Recommendation 1: Implement Comprehensive Bike-Sharing and Micro-Mobility Program
Deploy a destination-wide bike-sharing system with 15-20 stations positioned at key locations including the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, major hotel clusters, the boardwalk inlet area, and mid-town locations along Coastal Highway. Partner with established providers like Lime or Bird to introduce e-scooter and e-bike options with designated parking zones. Example: Similar beach destinations like Santa Monica and Miami Beach have successfully integrated docked and dockless systems that serve both tourists and business travelers. Measurable outcome: Achieve 500+ daily micro-mobility trips during peak convention season within 12 months, reducing short-distance vehicle trips by 20%.
Recommendation 2: Develop Digital Wayfinding and Mobility Information System
Create a dedicated Ocean City Business Events mobile app featuring interactive maps, real-time bus tracking for the Coastal Highway service, walking distance calculators between venues, and accessibility route planning. Install digital wayfinding kiosks at the convention center, major hotels, and boardwalk entry points displaying walking times, transportation options, and points of interest. Example: Destinations like Austin, Texas have implemented comprehensive wayfinding systems that integrate multiple mobility options into single platforms. Measurable outcome: Achieve 60% adoption rate among business event attendees and reduce navigation-related inquiries to hotel concierges by 40%.
Recommendation 3: Expand Pedestrian Infrastructure Beyond Core Boardwalk Area
Extend high-quality pedestrian pathways and lighting along Coastal Highway between 27th Street and the northern reaches of the destination, connecting outlying hotels and venues to the main boardwalk district. Add protected pedestrian crossings at 10-15 additional high-traffic intersections with countdown timers and enhanced visibility features. Install covered pedestrian shelters at bus stops along major routes. Example: Virginia Beach created a continuous multi-use path system connecting their entire resort area. Measurable outcome: Increase pedestrian connectivity score by 25% and reduce pedestrian-vehicle conflicts at key intersections by 35% within 18 months.
Recommendation 4: Create Dedicated Business District Walkability Loop
Establish a clearly marked 2-3 mile "Convention District Walking Circuit" connecting the Roland E. Powell Convention Center with nearby hotels, restaurants, and attractions through enhanced signage, distinctive pavement markings, and curated business event-friendly amenities. Include distance markers, estimated walking times, rest areas with seating, and weather-protected segments. Example: San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter features a well-defined walkable district with clear branding and wayfinding. Measurable outcome: Increase walking trips between convention center and hotels by 30% and achieve 85% attendee satisfaction rating for walkability in post-event surveys.
Recommendation 5: Enhance Evening and Off-Season Pedestrian Safety and Comfort
Upgrade lighting along secondary pedestrian routes and residential neighborhoods west of Coastal Highway that currently lack adequate illumination. Install additional emergency call boxes and increase visible security presence during peak event periods. Create weather-protected walkways or covered connections between major venues for year-round comfort. Implement a seasonal pedestrian ambassador program to provide directions and safety presence. Example: Charleston, South Carolina employs hospitality ambassadors who assist visitors while enhancing safety perception. Measurable outcome: Reduce safety concern reports by 50%, extend comfortable walking hours into evening periods, and increase off-season pedestrian activity by 20%.
