September 4, 2009

ASSEMBLYMEN JOHN AMODEO AND VINCE POLISTINA ANNOUNCE 10-POINT PLAN TO REVITALIZE ATLANTIC CITY REGION

(Atlantic County)—Today Assemblymen John Amodeo and Vince Polistina unveiled a 10-point plan to revitalize the Atlantic City region. The Assemblymen were joined by Chris Christie, Republican candidate for Governor, for the announcement on the boardwalk outside Showboat Casino.

The comprehensive plan, ranging from the use of CRDA funds to better market Atlantic City as an international travel destination to declaring Casino Control Commission employees essential in the event the state must shutdown due to a budget impasse, addresses several roadblocks to success for both the city and the region.

“We need to do more to spur economic development in the region and keep Atlantic County residents working,” said Assemblyman John Amodeo. “The gaming industry is an important key to our success—but casinos are not the only thing Atlantic City has to offer. We have an outstanding location and doing things like lowering the dunes will flaunt one of our greatest assets.”

“Atlantic City can and should be an international travel destination,” noted Polistina. The problem is that we are competing in a world-wide market with regional funding. CRDA funds should be used to bridge the gap. Tourists would not only spend dollars in the casinos but at the hotels, restaurants and shops up and down this boardwalk.”

“Our efforts cannot stop at the end of the boardwalk though,” said Amodeo. “We all recognize that there are many areas in the city that need improvement. We are fighting to extend the Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit Program eligibility to Atlantic City. This would greatly improve conditions throughout the entire city. ”

“There are many things that need to be done but, most importantly, Atlantic City needs a true partnership with the State of New Jersey. Governor Corzine sat idly by and watched as casinos lost millions of dollars due to a government shut down over the July 4th holiday weekend in 2006,” said Polistina. “Chris Christie understands the gaming industry. He knows Atlantic City is an economic engine, not just for Atlantic County, but for the entire state. He is committed to doing everything he can to help solve our problems, rather than create them.”