Casino Reinvestment Development Authority and Visit Atlantic City Partnership Entertainment Strategy Delivers Results

The strategic partnership between the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) and Visit Atlantic City is producing measurable results, with a coordinated entertainment initiative generating more than $1 million in revenue while creating more than 3,000 jobs and $1.26 million in wages for local workers.

Following the February 2025 consolidation of leisure marketing under Visit Atlantic City, CRDA and Visit Atlantic City established a disciplined framework for evaluating entertainment investments based on audience diversity, revenue potential, and job creation metrics.

The first major initiative under this structure brought five world-class events to historic Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall over 12 non-consecutive days in 2025: the Eimantas Stanionis vs. Jaron Ennis boxing championship, Stevie Nicks, Vybz Kartel, Lil Wayne, and The Who. The intentionally diverse programming attracted different audiences from across the region, generating 24,200 work hours and substantial economic impact across multiple sectors.

“Our partnership with Visit Atlantic City ensures entertainment decisions are based on an analysis of potential impact,” said Eric Scheffler, CRDA Executive Director. “These results validate that approach: significant revenue generation, thousands of jobs created, and proof that Atlantic City can attract diverse, world-class entertainment.”

The diverse programming proved critical to success. Vybz Kartel drew Caribbean communities from New York and Philadelphia, Lil Wayne brought younger hip hop audiences, Stevie Nicks and The Who attracted classic rock fans from around the world, while the Ennis fight pulled boxing enthusiasts nationwide. From stagehands and security personnel to hospitality workers and vendors, the economic impact extended well beyond ticket sales.

“This initiative shows how strategic partnerships and compelling entertainment help tell Atlantic City’s story to new and returning visitors,” said Gary Musich, President and CEO of Visit Atlantic City. “By working with the CRDA and our citywide partners to bring diverse, world-class events to the destination, we’re driving visitation, expanding our audience reach, and reinforcing Atlantic City’s position as a dynamic, must-visit year-round destination.”

“This initiative proves our restructured approach works,” said Modia Butler, CRDA Board Chair. “The metrics speak for themselves: more than $1 million in revenue and 3,000 jobs created, demonstrating what strategic collaboration can do for our community.”