New Jersey coastal city clashes over proposal to transform amusement park into luxury hotel

Officials in New Jersey sparked mixed reactions after voting to pave the way for the redevelopment of a former iconic amusement park. Gillian's Wonderland Pier in Ocean City was a Jersey Shore landmark that entertained families for decades. David Gillian founded Gillian's Fun Deck around 1930. Roy Gillian began operating the business as Gillian’s Wonderland Pier in 1965. The park became known for its carousel, monorail and 144-foot Giant Wheel. It closed in October 2024 after years of mounting f