Amherst Ave residents were surprised by what Margate Commissioners are now considering across from their bayfront homes.
The Margate Board of Commissioners want to build a suspiciously named, 5 block ‘boardwalk’ promenade along the Amherst Avenue marina district. Opponents see this as a sneaky way to use public funds that mainly benefits private property & marina owners on the back bay.
While residents are hoping for an ocean front boardwalk that benefits all, elected officials are placing their focus on using taxpayers dollars for extending the private Margate Fishing pier, and a marina promenade primarily used by boaters.
The 5 block, Amherst boardwalk promenade would be built 2 feet above street level, complete with railings, lighting. The project includes replacement of 500 feet of city-owned bulkhead. This upgrade will greatly benefit marinas, businesses and those that own private property along this portion of Amherst Ave in Margate.
A back bay boardwalk would be squeezed between parked cars and the bulkhead. From the building that houses Junior’s, all the way to the border of Longport, just past Lamberti’s.
Views would be obstructed, say those who live across from the proposed project. Litigation has been ongoing in this area. It could get worse. Watch for Margate to attract more lawsuits. Spending 10’s of thousands in litigation.
Parking along the ocean side of Amherst Ave may be tuned into bike lanes.
Margate City Administrator Richard Deaney will soon receive a budget and work schedule.
This project is moving fast. Some say too fast. Cost estimates have not been made public. It’s unknown if those adjacent to the proposed project have been officially notified. The city may not be legally required to do so.
Margate Solicitor John Scott Abbott & the commissioners really want this. Especially Mr. Abbott, who might gain substantially with this project.
City Admin Richard Deaney wants to expedite efforts to borrow money for the project, via a capital bond ordinance. The Aug. 15 commissioner meeting will likely move this effort along fast. Deaney wants to put this project out to bid in September.
Margate Solicitor John Scott Abbott is prepping to use any means necessary to gain control of private property that might be needed. Easements or eminent domain? How will affected property owners respond if they have so-called riparian rights?
This residential neighborhood along the bay has faced an onslaught of developers trying to build everything from high rises to water parks.
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