OCEAN CITY — Officials cut the ribbon June 5 on the upgraded Ocean City Fishing Pier at the base of the Ocean City-Longport Bridge on Ocean Drive.
The $731,545 improvement project, funded by the Cape May County Bridge Commission, including $100,000 from the county, has revitalized the popular 500-foot fishing pier. Key enhancements include new wood railings and fencing, new concrete benches and picnic tables and updated trash receptacles and fish cleaning stations. Lighting improvements, and other amenities are designed to enhance safety, cleanliness, and the visitor experience.
Commissioners of the Cape May County Bridge Commission were joined by local elected officials and representatives from the Cape May County Board of Commissioners for the ceremony.
Bridge Commission Chairwoman Carol Brand, Commissioner Scott Halliday and Secretary/Treasurer Maryanne Murphy were on hand with project manager Jason Futrell.
“The Ocean City Fishing Pier has long been a favorite destination for residents and visitors looking to enjoy some of Cape May County’s best waterfront recreation,” Brand said. “The Bridge Commission was proud to partner with the county commissioners on this investment to preserve and enhance this community asset. These improvements will provide a safer, more comfortable and more enjoyable experience for anglers and families for many years to come.”
The project addressed long-standing maintenance needs of the pier, which was originally created from a remaining section of the former bridge. Work on the pier improvements required a temporary closure beginning in March 2026, allowing for an upgraded and safer facility in time for the summer season.
Assemblyman Antwan McClellan and County Commissioner Bobby Barr, both of Ocean City, were featured speakers as County Commission Director Leonard C. Desiderio cut the ceremonial ribbon to official reopen the much-loved Fishing Pier for Summer 2026.
“This project demonstrates the County Commissioners’ ongoing commitment, in partnership with the Bridge Commission, to maintaining and improving public access to our county’s network of great fishing spots for the whole family,” Desiderio said. “The upgraded Ocean City Fishing Pier will offer anglers, families and nature lovers a great day on the water, in a beautiful setting with improved services and amenities.”
– Photos by Prime Digital Marketing on behalf of Cape May County.