Ocean City Development Corporation discusses potential boardwalk tram models

OCEAN CITY, Md. – For the past two years, the 2.5 mile stretch of boardwalk in Ocean City has been without a tram system, leaving boardwalk businesses, and even residents, missing it’s presence. Ocean City Development Corporation heard these concerns, and has now begun research for a safer tram model.

Zach Bankert is the executive director for OCDC, and explained the demand for the trams return.

“It’s something that we’ve very consistently heard from the business community.” Said Bankert. “We’ve also heard from the residents and from the visitors. And then most recently, we held a boardwalk business forum in late August. And that was the number one issue that we heard.”

The tram system, which was created in 1964, was closed permanently in 2025 following a tragic incident that claimed the life of a two year old.

OCDC has begun researching alternative options for a new tram, and have found possible models in New Jersey beach towns. One of those models that sticks out to the team, is the tram that services the Atlantic City boardwalk.

“It’s a smaller vehicle, it has better braking.” Said Bankert. “It’s not as long, it’s not as wide. It has a better turning radius, it has a better driver position. There’s a lot of safety features that we like that the Atlantic City model has right now.”

Mayor Matt James stated that he would support the return of a boardwalk tram if it can be done safely.

“Safety has to be first, the first priority almost in everything we do.” Said James. “So, this is no different.”

The next step, is for OCDC to create a presentation to show their findings to the mayor and council.