Longport is moving forward with an important roadway improvement project along a narrow and historically challenging stretch of Atlantic Avenue between 17th and 22nd Avenues. Known locally as the “stone wall” section, this corridor sits tight against a historic seawall that leaves limited space for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. In mid-November, Borough Commissioners approved a plan to reconfigure the roadway with dedicated bike lanes, adjusted lane widths, new striping, and updated signage to enhance safety. A construction contract valued at $218,000 was awarded to Lexa Concrete Company of Hammonton, with work expected to begin in early 2026 as weather permits
While the project may seem modest compared to large-scale redevelopment in surrounding towns, the upgrade is meaningful for Longport residents—especially those living near The Point or traveling the popular oceanfront route between Margate and Longport.
Why the Stone Wall Section Needs Improvement
The stretch between 17th and 22nd Avenues presents a unique traffic configuration for the Downbeach region. The historic seawall creates a tight corridor where cars pass closely alongside a vertical stone barrier. This layout has long been a safety concern, particularly during summer months when vehicle use, pedestrian movement, and bike traffic all increase.
Residents have frequently noted issues such as:
Minimal shoulder space
Shared vehicle and bike lanes
Limited visibility at certain points
Difficulty navigating the corridor during peak hours
The borough’s plan to incorporate dedicated bike lanes and clearer separation between modes of travel addresses many of these concerns.
Key Improvements Coming to Atlantic Avenue
The approved project includes several roadway design adjustments aimed at improving clarity, safety, and comfort for all who use the corridor:
Dedicated bike lanes running along both directions
Traffic lane resizing to better accommodate modern vehicle widths
Fresh roadway striping and edge markings
Updated signage to improve awareness of cyclists and merging zones
Enhanced visual cues to help drivers anticipate transitions and curves
Together, these upgrades aim to reduce conflict points and improve the overall experience for residents and visitors using this section of Atlantic Avenue.
Construction Timeline and Expectations
Because the corridor is narrow and bordered by the seawall on one side and home frontage on the other, construction will require careful sequencing and likely intermittent closures or shifts. Residents near 17th–22nd Avenues should anticipate:
Occasional lane closures
Early-morning construction activity
Short-term detours during striping or paving periods
Temporary loss of street parking in select areas
Signage and cones guiding traffic through narrower zones
The borough plans to begin work in early 2026, pending suitable weather and contractor scheduling. Winter weather and coastal conditions may affect timing.
Agent Perspective on Mobility and Neighborhood Appeal
As a local agent, I’ve seen roadway improvements meaningfully impact how buyers perceive small Downbeach neighborhoods. Safer traffic patterns, well-marked bike lanes, and clearer roadway organization can make homes along these corridors more appealing to both permanent residents and second-home buyers. Longport’s upgrades continue a broader regional trend of enhancing safety while supporting the lifestyle value of ocean-adjacent neighborhoods.— Mike Sutley, Team Leader at Lexy Realty Group
How the Project Fits Into Longport’s Broader Planning
The Atlantic Avenue upgrade complements ongoing improvements in Longport’s north-end recreation spaces, including the Point Park renovation. Together, these projects reflect a coordinated effort to address infrastructure needs, enhance public safety, and support the town’s overall quality of life.
For a municipality defined by narrow streets, high seasonal traffic, and a sharply limited land base, even small-scale mobility improvements can have outsized benefits. Longport’s leadership has consistently focused on maintaining a walkable, bike-friendly, and family-oriented environment, especially near The Point.
Why It Matters
While this project may appear simple—a lane reconfiguration and bike-lane addition—it addresses one of Longport’s most constrained road segments. Residents who travel between Margate and Longport daily may experience smoother flows, safer cycling routes, and improved visibility once the changes are in place.
The corridor is also a heavily used access route to the north-end beaches. The modifications help ensure the town remains accessible and navigable for both summer and year-round activity.
Micro-FAQ
Will traffic be reduced to one lane during construction?
Yes, intermittently. The borough will use cones and signage to maintain controlled flow.
Will the bike lanes be protected?
They will be dedicated and striped, but not physically separated.
Is the seawall itself being altered?
No. The project focuses on roadway configuration and striping.
Sources:
Longport Commission; Downbeach BUZZ; Lexa Concrete Company.
