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Atlantic City police are intensifying efforts to enforce the no-smoking law on the boardwalk this summer. Smoking cigarettes and marijuana is illegal on the boardwalk, and the police are responding to numerous complaints from residents and visitors about the pervasive smell of smoke.
To tackle the issue, more officers will patrol the boardwalk, thanks to a $3 million grant from the New Jersey Casino Reinvestment Development Authority. Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small emphasized the seriousness of the crackdown, stating, "We mean business. We'll crack down on it and we'll get it right." Captain Kevin Fair of the Atlantic City Police Department mentioned that officers and the city's surveillance center will monitor for smokers, who could face fines if caught.
The increase in cannabis dispensaries in Atlantic City, which has the most in New Jersey, has contributed to the rise in complaints. Mark Giannantonio, CEO of Resorts AC, and President of the local Casino Association, expressed concerns about the impact of marijuana use on the boardwalk, advocating for zero tolerance.
The Atlantic City Merchants Association has also voiced concerns, with President Amer Kashmiri noting that many people are smoking openly on the boardwalk. The city plans to increase signage to remind visitors of the smoking ban. The crackdown aims to restore the boardwalk's family-friendly atmosphere, which has been affected by the increase in smoking and related activities.