Abandoned Getty and BP gas stations greet visitors coming over the Ninth Street Bridge into Ocean City. Across the street is a vacant former Exxon Station.
The following is Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian’s
weekly update to citizens posted on Friday, April 17.
Dear Friends:
The City has been attempting to get the owners of the three vacant gas stations near Ninth Street and Bay Avenue to clean up the properties and maintain them in a safe and presentable condition. Clearly the property owners have not cooperated as we would like.
At my direction, the city solicitor has prepared an ordinance that provides us stronger options to compel the rehabilitation or removal of these eyesore properties at the main entrance to town. There is enabling legislation from the state that this ordinance references, and the end result provides us a stronger set of actions than our current local code provides. City Council will consider this ordinance on first reading at their meeting of April 23, 2015.
I have heard the concerns expressed by many of you about these unsightly properties. Be assured we have been doing everything our current code allows to force the owners to do the right thing. I’m confident this new ordinance will lead to an approved appearance at this location.
As many of you know, the beach replenishment project in the south end is underway. I remind everyone to not attempt to enter the construction zone. There will also be equipment and construction vehicles at other areas south of 34th Street at times during this project. Please use extreme caution in this area.
There has been ongoing utility construction on Ninth Street between Ocean Avenue and the boardwalk all week. While the road is expected to be open this weekend, it will not be in a good condition and caution should be exercised.
Have a great weekend!
Warm Regards,
Jay A. Gillian
Mayor
