Lucy the elephant awarded $350,000 federal grant for interior restoration

Officials say the funding will help restore the interior of the historic 143-year-old Lucy the Elephant landmark in Margate.

Margate City, NJ – Lucy the Elephant, one of New Jersey’s most recognizable historic landmarks, has been awarded a $350,000 grant to support restoration of the structure’s interior.

The Save Lucy Committee announced the funding Friday, noting the grant was secured with the advocacy of U.S. Senator Cory Booker.

Key Points

• Lucy the Elephant received a $350,000 grant for interior restoration work
• The project will repair water damage, replace flooring, and upgrade building systems
• The total cost of the interior restoration is estimated at $1.2 million

Funding supports restoration of historic attraction

Officials say the grant will help fund the next phase of restoration for the 143-year-old National Historic Landmark located along the Margate beachfront.

The planned interior restoration will include repairs to water-damaged plaster walls, resurfacing of wooden floors, replacement of the building’s original HVAC system, and upgrades to the fire suppression system.

The full restoration project is expected to cost approximately $1.2 million.

Senator Booker praised for supporting project

Save Lucy Committee Executive Director Richard Helfant thanked Senator Cory Booker for helping secure the funding in Congress.

Helfant said the support helps ensure the historic structure remains preserved for future generations.

Booker, who has long supported preservation efforts for the landmark, said Lucy has been an important part of the Jersey Shore’s cultural history.

Exterior restoration completed in 2022

Lucy the Elephant underwent a major exterior restoration in 2022 that cost approximately $2.4 million.

The project repaired deteriorating sections of the wooden framing and replaced the structure’s metal exterior cladding before applying a protective coating system designed to preserve the landmark.

Visitor center planned for future expansion

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In addition to the interior restoration, the Save Lucy Committee is planning to begin construction on a new visitor center this spring.

The facility will feature expanded interpretive exhibits, improved accessibility for visitors with disabilities, public restrooms, and a larger retail area connected to the historic attraction.

Officials expect the visitor center project to be completed in 2027.

Lucy the Elephant, built in 1881, remains one of the most famous roadside attractions in the United States and continues to draw visitors from around the world to the Jersey Shore.

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