Atlantic City is transforming, and one of the driving forces behind this change is real estate developer Bart Blatstein. Known for his successful ventures in Philadelphia, Blatstein shifted his focus to Atlantic City in 2016. His goal? To turn the city from a primarily casino-based economy into a diverse entertainment hub that appeals to families, tourists, and locals alike. Through significant projects like the Showboat Hotel and the Island Waterpark, Blatstein is changing the face of Atlantic City. Let’s explore his journey, projects, and the positive impact they are having on the city.
Bart Blatstein’s Background and Vision
Bart Blatstein is a real estate developer with a long history of transforming neighborhoods. His company, Tower Investments, has been at the forefront of urban redevelopment, particularly in Philadelphia, where Blatstein revitalized several underutilized areas. He became well-known for turning forgotten spaces into vibrant, successful communities.
In 2016, Blatstein purchased the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City, signaling the start of his efforts to rejuvenate the city. The Showboat had previously operated as a casino but was closed in 2014 due to financial struggles. Instead of reopening it as a casino, Blatstein chose to transform it into a family-friendly hotel. His vision was clear: Atlantic City needed more than casinos to attract a diverse range of visitors.
Blatstein recognized the potential for Atlantic City to become a year-round destination for families and tourists. His decision to focus on non-casino entertainment was a bold move, one that has since set the tone for his other developments in the city.
Check Also: Venerated Celebrities
The Showboat Hotel: A Family-Friendly Destination
When Blatstein acquired the Showboat Hotel, many questioned his decision to not reopen the casino. But his focus was on creating a space for families. By transforming the Showboat into a family-friendly hotel, Blatstein opened the door for new visitors who may not have been drawn to the city’s casino scene.C
One of the most significant additions to the Showboat under Blatstein’s ownership was the Lucky Snake Arcade. This 100,000-square-foot arcade offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. From classic arcade games to the latest video games, it is designed to provide fun and entertainment for families. The arcade also includes a sports bar, creating a space where both kids and adults can enjoy their time.
The decision to add the Lucky Snake Arcade is part of Blatstein’s strategy to diversify Atlantic City’s offerings. The city has long been reliant on its casino industry, but Blatstein saw the need to appeal to a broader audience. By focusing on family-friendly attractions, Blatstein is helping Atlantic City become a more inclusive destination.
The Island Waterpark: A New Kind of Attraction
One of Bart Blatstein’s most ambitious projects in Atlantic City is the Island Waterpark. Opened in July 2023, this $100 million indoor waterpark is the largest indoor beachfront waterpark in the world. Located next to the Showboat Hotel, it is designed to be a year-round attraction, thanks to its retractable roof.
The Island Waterpark offers a wide variety of attractions, including water slides, pools, and a lazy river. There are also party rooms available for private events, making it a great destination for families, groups, and tourists. With its location right on the beachfront, the Island Waterpark is a unique addition to Atlantic City’s entertainment landscape.
Blatstein’s decision to build the waterpark was driven by his belief that Atlantic City needed more non-casino attractions to draw in visitors. While the city has long been known for its casinos, there is a growing demand for family-friendly activities. The Island Waterpark addresses this need, providing a space where families can spend time together and enjoy everything Atlantic City has to offer.
Collaborations and Support
Blatstein has faced challenges in his efforts to revitalize Atlantic City. Revitalizing a city that has struggled economically for years is no small task. However, his collaborations with local businesses and stakeholders have been crucial to his success.
One key partner in Blatstein’s efforts has been Parker Interior Plantscapes, a company that specializes in creating green environments in urban spaces. Together, they have worked on ensuring that Blatstein’s developments, such as the Island Waterpark, offer not just entertainment, but also sustainable, aesthetically pleasing environments.
Blatstein’s efforts have also received strong support from Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small. The mayor has praised Blatstein’s focus on non-casino attractions, emphasizing the importance of diversifying the city’s economy. Projects like the Island Waterpark and the Showboat Hotel are seen as key drivers of economic growth, helping to create jobs and attract new visitors to the city.
Overcoming Criticism and Challenges
While Bart Blatstein’s projects in Atlantic City have been widely praised, they have also faced criticism. Some question whether his developments can succeed in a city that has long relied on its casino industry. Others are concerned about the long-term viability of the city’s shift toward non-casino entertainment.
However, Blatstein remains confident in his vision. He believes that Atlantic City’s future lies in offering a diverse range of attractions that appeal to a broader audience. By focusing on family-friendly projects and sustainable development, Blatstein is positioning his projects for long-term success.
Blatstein’s experience as a developer has helped him navigate these challenges. His previous work in Philadelphia, where he transformed several neighborhoods into thriving communities, has given him the expertise to take on complex projects like the revitalization of Atlantic City. His focus on creating sustainable, community-focused developments will likely play a key role in ensuring the city’s future success.
The Future of Atlantic City
As Bart blatstein atlantic city continues to invest in Atlantic City, the question is: what’s next? His projects have already had a significant impact on the city, attracting new visitors and creating jobs. But there is still more work to be done to fully transform the city.
Blatstein has hinted at future developments, including additional entertainment venues and potential residential projects. His goal is to create a city that offers something for everyone, from families looking for a vacation destination to young professionals seeking a vibrant place to live and work.
One area that Blatstein is particularly focused on is sustainability. His partnership with Parker Interior Plantscapes and other green-focused companies is part of his commitment to creating environmentally friendly developments. As the world becomes more aware of the need for sustainability, Blatstein’s focus on green development will likely play a significant role in shaping Atlantic City’s future.
Conclusion: Bart Blatstein’s Lasting Impact
Bart Blatstein Atlantic City efforts to revitalize Atlantic City are a testament to his vision and commitment to sustainable development. By focusing on family-friendly entertainment and non-casino attractions, he is helping to diversify the city’s economy and create new growth opportunities.
Projects like the Island Waterpark and the Showboat Hotel are just the beginning of Blatstein’s broader plan to transform Atlantic City into a destination that appeals to a wide range of visitors. While there are challenges ahead, Blatstein’s experience as a developer and his focus on sustainability will likely ensure that his projects have a lasting impact on the city’s future.
