Margate Approves Funding for Lucy the Elephant Renovation
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority has awarded $5.4 million in tax credits to support restoration and expansion projects.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Home Renovation
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The New Jersey Economic Development Authority approved $5.4 million in tax credits to fund major improvements at Margate's historic Lucy the Elephant landmark. The project includes interior restoration and the construction of a new visitor center and restaurant.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to bolster the local economy by modernizing the landmark and increasing tourism throughout the year. The upgrades are designed to stabilize operations at the site, which currently draws 150,000 visitors annually.
The project includes a 2,200-square-foot visitor center and requires $1.2 million in local funding. Interior renovations will address water damage and replace a 32-year-old heating-and-cooling system.
The players
New Jersey Economic Development Authority
This state agency oversees economic growth initiatives and manages the Cultural and Arts Facilities Expansion program.
Save Lucy Committee
This organization operates the historic landmark and manages its ongoing preservation and visitor services.
The details
The Save Lucy Committee, which leases the site from the City of Margate, will manage the project that includes moving a former railroad station to the corner of Atlantic and Decatur Avenue. Nonprofit recipients sell these tax credits through the Cultural and Arts Facilities Expansion program to generate the necessary capital for construction.
Timeline
1902: Sophia Gertzen named the building Lucy the Elephant.
1970: The Gertzen family donated the building to the Save Lucy Committee.
1976: The structure was designated a National Historic Landmark.
October 22, 2026: EDA commissioners met to approve the tax credits.
February 2028: Construction is expected to begin.
Culture Shift
This project reflects a growing commitment to leveraging state tax incentives to preserve cultural landmarks against physical decay. By integrating modern amenities into historic sites, organizations are moving toward sustainable models that balance heritage conservation with modern tourism demands.
Residents can expect improved facility accessibility and a new dining option once construction concludes in 2029. The site remains a vital hub for local tourism, and these enhancements are intended to sustain consistent visitor traffic to the area year-round.
The takeaway
Historic preservation projects often rely on creative financing models to remain viable for future generations. Visitors to local landmarks should look forward to modernized infrastructure that preserves historical character while enhancing daily functionality.
What happens next
Construction on the new visitor center and interior restoration is scheduled to begin in February 2028, with project completion expected by January 2029.
Further reading
Learn more about local preservation efforts in our Home Renovation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Courier-Post.
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