Judge Grants Preliminary Injunction Halting Phase 2 of Atlantic Avenue “Road Diet” in Atlantic City

CRDA Granted Preliminary Injunction to Halt Atlantic City Road Diet

ATLANTIC CITY — A judge has granted the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) a preliminary injunction, temporarily halting Phase 2 of the Atlantic Avenue “road diet” project that would reduce the number of vehicle travel lanes from four to two in most areas.

Atlantic County Superior Court Assignment Judge Michael Blee gave the CRDA 45 days to review the city’s plans for the road diet, emphasizing the agency’s jurisdiction over traffic control in the city’s Tourism District. While Phase 1 of the project is already complete, Phase 2, which aims to enhance safety for pedestrians and drivers, has been put on hold pending CRDA’s review.

The road diet project has faced challenges from several casinos and AtlantiCare, with concerns raised about potential impacts on emergency vehicle access and casino visitors. The CRDA’s involvement in the lawsuit signals a deeper examination of the project’s compliance with their master plan for the Tourism District.

Mayor Marty Small Sr., a proponent of the road diet plan, has yet to comment on the injunction. The city, which hopes to utilize state and federal funds for the project, must collaborate with CRDA to provide all necessary information for review and approval.

The judge’s ruling ensures that the project will not proceed without CRDA’s input, allowing time for the agency to evaluate the plans and address any concerns. With the deadline for completion looming, both the city and the CRDA have a limited window to reach a decision on the future of the road diet on Atlantic Avenue.

As the road diet saga continues, the community awaits further developments and the ultimate fate of this controversial project in Atlantic City.

– Reporter: Michelle Brunetti Post