Don Guardian Has The Answer To Atlantic City, NJ Boardwalk Fires

Earlier this week, we conducted an on-air interview with New Jersey Assemblyman Don Guardian about the repeated Boardwalk fires that are occurring in Atlantic City.

Guardian is a former popular and successful Mayor of Atlantic City and he spent more than two decades effectively leading the Special Improvement District in Atlantic City.

During our Thursday, November 16, 2023 program, Guardian sent me a text message in real time which read, “Do you want a call-in … why we went 20 years without a fire under the Boardwalk?”

I was more than intrigued. Of course, we went right to Guardian to find out what they had previously done for 20 years to prevent boardwalk fires in Atlantic City.

Guardian explained that every single morning, they raked the sand directly underneath the Boardwalk.

Next, they proactively patrolled the Boardwalk from above. They were able to see if there were footprints, or if the sand below was disturbed in any way.

It was a simple and effective strategy. You don’t get lucky for 20 years. Consistency and persistence always pays off.

Guardian and his working partners made it a priority and they delivered consistently excellent results.

By comparison, Atlantic City has had multiple Boardwalk fires during 2023 … each started from beneath the Boardwalk … on February 3, 2023, near the Ocean Casino Resort … on March 6, 2023, near The Garden Pier and this past Wednesday, November 15, 2023, underneath the Boardwalk at Resorts Casino Hotel Atlantic City.

Here are photos from the year 2023 Boardwalk fires:

The reason why there was not a Boardwalk fire for 20 years versus 2023, when they have become a regular occurrence is clear.

Previously, there was a focus and commitment to proactively work the problem.

That sense of urgency does not exist today.

Today’s Atlantic City governmental leaders should sit down with Guardian and “pick” his brain.