In the wake of the loss of four of its 12 casinos, Atlantic City is continuing to push for new, non-gambling attractions in a complete rebranding of the city. The latest redevelopment plans include a beachfront giant Ferris wheel and zip line, restaurants, an extension of the Steel Pier and a rebuilt Boardwalk.

The city’s Casino Reinvestment Development Authority has approved the projects in an attempt to make its tourism-centred economy less dependent on the gambling industry.

The 205ft (62.5m) high observation wheel – estimated to cost around US$12m (€10.6m, £7.8m) and designed by Italian manufacturer Technical Park – will have climate-controlled cars and the zip line ride. The 31,500sq ft (2,900sq m) pier extension will accommodate the new development. The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority has provided a US$4m (€3.5m, £2.6m) loan for the project, which is expected to open by the end of this quarter.

Purchased by the Catanoso family in 2011, the Steel Pier is currently undergoing a US$100m (€88m, £65m) renovation, which is creating new rides and restoring some of its heritage attractions. Las Vegas-based architect Paul Steelman is handling the refurbishment.

The planned Boardwalk expansion to support the wheel is due to start by April. The attraction is expected to draw around 500,000 visitors annually.

Atlantic City also looked to be getting a new waterpark development on the site of one of its bankrupt casinos, but complications arose over the sale, which has cast major doubt over the deal going through.