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The site of the historic Gillian's Wonderland Pier in Ocean City is at the center of two residential development proposals. ICONA Resorts, the developer of the property, is considering a $25 million offer from Philip Norcross, brother of Democratic power broker George Norcross, to transform the site into townhomes. Another proposal is expected from Ryan Homes, a national home-building company.
Eustace Mita, the owner of the property, initially planned to develop a luxury hotel on the site, but the Ocean City Council rejected this proposal in August. The council's decision came after extensive public debate, with concerns about the project's impact on the local community. Mita expressed disappointment, stating, "I feel terrible for Ocean City because they just missed the opportunity of a lifetime" as reported by WPVI.
The Norcross family, through spokesperson Dan Fee, emphasized their commitment to maintaining Ocean City's reputation as "America’s greatest family resort" according to NJ.com. The site, which Mita purchased in 2021 for $14 million, was previously operated by the Gillian family for nearly 60 years before closing in 2024.
Both proposals will require zoning changes, as the site is currently zoned for amusements, not residential developments. Mita is awaiting the offer from Ryan Homes before making a final decision on the property's future as noted by the Ocean City Sentinel.