In this special two-part series, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy sit down with Bill Merritt and Dan Gilman from Ocean City 2050 to discuss their alternative vision for the former Wonderland Pier site.

In Part 1, we dive into the origins and mission of Ocean City 2050, an organization dedicated to Ocean City's long-term future. Guests clarify a common misconception: they aren't telling the landowner what to do, but rather offering a public alternative for consideration during potential zoning changes. Dan Gilman, with decades of experience in public-private partnerships on Wall Street, shares his insights on typical large-scale development processes and how they can apply to Ocean City. Bill Merritt then provides a comprehensive overview of Ocean City 2050's proposed mixed-use concept, designed to enhance the boardwalk experience for all ages. We examine the four key components of their plan: a smaller, economically viable amusement park, a digital entertainment center, a lodging facility, and public common areas. Tune in to understand how this alternative proposal aims to foster a productive community dialogue and lead to a compromise that benefits Ocean City for generations to come.

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