NJEDA CAFE Program Will Support Renovations to Lucy the Elephant

The $5.4 million renovation is part of a broader public funding partnership to restore the original structure and build a new visitors interpretive center

TRENTON, N.J. (October 30, 2026) – Recently, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved a Cultural Arts Facilities Expansion (CAFE) Program award to support Lucy the Elephant in Margate City. Lucy the Elephant is a recognized National Historic Landmark, and this investment into the museum builds upon the NJEDA’s commitment to supporting Atlantic County businesses and economy.

“Lucy the Elephant is more than a beloved landmark, it is a symbol of New Jersey’s rich history and unique character that’s cherished by residents and visitors from around the world,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “The rehabilitation of this historic landmark will support South Jersey’s tourism economy by helping attract more visitors, increase foot traffic for local businesses, and generate investment that benefits residents, entrepreneurs, and communities throughout Atlantic County.”

The Lucy the Elephant Interpretive Visitor Center and Elephant Interior Rehabilitation Project will include the interior restoration of the museum and construction of a new visitor center, completing a five-year preservation plan. Interior restoration includes patching and refinishing water-damaged plaster, repairing moisture-damaged wood, replacing the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, and improving insulation, ventilation, ductwork, drains, and fire suppression systems.

The new center will allow more visitors, including those with mobility limitations, school groups, families, and seniors, to experience and learn about Lucy’s history, architecture, and role in New Jersey’s coastal heritage. The Interpretive Center will offer the Save Lucy Committee (SLC) the opportunity to host programs featuring local artists and performers. Site improvements also include new landscaping, lighting, fencing, and at-grade walkways to enhance accessibility around Lucy and the new building. The project is approved for up to $5.4 million in CAFE Program tax credits.

“This is an extraordinary day for Lucy,” said Richard Helfant, Executive Director and CEO of Lucy the Elephant. “After 17 months of uncertainty and perseverance, we have finally reached a turning point. This approval represents an enormous step forward in our efforts to preserve Lucy for future generations, enhance the visitor experience, and create a destination worthy of one of New Jersey’s most beloved and recognizable landmarks.”

“The City of Margate is thrilled that the NJEDA accepted Lucy the Elephant’s application through its CAFE program. This is a major milestone not only for the Lucy, but the city as a whole,” said Michael Collins, Mayor of Margate. “The new ADA-compliant visitor and interpretive center will provide an opportunity for all to experience our beloved landmark. We are excited to see this project advance forward.”

Built in 1881, Lucy the Elephant stands six stories tall and was originally constructed with the purpose of promoting real estate sales and attracting tourists to the area. In 1976, Lucy the Elephant was officially listed in the National Park Registry of Historic Landmarks and has been consistently ranked the number one roadside attraction by USA Today.

This investment through the CAFE Program is part of a broader public funding partnership that includes funding from the City of Margate, support from the New Jersey Historic Trust, and a federal Congressionally Directed Spending Grant.

“Lucy the Elephant is a defining part of Atlantic County and a landmark that has welcomed visitors for generations,” said Senator Vince Polistina. “Investing in its preservation means protecting that legacy, sustaining tourism, and supporting the local businesses that are vital to our Shore economy. This rehabilitation will help ensure that Lucy remains a fixture in our district for years to come, and I commend the NJEDA and our local partners for helping make it possible.”

“I am thrilled to see this terrific investment made by the state into a South Jersey icon,” said Assemblyman Don Guardian. “The workers and volunteers of the Save Lucy Committee are tireless in their advocacy for our pachyderm treasure, and I commend their perseverance through the application process. Now, Lucy will reach an even wider audience and allow visitors with any accessibility needs to enjoy the very best of the Jersey Shore.”

“Heritage tourism is a vital pillar of Atlantic County’s economic engine, preserving our region’s unique history while generating meaningful economic benefits for local communities. Lucy the Elephant is more than an iconic landmark of the Jersey Shore; she is a major tourism attraction that draws visitors, supports local businesses, and stimulates economic activity throughout the surrounding community,” said Assemblywoman Maureen Rowan. “Providing a tax credit to support Lucy is an investment not only in preserving a treasured historic landmark, but also in sustaining the tourism economy and the local residents who benefit from her continued success.”

This tax credit award represents larger investments made by the NJEDA into Atlantic County, with a particular focus on historic preservation, food security infrastructure, and commercial corridor revitalization. The NJEDA also approved $8.6 million in funding to construct the Aerospace Innovation Center (AIC) in Egg Harbor Township, establishing New Jersey’s first Strategic Innovation Center (SIC) dedicated solely to aviation.

New Jersey’s arts and culture sector contributes billions of dollars in economic activity each year, drives tourism, and enhances quality-of-life for state residents. NJEDA initiatives like the CAFE Program and the Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation (A.R.T.) Program leverage the economic potential of arts and culture projects to boost foot traffic in downtowns and main streets across New Jersey, supporting local small businesses, creating jobs, bolstering engagement with the arts, and strengthening the vibrancy of communities. 

The CAFE Program aims to increase cultural arts activities, attract visitors, boost engagement with the arts in underserved communities, and revitalize downtowns by providing tax credits to build or renovate facilities, including aquariums, historical societies, libraries, galleries, and museums.

About the NJEDA

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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