Margate is moving forward with a major transformation of Washington Avenue, the important east–west corridor that connects Ventnor Avenue to Amherst Avenue near the bay. The city recently awarded a construction contract for the $3.5 million project, which will convert the entire stretch of Washington Avenue into a one-way westbound roadway. Alongside the traffic shift, the redesign includes a package of safety upgrades, drainage improvements, utility work, and new streetscape features aimed at enhancing both walkability and bike mobility.

A Key Corridor Between Beach and Bay

Washington Avenue serves as one of Margate’s main cross-town routes, linking beach blocks along Ventnor Avenue to the bayfront business district around Amherst Avenue. Because the road receives year-round vehicle, bike, and pedestrian activity, the redesign has been closely watched by homeowners and shop owners alike.

Local reporting indicates the project will focus on the entire roadway and sidewalk environment, introducing improvements that affect drivers, walkers, and cyclists. The shift to one-way westbound travel marks one of the most significant traffic pattern changes in this portion of Margate in years.

What the Redesign Will Include

According to project details and city updates referenced in local coverage, the Washington Avenue overhaul includes:

• Conversion to one-way westbound traffic from Ventnor Avenue to Amherst Avenue

• New bike lanes that connect with Margate’s existing cycling routes

• Wider brick sidewalks designed for better pedestrian flow

• Decorative street lighting to improve visibility and nighttime walkability

• Utility and drainage upgrades under the roadway prior to repaving

• Full roadway resurfacing once underground work is complete

These improvements are designed to create a more cohesive streetscape and reduce vehicle congestion during peak-season weekends.

Why One-Way Westbound?

The decision to convert the full corridor to one-way westbound traffic reflects several local objectives. According to the project outline cited in Downbeach reporting:

• Traffic is expected to flow more steadily toward the bayfront.

• Pedestrian crossings will become safer with fewer directional conflicts.

• Bike lanes can be added more effectively without reducing sidewalk or parking space.

The result is a corridor that blends better with Margate’s walkable environments along Ventnor Avenue and the Marina District.

Streetscape Upgrades and Their Impact

One of the most noticeable upgrades will be the wider sidewalks and brick detailing along the corridor. These enhancements are frequently used in Margate’s commercial and civic projects to support outdoor dining, strollers, pedestrian safety, and general curb appeal.

In addition, decorative street lighting along Washington Avenue will tie the roadway visually to the nearby commercial areas around Ventnor Avenue and to the bay district near Amherst Avenue. Improved lighting is often a top resident request, particularly for streets that see winter foot traffic.

What Homeowners Should Expect

Properties located along Washington Avenue or on connecting streets like Clarendon, Rumson, and Winchester may see temporary traffic detours throughout the construction period. While specific staging dates have not yet been published, utility work is often the most disruptive phase. Homeowners can expect:

• Temporary lane closures

• Occasional driveway access delays

• Increased vehicle staging during underground utility work

• Nighttime lighting improvements once completed

These kinds of infrastructure upgrades often attract the attention of buyers who value ease of movement between the beach and the bay, a common priority among Margate’s second-home market.

As a local agent, I’ve noticed more buyers gravitating toward corridors that offer smooth east–west access. Washington Avenue has always been one of those cross-town routes that helps an owner move easily between the beach blocks and the bayfront restaurants around Amherst.

Why It Matters

Margate’s decision to invest $3.5 million into one of its core connectors signals prioritization of long-term mobility and neighborhood appeal. Streets that handle both seasonal traffic and year-round activity often shape how both residents and visitors experience the town.

“In places like Margate and Longport, buyers are looking for more than just a house,” said Mike Sutley, Team Leader at Lexy Realty Group. “They want walk-to-the-beach access, good neighbors, and the kind of community you can’t replicate inland.”

With the redesign spanning from Ventnor Avenue near the beach to Amherst Avenue by the bay, Washington Avenue sits at the heart of that convenience-driven lifestyle.

What’s Next for the Project

Construction scheduling is expected to follow standard practice: underground utility and drainage work first, followed by streetscape improvements, sidewalk widening, bike-lane delineation, and final paving. While detailed phasing hasn’t yet been published, it’s anticipated that traffic will be redirected during core work periods.

Residents near Ventnor Avenue and the blocks closer to the bay should prepare for:

• Temporary rerouting of eastbound traffic

• Parking adjustments along certain segments

• Intermittent sidewalk closures
  

FAQ: Common Questions About the Washington Avenue Project

Will eastbound traffic be allowed at any point?
No. The full corridor will convert permanently to one-way westbound travel.

Will the bike lanes connect to Margate’s existing routes?
Yes. According to project notes, the lanes are designed to connect with current bike routes and improve cross-town cycling safety.

Are businesses expected to remain open during construction?
Yes. While there may be partial closures or limited access during utility work, businesses along the corridor typically remain open during projects of this type.

Final Thoughts

The Washington Avenue redesign represents a major investment in mobility, safety, and community connectivity in Margate. For residents moving between the beach and the bay — whether on foot, on a bike, or in a car, this transformation will reshape how the corridor feels and functions.

Sources: Downbeach BUZZ, Cat Country 107.3 reporting, Margate City updates