ATLANTIC CITY — A major residential transformation is underway in Atlantic City’s Northeast Inlet neighborhood, where developer Keith Groff says construction is moving quickly on his Lighthouse Row project and changing the landscape of an area that has seen little new market-rate housing development in decades.
Groff joined the “AC Mike Lopez Radio Show” on News Talk 1400 and 92.3 WOND to discuss the progress of Lighthouse Row, where crews are currently building multiple new homes across several blocks near the Inlet.
“A lot of construction, a lot of pile driving going on right now,” Groff told host Mike Lopez. “It’s a beautiful thing. We’ve got multiple blocks getting brand new homes built as we speak right now. Not down the line, not in the future, but right now.”
Groff said the project’s second phase is moving faster than the first because many of the same contractors and tradespeople from the original phase have returned and already understand the process.
“Everything was so great on the first phase,” Groff said. “I retained like 90 percent of them. Everybody knows what to do, when to do it, and everyone’s lined up.”
The developer said crews began work about two months ago and are currently installing HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems. He expects the homes to be substantially completed by September or October — ahead of the timeline for the first phase.
“Last time we did it in seven months. This time we’re looking to do it in about five months,” Groff said. “Super nuts. All stick-built, no prefab. We’re doing everything right there.”
Groff also clarified details about the pricing of some Lighthouse Row homes following coverage of a recent groundbreaking ceremony. He said some reports mistakenly listed prices as high as $1.5 million, when the correct figure is $1.05 million for certain end units featuring unobstructed views, balconies off every bedroom and views of the Atlantic City skyline and lighthouse.
He said demand is already building for the new homes, with potential buyers expressing interest as construction progresses.
The development comes as other major residential projects move forward in Atlantic City, including planned projects from larger builders such as K. Hovnanian and Ryan Homes. Groff said the involvement of national builders adds credibility and could accelerate growth in the neighborhood.
“When K. Hov comes in and Ryan Homes — which are national builders, publicly traded on the stock exchange — that adds a lot of validity,” Groff said. “It’s not just Keith Groff doing his dream. This is people coming in to make money and they know how to market.”
Groff believes the combined developments will create a significant shift in the character of the Inlet.
“It’s not just tearing down a house and replacing it,” he said. “This is an entire city block being built from nothing. It’s a massive change to the neighborhood.”
He said new homeowners, more foot traffic and more activity in the area will help create a different atmosphere.
“The energy of the neighborhood, the vibe, the safety feel with people walking around, people out on balconies and decks all the time from nothing — it’s a massive shift,” Groff said.
Lopez noted that Atlantic City has not seen significant private, market-rate residential development on this scale in many years outside of casinos, high-rise projects and Stockton University’s expansion.
Groff said the difference with Lighthouse Row and similar projects is that they are being built through private investment and market demand rather than government subsidies.
“These will be homes, market rate, built with private investors’ money,” Groff said. “It’s a big difference.”
Groff said he is already thinking about future projects even before Lighthouse Row is complete.
“I can’t wait to start the next project,” he said. “It’s not even done, not even half done, and I’m already like, ‘I’ve got to get something else going.’”
For more information about Lighthouse Row, Groff said interested buyers can contact him directly at 609-634-1789.
The full interview aired on “The AC Mike Lopez Radio Show,” heard weekdays from noon to 1 p.m. on News Talk 1400 and 92.3 WOND.
About the Author
Peter Killeen
A 25-year radio news veteran, Peter covers South Jersey for NewsTalk 1400 & 92.3 WOND radio. Known for his concise and impactful delivery, he ensures listeners and readers stay informed without unnecessary filler.
