There is always optimism at the start of the year, Mayor Frank Gilliam said recently. He must be a naturally hopeful person, because for several years after the 2007-09 economic collapse and subsequent shrinkage of Atlantic City’s gaming industry, the challenge was to keep pessimism from spiraling down into despair.
But Gilliam’s optimism is finally merited this year, and he is right on the money about what his city should aim for — not only more success now, but making it a model of revitalization in the next five to seven years.
That’s going to require building upon the major accomplishments of the past year and patience — overcoming inevitable setbacks, staying focused on becoming a more appealing destination for visitors and continuing the work and sacrifices that will pay off for years to come.
There are a lot of sure things behind the optimism. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and Stockton University’s city campus are under construction and will give the city a major boost this year. The $81 million, 250-unit Beaches at South Inlet apartment project will open about the same time. Tennessee Avenue is being redeveloped, a Boardwalk beer garden is in the works and the big observation wheel already is turning on Steel Pier.