Under the constant stream of sunshine and a steady breeze off of the water, residents and visitors to Atlantic City had the chance to partake in something that has been forbidden for quite a while: consuming alcohol while on and around the boardwalk in an open container.
“It is amazing to drink on the boardwalk,” said Crystal Ronaldo, of Tuckerton, who Friday evening was sitting with friends in wooden chairs across from the bar near the Showboat Hotel and Apartments. “I have been trapped in the house for way too long. It’s really nice having other people making your drink and not having to go to the liquor store to buy the mixers and beer.”
The change comes after Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. signed an executive order Monday allowing public consumption of alcohol, which went into effect Friday. The move was in reaction to Gov. Phil Murphy’s phased reopening of the state after the coronavirus pandemic closures, which will allow for outdoor dining, with restrictions.
“It feels like there will be people who will come out and care to keep everything going,” added Jenna Santiago, Ronaldo’s friend.