Cape May, New Jersey: Coastal Charm with Timeless Appeal

Living in Cape May, New Jersey, is like residing in a postcard filled with scenic beauty and historic elegance. As the nation's first seaside resort, this picturesque town continues to enchant residents and visitors alike with its stunning Victorian architecture and pristine beaches. The unique charm of streets lined with colorful gingerbread houses, each narrating a piece of history, makes for more than just a pretty view—it offers a sense of belonging to a vibrant, welcoming community.

Cape May invites you to embrace life by the shore with an effortlessly laid-back vibe. Here, the Atlantic whispers soothing melodies, inspiring not only relaxation but also a lifestyle intertwined with nature. Capture breathtaking sunsets at Sunset Beach or indulge in fresh seafood delicacies that reflect the flair of local culinary artisans.

Whether you’re exploring the lush trails at Cape May Point State Park or enriching your cultural senses at one of the town's numerous arts festivals, Cape May nourishes the soul with its eclectic array of activities and a supportive community ethos. In Cape May, every day feels like a celebration of simple pleasures seasoned with endless opportunities for joyful discovery.

Justin Riggs, Deputy City Manager, Cape May, New Jersey

HelloNation Staff Writer

In a place like Cape May, where history, tourism, and community identity intersect, local leadership requires both precision and perspective. Deputy City Manager Justin Riggs has demonstrated both, earning recognition as a Local Government Champion by the National League of Cities and the National Academy of Public Administration through the LocalGov250 initiative.
The designation honors leaders who are helping shape the future of local governance as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary. For Riggs, the recognition highlights the importance of operational leadership in communities where seasonal demand, economic activity, and infrastructure needs must be carefully balanced.
Cape May presents a unique governance environment. As one of the country’s most historic seaside destinations, it experiences fluctuations in population and activity that can challenge even the most well-prepared municipalities. Managing those shifts requires coordination, adaptability, and a clear focus on service delivery.
Local government works best when it anticipates challenges and responds with clarity, consistency, and purpose.
Riggs’ role as Deputy City Manager places him at the center of that response, helping ensure that city operations remain efficient and aligned with both resident and visitor needs. From public services to planning and administration, the work involves connecting strategy with day-to-day execution.
The LocalGov250 recognition shines a light on leaders who excel in that space, where success is often measured not by visibility but by effectiveness. In Cape May, that effectiveness supports not only residents but also the broader regional economy tied to tourism and hospitality.
Riggs will be recognized alongside fellow honorees at the International City/County Management Association conference in Philadelphia, where municipal leaders gather to exchange ideas and highlight best practices. The acknowledgment reflects the strength of Cape May’s leadership team and its commitment to thoughtful governance.
For the community, the recognition underscores the importance of steady, responsive leadership in maintaining both quality of life and economic vitality. In a town where expectations are high and demands can shift quickly, that kind of leadership is essential.
As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, it is clear that the future of local governance will be shaped by leaders who understand both the details and the broader picture. In Cape May, that work continues through leadership that keeps the city running smoothly, no matter the season.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Nestled at the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May is emerging as a strategic location for light industrial, warehousing, and marine-related businesses. The city benefits from its proximity to major highways like the Garden State Parkway and US Route 9, as well as access to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, which provides unique logistical advantages for distribution and supply chain operations across the Delaware Bay region.

Recent investments in the Cape May County Airport Business Park have expanded opportunities for industrial tenants, with modern flex space and infrastructure upgrades attracting both established companies and new ventures. The area’s industrial market remains competitive, with low vacancy rates and ongoing demand for specialized facilities—particularly those supporting the maritime, food processing, and renewable energy sectors.

Cape May’s workforce is supported by regional training initiatives and partnerships with local institutions. The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development offers tailored programs to upskill workers, while the county’s economic development office assists employers with recruitment and customized training solutions.

On the incentives front, New Jersey’s suite of business assistance programs—including the Grow NJ program and the Economic Redevelopment and Growth (ERG) program—can help offset costs for expanding or relocating businesses. Cape May County also provides local support for site selection and infrastructure improvements, ensuring projects can move forward efficiently.