OC Permanently Cancels Boardwalk Tram Service

OCEAN CITY, Md. – The Boardwalk Tram Service will not be returning after being suspended last year.

According to City Manager Terry McGean, the decision happened because of a plethora of reasons. “Factors that went into it were safety and legal considerations, things that came up during the investigation.”

Trams have operated on the Boardwalk since 1964. However, following last August’s accident where a two-year-old was struck and killed by the tram, the services have not been open for some time.

Renee Hergzog is from Pennsylvania. She said the tram played a pivotal role in her childhood coming to Ocean City. “We have been coming for years, and its always been a staple for us on the boardwalk.”

Renee says the tragic death saddens her – but believes the tram termination could have a terrible impact on the town.

“Now that I’m older, it would be nice to sit on the tramcar, and ride the whole boardwalk. But obviously with a decision made, I’m not gonna have that opportunity.”

Business owners are shaken by news. Ryan Wojcik owns Candy Castle and has his shop right next to a tram station. He tells WMDT, it brought in tons of foot traffic.

“It’s sad, it brought a lot of traffic down from the northern streets, and it even would take traffic up. It’ll definitely be missed.”

In January, Mayor Rick Meehan told WMDT that tram service would not resume until “our operations have been fully re-evaluated and possibly changed to provide for the safest possible tram experience for our residents and visitors.”

Ocean City is still looking at options. McGean stated to WMDT that officials will find tangible solutions for the community.

“While the tram as we know it will no longer be in operation. We’re gonna look at other alternatives, and other exciting things we can do on the boardwalk.”

WMDT will update this story as the City provides new information.