Credit: (Ted Goldberg/NJ Spotlight News)A $25 million offer from a powerful political name could reshape Ocean City’s iconic boardwalk. Philip Norcross, the brother of long-time South Jersey power broker George Norcross and U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross (D-1st) made a formal bid to buy the site of the now-shuttered Gillian’s Wonderland Pier.
As first reported by the Philadelphia Inquirer, Philip Norcross — who is also an attorney — wants to replace the amusement park with high-end townhouses, in what he calls a commitment to Ocean City’s future as a family destination.
But critics have been quick to argue the proposal is more than just real estate, and instead another example of the Norcross family’s far-reaching presence both in politics and business in New Jersey.
The offer comes just weeks after the Ocean City Council rejected a hotel plan for the site, citing zoning laws that prioritize entertainment along the boardwalk. Virginia-based developer NVR also has a bid in the mix to build townhouses even though city leaders made clear they aren’t considering residential buildings.
