Cape May Invests $25M in Citywide Upgrades and Flood Protection

Cape May, one of New Jersey’s most historic coastal towns, is undergoing a sweeping transformation with more than $25 million worth of construction projects underway or planned. The improvements span from parks and recreation upgrades to major infrastructure and flood protection systems, positioning the seaside community for long-term resilience and enhanced quality of life.

According to the city’s website, the initiatives are aimed at strengthening public infrastructure, expanding recreational amenities, and fortifying Cape May against flooding and coastal risks.

Park and Recreation Enhancements

Cape May is prioritizing its green and recreational spaces with several high-profile upgrades.

Harborview Park Rehabilitation

A $1.4 million rehabilitation project, funded through county grants and historic preservation approvals, is scheduled for winter 2025.

Lafayette Street Park

Multiple phases are complete or in progress. The city has already finished a $240,000 playground safety surfacing upgrade, while the Cape May Nature Trails, a $1.87 million project awarded to Massett Building Co., are now open.

Dog Park & Bocce Court Relocation

Currently under construction by Think Pavers, the $868,416 project is funded by a New Jersey DEP Green Acres loan.

“These projects are designed to not only improve recreational opportunities but also preserve the historic and environmental character of Cape May’s public spaces,” city officials noted.

Promenade Preservation and Tourism Infrastructure

The city’s iconic promenade is receiving significant attention. Fred Schiavone Construction began work in March on a state-funded $6.7 million preservation project.

Work paused during the busy summer tourist season to minimize disruption, but resumed in September with completion targeted for May. The project will reinforce Cape May’s shoreline infrastructure while maintaining one of the city’s most beloved attractions.

Major Infrastructure Upgrades

Cape May is also investing heavily in critical underground systems.

The Sanitary Sewer and Water System project, valued at $5.9 million and awarded to L. Feriozzi Concrete Co., will include:

• Road reconstruction with upgraded drainage
• Curb and sidewalk repairs
• Water and sewer main replacements

Work is already planned for Ohio Avenue, Stockton Place, Washington Street, Illinois Avenue, and Idaho Avenue. To support the effort, Cape May secured $7 million in loan forgiveness from the N.J. Water Infrastructure Bank.

Future Projects on the Horizon

Beyond current construction, Cape May is preparing eight additional projects that will continue reshaping the city:

• A $600,000 sidewalk rehabilitation program, expanding the city’s 50/50 cost-sharing model with homeowners
• A new $8 million police station at Lafayette and St. John
• A seawall extension project in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
• Accessibility upgrades at the tennis club through a $270,672 grant
• Renovations at the lifeguard station
• The Elmira Street Flood Resiliency Project
• A Delaware Avenue revetment, another collaboration with the Army Corps
• A pedestrian-bicycle bridge on First Avenue in partnership with West Cape May

Construction on the tennis club accessibility project is anticipated this fall or winter.

Long-Term Vision for Cape May

City leaders emphasize that the combined investment not only strengthens Cape May’s resilience to flooding and coastal storms but also improves livability for residents and visitors.

With recreational upgrades, stronger infrastructure, and forward-looking projects like the seawall and flood resiliency systems, Cape May is positioning itself as a model for coastal community planning and preservation.

Originally reported by New Jersey News Report.