By Hayden Cole 
Atlantic City has begun work on a new public comfort station at Gardner’s Basin, a waterfront destination visited by boaters and people exploring the Aquarium area. The City of Atlantic City reported on October 14, 2026, that the project includes accessible restrooms, a family restroom and a shower room for boaters. The city expects the improvements to be completed by the start of the 2027 summer season.
What Is Planned for Gardner’s Basin?
According to the city’s project update, the new facility will include:
- Accessible men’s and women’s restrooms with multiple stalls
- A family restroom
- A shower room for boaters, equipped with a combination lock
- Landscaping improvements and a new irrigation system
- Paving for the Seawall parking lot and the street between the lot and the Atlantic City Aquarium
- New curbing and sidewalks in the project area
The project is intended to improve basic visitor amenities at one of Atlantic City’s waterfront destinations. The city says all components are expected to be completed by the start of the 2027 summer season; that is a target timeline, not a guarantee of an exact opening date.
Why the Improvements Matter for Visitors
More accessible facilities
The city says the planned restrooms will include accessible facilities and a family restroom. These features may make visits more convenient for families and people who need accessible amenities. Visitors should check on-site signage and current access arrangements while construction is underway.
Facilities for boaters
The planned shower room with a combination lock is specifically described as a facility for boaters. The city’s announcement does not set out access rules or whether a fee will apply, so boaters should confirm operating arrangements with the city or relevant marina staff closer to opening.
Parking and pedestrian improvements
Repaving the Seawall parking lot and nearby street, along with new curbing and sidewalks, is part of the wider work. Until the project is complete, visitors should pay attention to temporary signs, barriers and any instructions about parking or pedestrian routes.
What Should Visitors Know During Construction?
The project is underway near Gardner’s Basin and the Atlantic City Aquarium. Because work zones can change, do not assume every parking space, sidewalk or access route will remain open throughout construction. Check the City of Atlantic City’s official website for the latest project notices before travelling.
If you are planning an Aquarium visit, our Atlantic City Aquarium visitor guide covers general visit planning. Drivers can also consult our Atlantic City parking guide, while remembering that temporary construction signs take priority over general advice.
When Will the New Comfort Station Open?
The city’s October 14 update says the improvements are expected to be completed by the beginning of the 2027 summer season. The announcement does not provide a specific opening day. Completion and public access may depend on construction progress, inspections and the city’s final operating arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the new comfort station being built?
The project is at historic Gardner’s Basin, near the Seawall and the Atlantic City Aquarium in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
What facilities are planned?
The city lists accessible men’s and women’s restrooms, a family restroom and a shower room for boaters, along with landscaping, paving, curbing and sidewalk work.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The city’s October 14, 2026 update gives the start of the 2027 summer season as the expected completion target.
Will parking or access be affected during construction?
The project includes work on the Seawall parking lot, nearby street, curbing and sidewalks. Follow posted restrictions and check city notices before your visit.
Can the public use the shower room?
The city describes it as a shower room for boaters and mentions a combination lock, but the announcement does not specify access rules. Confirm arrangements with the city or marina staff when the facility is closer to opening.
Check for Updates Before Visiting
The Gardner’s Basin project is a practical waterfront improvement, with accessible restrooms and upgraded pedestrian and parking infrastructure among the planned features. Until the work is finished, visitors should remain flexible and follow any temporary directions. Check the City of Atlantic City’s official website for new information about construction and opening arrangements.