Wildwood Boardwalk to Close Overnight

New Jersey officials move to limit late-night crowds on iconic shore attraction.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of the Wildwood Boardwalk sign repeated in a tight grid pattern, utilizing flat, vibrant neon colors and heavy black outlines to transform this everyday coastal landmark into a modern pop art piece.Wildwood's iconic boardwalk sign becomes a bold pop art statement, reflecting the city's efforts to maintain order and promote a welcoming atmosphere on this beloved Jersey Shore attraction.Wildwood Today

Officials in Wildwood, New Jersey, have taken steps to close the Wildwood Boardwalk between the hours of 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. year-round. The new ordinance, which is expected to be adopted at the next Board of Commissioners meeting, aims to curb late-night gatherings and promote a 'welcoming, friendly atmosphere' on the popular shore attraction.

Why it matters

The move comes after Wildwood experienced unruly crowds and safety concerns on the boardwalk in recent years, leading the city to implement other measures like a 10 p.m. curfew for minors and a ban on backpacks after 8 p.m. The proposed overnight closure is the latest effort to maintain order and ensure the boardwalk remains a family-friendly destination.

The details

Under the new ordinance, the Wildwood Boardwalk would be closed from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. daily. The rule would be enforced by the Wildwood Police Department, and signs would be posted to communicate the hours. The closure would not apply to emergency personnel and authorized city workers and contractors.

  • The first reading of the new ordinance took place on April 8, 2026.
  • A second reading, public hearing, and adoption of the new rule is expected during the April 22, 2026 Board of Commissioners meeting.

The players

Ernie Troiano Jr.

The mayor of Wildwood, New Jersey.

Steve Mikulski

The deputy mayor and commissioner of public safety in Wildwood.

Krista McConnell

A commissioner in Wildwood.

Wildwood Police Department

The law enforcement agency that will enforce the new boardwalk closure hours.

Wildwood Boardwalk

The iconic shore attraction in Wildwood, New Jersey that will be subject to the new overnight closure.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“These hours are designed to limit late-night crowds and support a welcoming friendly atmosphere for everyone to enjoy the best of our Boardwalk.”

— Steve Mikulski, Deputy Mayor and Commissioner of Public Safety

What’s next

The Wildwood Board of Commissioners is expected to hold a second reading, public hearing, and final adoption of the new boardwalk closure ordinance at their meeting on April 22, 2026.

The takeaway

Wildwood's move to close its iconic boardwalk overnight is the latest effort by the Jersey Shore community to maintain order and ensure the attraction remains a safe, family-friendly destination after a series of recent public safety concerns. The new rule aims to curb late-night gatherings and promote a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.