Atlantic City officials announced the full implementation of the Boardwalk Improvement Group (BIG) during a Monday press conference.

Announced in October, BIG is a public-private partnership between a number of Atlantic City agencies, entities and stakeholders. The initiative formed under the leadership of Atlantic City Police Department Sergeant Brian Shapiro and guidance by Judge Steven Perskie.

BIG focuses on addressing homelessness and other quality-of-life concerns on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, beaches and throughout the city as a whole. Issues aimed at keeping the boardwalk clean and safe include alleviating aggressive boardwalk performers, bicycle violations, public smoking, open container violations and other issues.

The initiative features an integration of city departments conducting 24/7 observation and reconnaissance. The attention focuses on prevention, abatement, cleanup, engagement and enforcement. The work will include daily, visual boardwalk and beach inspections as well as the creation of one central, internal “See, Click, Fix” database for all information and communication.

Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. said that the city is excited for BIG to fully launch.

“Never before in the history of Atlantic City has a plan like this ever been created to address homelessness,” said Small. “This problem wasn’t started overnight and it’s not going to be solved overnight – but it’s my job as mayor to give all these departments involved the necessary tools to succeed, and we’re doing that in a big way.”

🚨🚨 We announced in October the formation of the Boardwalk Improvement Group (BIG) to address homelessness and other quality of life concerns throughout the city, AND NOW the program is being fully implemented!
https://t.co/QgCfzzSU04@AtlanticCityPD @AtlanticCityOEM pic.twitter.com/AiO0TKzuWg

— City of Atlantic City (@AtlanticCityGov) July 1, 2024

‘BIG’ deal

“This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our efforts to enhance the safety, enjoyment, and overall experience of one of our city’s most cherished landmarks,” said Atlantic City Chief of Police James Sarkos. “This collective effort aims to create a secure and more welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.”

Atlantic City Office of Emergency Management Coordinator Scott Evans said this is the first time anything like this has happened — where everyone is on the same page and working from one playbook to make sure the AC Boardwalk is among the safest in the country.

“We’ve brought almost all of the departments in the City of Atlantic City together, joined by outside agencies, to make a difference – and we’re already seeing results,” said Evans.

Officials stress that while BIG will address homeless individuals loitering around and under the boardwalk and beaches, as well as the removal of encampments, there is a focus on supporting these individuals. Stakeholders pointed to efforts in the city to help get them the help they need.

“We’re out here every day assisting not just homeless individuals, but also individuals dealing with drug and alcohol problems,” said Atlantic City Department of Health and Human Services Director Jarrod Barnes. “This initiative and what we do every day is not just about clearing out homeless – it’s about assisting them in any way we can – and getting them the help that they need.”

See also:

In March, Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. announced plans for a $26 million boardwalk reconstruction project. Click here to read more.