Levinson Criticized State Over Atlantic City Hotel Stance
Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson questioned New Jersey's lack of support for the city's tourism industry.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Hotels
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Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson sent a critical letter to Governor Mikie Sherrill regarding the potential closure of the Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel by late 2026. The executive argued that the local tourism sector faces neglect despite supporting 30% of county employment.
Why it matters
The potential loss of a key headquarters hotel threatens Atlantic City's ability to remain competitive for events, as the city has already lost over $107 million in convention business. Levinson contends that current state funding strategies prioritize other New Jersey locations over the needs of the region.
Atlantic City has lost more than $107 million in convention business, hampered by a lack of cellular connectivity and digital signage. Meanwhile, the state has awarded $75 million in tax credits for Asbury Park renovations and is pursuing a 300,000 square foot project in the Meadowlands.
The players
Dennis Levinson
He is the Atlantic County Executive who authored a letter expressing concerns about the local convention and hotel industry.
Mikie Sherrill
She is the Governor of New Jersey who received a formal letter from the county executive regarding regional tourism support.
The details
The city struggles to compete for large-scale events due to a lack of a headquarters hotel that meets modern planner requirements for room inventory and proximity. Local officials have raised concerns that state-backed funding for competing regions further jeopardizes the area's economic health.
Timeline
The Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel faces potential closure before the end of 2026.
Travel Outlook
The dispute over Atlantic City's hotel inventory reflects broader concerns about state-level economic development strategies that prioritize new convention projects in the Meadowlands over established hubs. This dynamic highlights a tension between regional revitalization efforts and competing state-backed redevelopment initiatives elsewhere in New Jersey.
Travelers and event planners should monitor the status of hotel room inventory as the potential 2026 closure date approaches. Visitors may see shifts in available convention services if the city continues to face hurdles regarding infrastructure modernization compared to other state destinations.
The takeaway
Atlantic City's reliance on tourism means its infrastructure remains a vital component of the local economy's stability. Residents and businesses should remain aware that regional development decisions in New Jersey will continue to impact the city's future competitiveness.
Further reading
For more on the current state of local tourism, visit our guide on Atlantic City Hotels.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cat Country 107.3.
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Should state governments prioritize funding for local convention facilities over larger regional development projects?
