SMG has shored up its position on the Jersey Shore. The company has announced the renewal of multi-year contracts for two leading venues located in world-famous New Jersey beaches—the Atlantic City Convention Center, Boardwalk Hall and the Wildwoods Convention Center.
"SMG is extremely pleased to be able to continue the dynamic partnerships that we have developed in Atlantic City and the Wildwoods," said Wes Westley, President/CEO SMG. "Both destinations are experiencing explosive growth and we are honored to be a part of this intense revitalization. We understand the value of operating world-class facilities to entertain our guests in and we will strive to provide nothing less for our clients in the future."
Since 1995, SMG has managed the Atlantic City Convention Center and Boardwalk Hall on behalf of its clients the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority and the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority. "We are thrilled that SMG will be managing our facilities for at least another five years," said Jeff Vasser, Executive Director for the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority. "They have done a tremendous job for us and have become a seamless part of our team. I look forward to continue working with true professionals".
Opening in May 1997 with nearly 500,000 contiguous square feet of space, and occupying a site of nearly 31 acres, the Convention Center is one of the East Coast’s largest convention facilities. It continues to attract a host of prestigious public shows and conventions including the Atlantic City International Powerboat Show, Atlantic City Classic Car Show, the Mid-Atlantic Hardscaping Trade Show, and the New Jersey Education Association Convention. The Center has garnered a number of awards including the Prime Site Award from Facilities and Destinations magazine, among others.
Boardwalk Hall, which was originally constructed in 1929, underwent a dramatic three-year, $90 million renovation and restoration in 1998 that transformed the historic Hall into a modern special events arena capable of seating 14,500. It has been touted as the destination’s premier entertainment venue, known for high profile concerts, family shows, and sporting events. Boardwalk Hall is reported to be one of the highest grossing mid-sized arenas in North America.
The 260,000-square-foot Wildwoods Convention Center has been managed by SMG since opening in May 2002. SMG manages the venue on behalf of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority and the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority. "We are very pleased that SMG will remain part of the management team here at the Wildwoods Convention Center," said John Siciliano, executive director of the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority. "Their presence, in our small facility, enables us to tap into a very wide array of management services and expertise that benefits us greatly in our operation."
At a cost of $68 million, the beachfront facility replaced a small, antiquated building erected in 1971. The Center now offers 72,000 square feet of exhibit space and serves as the destination’s main attraction for conventions, public shows, concerts, weddings, and meetings in the Wildwoods. Notable events include the annual New Jersey Fireman’s Convention, the Boardwalk Basketball Classic, the Roar to the Shore Motorcycle Rally, and Fabulous 50’s and Sensational 60’s Weekends. |