Spotlight on: Marty Small, Mayor, City of Atlantic City
March 2025 —In an interview with Invest: New Jersey, Mayor Marty Small emphasized Atlantic City’s economic growth and infrastructure upgrades. Key initiatives include the Hope Work Initiative to address homelessness and major housing developments boosting homeownership. “Now is the time to invest in Atlantic City,” he stated.
What have been the key highlights for Atlantic City over the past 12 months?
We’ve been focused on economic development, including hiring an economic development director to boost small business growth. We also launched a new website, www.greatdayatlanticcity.com, using federal grant funds to provide resources for Atlantic City businesses, residents and investors.
How is Atlantic City enhancing its appeal as a destination for residents and new businesses?
We’re prioritizing small business development and attracting private investment from high-end developers like Pat Fasano, Bart Blatstein, and the Kushner family. These projects focus on private development, family entertainment, and housing, helping to create a thriving city for residents, businesses and visitors.
Can you share details on the Hope Work Initiative and how it addresses homelessness?
No administration before ours has directly tackled homelessness like we have. We have a team of 10 individuals working daily to engage with the homeless population, offering resources to help them get back on their feet. The state is adding six more members, expanding our unit to 16. We’ve also hired social workers and drug and alcohol counselors. The Hope Work Initiative provides temporary job opportunities with the city for homeless individuals, and if they succeed, we help them transition into full-time employment.
What initiatives are in place to promote homeownership and streamline services in the city?
We’re working closely with developers on new housing projects. K. Hovnanian’s first phase will deliver 125 units, and the second phase will feature 136 units, for a total of 261 units. The Kushner family is contributing 180 units, also in the underutilized Inlet neighborhood. These developments, and others like it, boost our tax base while expanding housing options.
We also launched a unique housing lottery in partnership with New Jersey Community Capital. This initiative helped four Atlantic City residents purchase brand-new homes in the city originally priced at $400,000. With contributions from the city and federal programs, the cost was brought down to $175,000 or less. There are certain requirements, including living in the unit as a primary residence for a period of no less than 15 years and the unit, or any part thereof, shall not be leased or marketed as an Airbnb, or short-term rental.
Has the city’s recent growth extended into infrastructure improvements?
Yes, we’ve aggressively invested in infrastructure. Major projects include rebuilding both Venice Park bridges, repaving Atlantic Avenue, and synchronizing traffic lights on Pacific Avenue. Other roadway improvements cover areas like Baltic Avenue and MLK Boulevard. We’re also upgrading pump stations and constructing new bulkheads to enhance flood resilience.
What is the city’s stance on offshore wind energy?
The offshore wind projects, including Atlantic Shores, are currently on pause or potentially canceled. However, our administration is in support of expanding industries to diversify the local economy.
What investments are being made in workforce development?
Evolution Gaming is building a facility that will create around 1,000 jobs. The city also has an in-house workforce development program in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, ensuring residents have access to career opportunities beyond city employment.
What industries have seen the most growth in the past year?
We’ve made a significant push into the cannabis industry, with 12 dispensaries now open. While it’s still a new sector, the potential tax revenue should greatly benefit residents.
How would you describe Atlantic City’s relationship with the New Jersey government?
Our partnership with the state has never been stronger. We’re working together to move the city forward, and the state has been incredibly supportive of Atlantic City residents.
Are there any key legislations or regulations to watch for?
The big questions are whether the state will renew the Atlantic City takeover and what will happen with PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) legislation.
What are the biggest challenges facing Atlantic City, and how is your administration addressing them?
We’re tackling every major issue head-on — crime reduction, tax relief, youth and senior engagement, and homelessness. This year, we’re implementing our sixth consecutive tax decrease, further easing the financial burden on residents.
What is your outlook for Atlantic City over the next few years?
Now is the time to invest in Atlantic City. Two years from now, opportunities will be scarce, and prices will rise. We’re building momentum, and it’s a great day for the city.
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