UPDATE: Ocean City Council has just voted 4-3 to evaluate the future of the shuttered Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, paving the way for potential redevelopment. This crucial decision occurred late Thursday night, with the council’s move aimed at lifting current zoning restrictions that have hindered progress on the site.
The vote, which took place after 10 p.m., follows a heated public comment session where dozens of residents expressed their views on the amusement park’s future. Developer Eustace Mita, who acquired the property in 2021, has ambitious plans to transform the site into a 252-room luxury hotel named “Icona in Wonderland.” Mita has committed to preserving the iconic Ferris wheel and carousel that have defined the pier for years.
However, the proposal has faced pushback from the community. Earlier this summer, Mita suggested he might sell the property after a similar redevelopment vote failed in August. The council’s recent decision marks a significant shift, offering renewed hope for the site’s revival and the local economy.
The next step involves the planning board assessing whether the Wonderland Pier qualifies as “in need of rehabilitation.” This evaluation is vital for the hotel project to proceed.
Residents are eager to see how this decision unfolds, as it could breathe new life into a beloved local landmark. Stay tuned as we continue to track this developing story and its implications for Ocean City.
