it’s not for us to say that we want to do this. This is a discussion that will take place between the city and the developer,” said Bill Merritt, a member of Ocean City 2050. “What we proposed was something that’s not just a pipe dream. It actually can be done. We have investors; we have designs.”
The plan includes four key elements: a small amusement park, a VR and digital entertainment center, public gathering spaces — including a band shell and playground — and a low-rise lodging component set at the rear of the 3-acre property.
The amusement area would feature eight to 10 family-friendly rides, splash pads and social media-friendly design elements like an interactive “selfie wall.” The adjacent VR entertainment center would incorporate cutting-edge immersive technology — such as motion-simulator pods and interactive digital environments — bringing a fresh attraction to the Boardwalk’s offerings.
Ocean City 2050 has spent over six months developing the plan, including architectural designs, financial modeling and stakeholder outreach.
Merritt confirmed that the concept is “financeable,” with investor interest already lined up. While specific cost estimates are still being refined, he stated the proposal is “substantially lower” than Mita’s previously rumored $150 million vision.
A recurring theme during Saturday’s meeting and subsequent interviews was the importance of a public process. Merritt emphasized that Ocean City 2050’s intention is to contribute to a transparent and inclusive conversation — one that supports the City Council, the public and even the current developer by showing what else is possible.
The group also addressed skepticism that emerged following the proposal’s release.
“We understand concerns,” said Merritt. “Some people think we’re telling a property owner what to do. But we’re not. We’re just putting forward one thoughtful option. The process benefits from having options on the table.”
Feedback at the meeting was largely positive, with even some initial skeptics changing their stance after seeing the depth of research and planning behind the proposal.
The lodging aspect — traditionally a controversial point in Ocean City — has been designed with sensitivity, placed at the back of the property and limited in height.
Their next steps include releasing a video presentation, architectural deck, and a frequently asked questions guide on social media and Ocean City 2050’s website. The group also plans to make one of its key investors public in the coming weeks.
“The Boardwalk is actually pretty small. [It’s] six blocks. This is one sixth of the Boardwalk, so this is not a small decision. This is a huge decision, and it really needs to be thoughtful,” said Merritt. “And that’s really what our driving motivation was, to bring information in.”
More information and proposal materials will be available soon at oceancity2050.org and on their Facebook page.
Julia is a recent Rider University graduate, where she studied multiplatform journalism and social media strategies. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, trying new coffee shops, photography and the beach. She can be reached at juliatrainmedia@gmail.com or connect with her on Instagram@juliatrain
