By: Follow South Jersey Staff
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The Boardwalk Improvement Group (BIG), created in October, 2023, to address homelessness in the city is now “fully implemented,” according to a press release from the city.
Mayor Marty Small, Sr. and members of BIG made the announcement on Monday, July 1.
According to the city, “BIG is a proactive partnership between the public and private sector that aims to improve the overall quality of the Atlantic City Boardwalk and beaches, and city as a whole. BIG features an integration of city departments that conduct 24/7 observation and reconnaissance, with attention to prevention, abatement, cleanup, engagement and enforcement. Daily visual Boardwalk and beach inspections are conducted, while ‘See, Click, Fix’ was created internally to form one, central database for all information and communication.”
The program aims to addresses “homeless individuals sleeping under and loitering around the Atlantic City Boardwalk and beaches, as well as removal of encampments, while supporting the idea of these individuals finding a successful path in life,” the press release stated.
“Never before in the history of Atlantic City has a plan like this ever been created to address homelessness,” said Mayor 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’re excited for BIG to fully launch and are currently working on an ordinance to crack down on individuals sleeping on Atlantic City property.”
The group, formed under the leadership of Atlantic City Police Department (ACPD) Sergeant Brian Shapiro and guidance by Judge Steven Perskie, Policy Advisor to Mayor Small, consists of police, the Atlantic City Office of Emergency Management (OEM), Atlantic City Department of Public Works, Atlantic City Department of Licensing and Inspection, Atlantic City Solicitor’s Office, Atlantic City Information Technology Department and Atlantic City Health and Human Services Department.
The NJ Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA), Special Improvement Division (SID), New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the Atlantic City Casino Association, Atlanticare, and social services groups from throughout the area, including Jewish Family Services of Atlantic & Cape May Counties, Volunteers of America, Hope One Atlantic County, Angels in Motion and NJ Rise were also involved in the program.
While homelessness is a major component, BIG will also addresses aggressive Boardwalk performers, bicycle violations, public smoking, open container violations, and other issues, according to the city.
“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 Department of Health and Human Services director Jarrod Barnes said that the program is not just for the homeless, but those with addiction issues.
“We’re out here every day assisting not just homeless individuals, but also individuals dealing with drug and alcohol problems,” Barnes stated. “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.”
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