Ocean City and the neighboring shore towns have had a busy year. Here is a look at the local news that matters most if you live, vacation or are thinking about buying or selling at the Jersey Shore.
Ocean City’s beaches were rebuilt
A summer 2026 beach replenishment project rebuilt eroded beaches along Ocean City’s north end, from the terminal groin near Seaview Road to about 11th Street. Contractor Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company placed about 1.6 million cubic yards of sand. According to the city’s project page, beachfill finished on the night of September 7, 2026. As of its September 8 update, pipeline removal was underway, equipment was being demobilized over about two weeks, and all beaches were open to beachgoers. The Morningside Road dune crossover and a section of Beach Road were closed for safety at that time.
Ocean City’s boardwalk upgrade
Ocean City is using a $4.2 million grant from New Jersey’s Boardwalk Preservation Fund to renovate the northern end of the boardwalk, from Second Street to Fifth Street. As reported in February, the first phase replaces worn decking and structural supports with new pilings, framing and planks. It also adds upgraded stairways and railings, ADA-compliant access ramps and decorative lighting. The work was planned to finish by the end of March 2026, ahead of the season, with later phases planned for 2027.
The summer season kicked off on May 22
Ocean City opened its summer season on Friday, May 22, 2026, with the annual unlocking of the ocean and the Business Persons Plunge. Skies were gray and windy, but crowds still turned out to take part and walk the boardwalk.
Down the shore in Wildwood
The Sightseer Tram Cars on the Wildwoods Boardwalk began their 78th season on Saturday, May 9, 2026. They cover 38 blocks of the two-mile boardwalk, and daily service ran from May 28 through Labor Day weekend.
What it can mean for buyers and sellers
Beach condition, boardwalk upkeep and a lively summer season are all things shore buyers tend to weigh when comparing towns, and they are worth keeping in mind if you are planning to sell. Every property and every block is different, so the best way to understand your own situation is to look at the numbers for your town.
Questions about Ocean City or the surrounding shore towns? Call or text Justin Selby at (856) 364-1548 or send a message.
Sources: City of Ocean City, Beach Replenishment Update (September 8, 2026); OCNJ Daily, boardwalk renovation (February 7, 2026); 6abc, Ocean City unlocking of the ocean (May 22, 2026); Patch, Wildwoods tram cars (May 8, 2026). Details may change, so check the original sources for the latest.