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As the Loch Arbour to Deal beach replenishment concludes, all eyes shift to the federally funded project’s second phase that runs north toward Elberon.

U.S. Rep Frank Pallone Jr. [D-NJ] announced this week that the Army Corps of Engineers, who oversees the project, awarded the $86,722.10 contract to Manson Construction. The Seattle-based company conducted the first phase of the project.

The beach replenishment is funded by the federal Sandy aid package. This is the last remaining stretch of Monmouth County beach damaged during the October 2012 hurricane Sandy to undergo recovery.

“After a hard fight in Congress for the Sandy relief funding New Jersey deserves, I am glad to see this important beach replenishment project poised for completion,” Pallone said. “Beaches are a fundamental part of life for residents and the tourist economy, and they must be protected and maintained.  I will continue to fight for replenishment projects to help protect our homes and businesses along the Jersey Shore.”

This second phase will restore the area stretching from Lake Takanassee in Elberon to Philips Avenue in Deal and is expected to be completed next year.

This contract will cover the placement of 3 million cubic yards of sand, with a  total 1.4 million cubic yards of sand used to replenish the shore line. It also includes lengthening 10 existing stormwater outfalls.

Pallone said the project called for the repair of six jetties but after concerned citizens, fishermen, surfers and other recreational users voiced opposition the figure was dropped to three. The jetty repair includes a Deal Casino, Marine Place and the Phillips Avenue location.

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