Cape May Breaks Ground on $25 Million in Public Works and Improvements

Issue #463

September 22, 2025

In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

⚒️Cape May Breaks Ground on $25 Million in Public Works and Improvements

🐦From Virginia to Cape May: Tracking the Royal Terns of the Jersey Shore

 👮New Sergeants Named in North Wildwood, Including Two Local Natives

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Daisy Lane Boutique

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 September 22

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 Cape May Breaks Ground on $25 Million in Public Works and Improvements

Cape May is in the midst of a transformative series of capital improvement projects totaling more than $25 million. Several major projects are already underway or recently completed. At Harborview Park, a $1.4 million rehabilitation is scheduled for winter 2025, backed by county grants and historic preservation approvals. Over at Lafayette Street Park, upgrades are progressing in multiple phases. The new playground safety surfacing, a $240,000 initiative, has been completed, while the Cape May Nature Trails—built by Massett Building Co. for $1.87 million—are now open to the public. Additional features, such as a relocated dog park and a new bocce court, are under construction, with Think Pavers overseeing the $868,416 project funded through a Green Acres loan from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. One of the city's most high-profile undertakings is the preservation of Cape May’s iconic beachfront promenade. Work on this project, led by Fred Schiavone Construction and supported by a $6.7 million state grant, began in March but was temporarily paused during the peak summer tourism season. Construction resumed in September and is expected to wrap up by May. Simultaneously, Cape May is advancing a major overhaul of its sanitary sewer and water systems. The $5.9 million project, awarded to L. Feriozzi Concrete Co., includes new drainage systems, road reconstruction, water main replacements, and sewer upgrades. With this multi-year investment, Cape May is not only improving infrastructure and public spaces but also preparing the town for long-term sustainability and growth, all while preserving the historic seaside character that draws thousands of visitors every year.

From Virginia to Cape May: Tracking the Royal Terns of the Jersey Shore

 Royal terns, easily identified by their bright orange bills and sharp calls, are common along the Jersey Shore from May to early November. These coastal birds feed by plunge-diving and nest primarily on Horseshoe Island in New Jersey. This month offers one of the best chances to see royal terns along the Jersey coast before they head south for the winter. Ideal viewing spots include Corson’s Inlet State Park, Avalon, Stone Harbor, the Two Mile Beach Unit of the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, and Cape Island’s beaches. Less crowded beaches, sandbars, and tidal flats are where they tend to gather, often resting just outside gull flocks. Their presence offers a seasonal reminder of the Jersey Shore’s rich ecological tapestry—and the rewards of slowing down to observe the wildlife right along the water’s edge.

New Sergeants Named in North Wildwood, Including Two Local Natives

Three North Wildwood police officers—Vincent DeRitis, Mark Santiago, and Joseph Kopetsky—have been promoted to sergeant. The promotions recognize years of service, specialized training, and multiple commendations. DeRitis and Santiago are both local natives, while Kopetsky brings a strong academic and field background. All three officers were officially promoted in a ceremonial pinning that included the support of family members—a gesture underscoring the deep personal and professional commitment each brings to their service in North Wildwood.

Answer to the September 21st Trivia Question

Where do Cape May’s Independence Day fireworks launch from each year?

A) Cape May Lighthouse
B) Rotary Park
C) A barge in front of Congress Hall
D) Sunset Beach

Answer: C) A barge in front of Congress Hall

You can see the Fireworks in front of Congress Hall. However, you can see them from along the beach at Convention Hall past Congress Hall Beach. Rain Date is July 5th.​

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