Revitalization Efforts Underway at AC's Historic Gardner’s Basin
The grand reopening is now projected for later this year, pending the completion of ongoing work.
ATLANTIC CITY – Historic Gardner’s Basin, one of Atlantic City’s most cherished attractions, has recently undergone significant renovations thanks to the administration of Mayor Marty Small, Sr. During a news conference held on Monday, September 30, 2024, at the Gardner’s Basin pier, across from Back Bay Ale House, city officials highlighted the improvements, announced future projects, and provided an update on the anticipated reopening of the Atlantic City Aquarium.
The aquarium had aimed to reopen this summer after being closed for four years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and necessary repairs. However, delays caused by supply chain issues and funding complications have pushed back the timeline for the final stages of renovation, including the second phase of HVAC replacement. Mayor Small successfully secured additional funding for this phase, which was not included in the initial project scope. Recognizing the need for comprehensive repairs, the mayor insisted that both exterior and interior improvements be completed before the aquarium reopens. The grand reopening is now projected for later this year, pending the completion of ongoing work.
Significant renovations completed to date include the rehabilitation of the aquarium’s interior, along with window and roof replacements, and the first phase of HVAC upgrades.
Exterior work, which encompasses siding, trim, decks, railings, and the addition of a mural at the entrance, is nearing completion and is funded through various sources, including American Rescue Plan funds. Visitors can look forward to exciting new exhibits upon the aquarium's reopening.
“The Atlantic City Aquarium is looking more beautiful than ever,” said Mayor Small. “I promise when the doors finally reopen, everyone will agree this has been worth the wait. We will never rush a project just to say it’s done; that would be a disservice to our taxpayers. Our goal is to create an aquarium that can compete with the best in the country.”
At the news conference, the mayor also announced that the city has secured $1.4 million in grant funding for the demolition of the seawall bathroom adjacent to the aquarium, paving the way for a new public restroom facility. The existing seawall bathroom has been closed for several years, and reconstruction is expected to begin in the coming months, with plans to complete the project before the summer of 2025.
In addition to the aquarium renovations, Gardner’s Basin has seen other recent improvements, including pier and piling replacement, dredging, new lighting and signage, enhancements to parking areas and sidewalks, and the installation of new EV charging stations. Upcoming projects at Gardner’s Basin will focus on improving the maintenance building with a new roof and painting, upgrading security cameras, and constructing a trash enclosure to centralize waste and recycling collection for the area. These initiatives are set to commence by this spring.
The Atlantic City Aquarium is owned by the city and managed by the Department of Public Works, while Gardner’s Basin management oversees exhibit-related activities. The news conference included remarks from City Business Administrator Anthony Swan, City Engineer Uzo Ahiarakwe, City Council President Aaron “Sporty” Randolph, Atlantic City Aquarium/Gardner’s Basin Nautical Park Manager Lisa Schall, and Aquarist Sarita DuCote-Stroud.
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