Mayor Ed Johnson of Asbury Park

I love Asbury Park. Many of my best childhood memories are tied to this city, and I never imagined myself living back in this area as an adult. Just as my life has undergone many changes over the years, and so has Asbury Park. For better or worse, change is inevitable, and this city has seen it all. Mayor Ed Johnson has served Asbury Park for the past fifteen years as Mayor, City Councilman, and Chairman of the Urban Enterprise Zone. During his service, he has committed himself to the growth and development of Asbury Park as one community in which everyone shares in both the benefits and responsibilities of a 21st Century Jersey Shore City. Mayor Johnson has presided over the resurgence of Asbury Park as a residential community with an attractive and growing business center as well as a thriving tourist destination. In October of 2013, Superstorm Sandy arrived and laid waste to the Jersey Shore coastline including Asbury Park. Rebuilding has been underway for months and the Mayor has a message to share: “We’re getting ready for the summer of the century in Asbury Park. This is the stuff history books are made of,” he said. “This is the new chapter of Asbury Park … get ready for great things here.” In other words – Asbury Park is open for business!

Mayor Johnson is a member of Mayors Against Illegal Guns, a gun control advocacy group co-chaired by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Boston Mayor Thomas Menino. He’s also a strong advocate for accessible quality education. Asbury Park Mayor since 2005, this will be his last term. And what’s in the cards next for Johnson? He’ll share that and more, so be sure to tune in. After the interview, please check out After Hours at Jersey Coastal Live for additional information.