Another taxpayer funded project where a majority of Margate residents and business oppose Mayor Michael Collins. Ignoring loud opposition, Collins is determined to make Washington Ave a one-way street in order to build a bike lane.
Most residents and one, lone commissioner (Blumberg) are opposed to the scheme. They argue it’s an unnecessary change and will negatively impact businesses and traffic flow.
PODCAST: Margate Commission Aug 21, 2025.
Residents and business owners criticize lack of transparency and notification.
Business owner Joe DiLorenzo “We were never notified”. A significant portion of the public feels unheard and unrepresented.
Margate public hasn’t been properly consulted or informed about Washington Ave one-way specific plan. Residents note: this is why live Zoom video of municipal meetings is so critical. Especially for non-voting, 2nd homeowners that pay lions share of tax burden.
Update: Zoom video conferencing equipment reportedly will be installed Sept 2025.
To date, Margate Business Admin Pat Moran and Mayor Collins have yet to confirm how the system will be used. Mayor Collins and Commissioner Horn both opposed to live ZOOM Video and public commenting using ZOOM.
Note: Moran threatens lawsuit against Margate.
Margate has history of dangling grant money in front of taxpayers. Mayor Collins admits grant money is only possible if local funds are attached. ex: Contaminated gas station purchase converted to parking lot that benefits his hardware business.
Commissioner Maury Blumberg is strongly opposed to Mayor Collin’s use of taxpayer funds. Blumberg: “Everybody that I talk to is against making Washington Avenue one way. Free money is not free if the people of Margate aren’t in favor of the project.
Do we really need a Washington Ave bike lane?
Mayor Collins argues that the one-way component is integral, specifically for the bike lane.
Washington Ave Streetscape Program: Taxpayer funded non-Critical project
Business owner Joe DiLorenzo highlights opposition: Aversa’s Bakery collected over 200 signatures in two days.
DiLorenzo: According to email received via OPRA, public safety didn’t know there was one-way project til April 24, 2025.
The Margate Commission will need to decide whether to proceed with the current bid, consider alternatives, or risk losing grant funding.
Margate Public Safety Commissioner Horn: “If it’s horrible, can we change it? What happens then? I can’t imagine. what would be horrible accidents? Well, then we would definitely change things.”
Note: Horn is school psychologist for Atlantic City High School. Horn reports to AC School District Superintendent LaQuetta Small.
Washington Aven will have loud trucks traveling day and night delivering to restaurants and bars. I have it now on Coolidge Ave since Amherst Avenue changed to one way.
You can’t sleep with the windows open. So be prepared Washington Ave for the rumbling noises of the trucks!
Also, those bikers riding through red lights and stop signs on Washington Ave should be a concern for all.
That’s not an enjoyable relaxing ride at all.
If Mayor (Collins) wants to beautify a street that REALLY needs it, take a look on Benson Avenue around City-owned public works properties.
Plant some trees over there. It’s such an eyesore
it’s embarrassing.