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Atlantic City’s Tourism District Policing Unit will receive $2 million in funding from the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) through Oct. 31, 2026, extending a public safety initiative that supports the city’s peak tourism season.
The funding is part of a $6.3 million partnership between the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority and Atlantic City, which is contributing the remaining $4.3 million.
The initiative, operated in partnership with the Atlantic City Police Department, will maintain a dedicated policing unit across the Tourism District, which spans all nine Atlantic City casinos.
Tourism policing unit expands during peak summer months
The Tourism District Policing Unit will include 20 dedicated officers during May, June, September and October, increasing to 32 officers this July and August when visitor numbers are highest. The unit will operate seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m., using patrol vehicles, all-terrain vehicles and bicycles.
Mayor Marty Small Sr. said the partnership helps ensure residents and visitors feel safe while enjoying the city during the busy summer season.
CRDA Executive Director Eric Scheffler said the partnership, combined with continued investment in public safety, helps “better protect a multi-billion-dollar tourism economy that supports tens of thousands of families throughout the region.”
Atlantic City Police Chief James Sarkos said “our approach balances proactive public safety with compassionate community engagement,” adding that officers are building relationships with residents, business owners and visitors while working to create a safer, more welcoming environment.
Atlantic County tourism drives billions in economic activity
The policing initiative was first introduced in 2024 as Atlantic City sought to strengthen safety throughout its Tourism District.
According to an annual study by Tourism Economics for the New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism, Atlantic County welcomed nearly 24 million visitors in 2024, generating $8.2 billion in visitor spending.
The study found tourism also supported more than 70,000 jobs, representing more than one-third of all employment in Atlantic County, and generated $882.6 million in state and local tax revenue.
Business community backs continued funding
The program received support from local business organizations and the casino industry.
Amir Kashmiri, president of the Atlantic City Merchants Association, said the Tourism District Policing Unit has created “a newfound sense of safety and well-being among residents, business owners, and visitors alike,” while praising officers’ quick response to incidents and proactive approach.
Scott Cronick, co-executive director of the Metropolitan Business and Citizens Association, said the initiative has made “a tremendous difference” and called for the city to maintain and build on that momentum.
The Casino Association of New Jersey also endorsed the program’s continuation, with president George Goldhoff citing noticeable improvements along the Boardwalk and throughout the Tourism District while expressing support for maintaining the initiative long term.
