The implosion of the gutted tower, for many, symbolized the end of Trump’s time in this gambling resort town that saw it grow to four casino hotels and eventually fall to numerous financial setbacks, four bankruptcies and property sales.
Small has said Trump contributed to the early days of the city s casino industry, creating jobs while making a lot of money. But he was selfish, took advantage of some people, hurt some people... and stiffed some, he added.
At a news conference after the dust had settled Wednesday, Small said the implosion was not about politics, Donald Trump or President Trump but about an opportunity that doesn t come along often to redevelop one of the best properties in town.
But he was selfish, took advantage of some people, hurt some people . and stiffed some, he added.
Vineland, New Jersey, residents Bill Cavallo and Dennis Campanella were among the first people at Bader Field Wednesday morning to witness implosion.
They arrived together shortly before 7 a.m. EST and secured a front-row parking spot along the water.
“Just a part of Atlantic City history, something cool to see,” said Cavallo, 50, who witnessed The Sands Atlantic City implosion in 2007 as well. “We got here early, have a good view and figure we’ll hit the casinos for a little bit after.”
For Campanella, Wednesday’s implosion marked a first for him.
The Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino just got demolished
The Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City has been demolished, ending a nearly 40-year run at the New Jersey shore.
Trump Plaza opened in 1984 and was once a key aspect of former President Donald Trump’s sprawling real estate portfolio. The casino was shuttered in 2014, and the building has since fallen into disrepair and had to be demolished, city officials recently said.
Billionaire investor Carl Icahn currently owns the site and has not announced future plans for it, according to CNN affiliate WPVI. Onlookers flocked to the area to watch the implosion and nearby hotels offered special packages for prime views.