Improvements to the Grassy Sound Fishing Pier include the replacement of the existing bulkhead and construction of a new pier. (Photo courtesy of Cape May County)
Rejuvenated after a $3 million makeover, the formerly dilapidated Grassy Sound Fishing Pier in Middle Township will reopen to the public for fishing and crabbing after being closed for nearly three years.
Cape May County officials will join with Middle Township Mayor Chris Leusner and other local dignitaries for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting on Friday, June 13, to celebrate the reopening. The ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. at 13 Old North Wildwood Boulevard East, adjacent to Grassy Sound Marina.
“We are excited to see the reopening of the Grassy Sound Pier as we head into the summer season,” Cape May County Board of Commissioners Director Leonard Desiderio said in a news release. “The Board of Commissioners has been steadfast in our support of great projects that enhance the public’s access to our waterways and support opportunities for affordable, outdoor recreation for residents and visitors alike.”
The Grassy Sound Fishing Pier had been a popular fishing and crabbing destination for generations. However, it has been closed for nearly three years due to structural concerns.
In 2024, Cape May County approved a nearly $3 million contract for the rehabilitation of the pier.
The project involved the removal of the existing dilapidated fishing pier, replacement of the existing bulkhead, and construction of a new pier with improved lighting and signage, handicap access and parking upgrades.
The original pier structure was built on the remains of the old Grassy Sound Bridge linking Middle Township and North Wildwood. The county-owned facility will continue to provide free public access for fishing and crabbing once it is reopened.
Middle Township has managed the facility since 2007 through a lease arrangement with the county. Concluding the rehabilitation and construction of the pier, Middle Township will provide routine maintenance and service to the site through a shared services agreement with the county, according to the news release.
Colliers Engineering & Design Inc. provided project management and design consulting services for the project and South State Inc. was the construction contractor.
