Sandy repair begins at last remaining MC shoreline
Deal to Loch Arbour beaches set for replenishment
A close to $40 million federally-funded beach replenishment project from Deal to Loch Arbour begins this week, U.S. Rep Frank Pallone [D-NJ] announced Monday.
The area is the last remaining stretch of Monmouth County beach damaged during the October 2012 hurricane Sandy to undergo recovery.
“As New Jerseyans well know, the fight for Sandy aid has not been easy, but the start of this project is a rewarding milestone in our efforts,” Pallone said in a written statement.”
Funding for the project is a part of a Sandy aid package overseen by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. A total 1.4 million cubic yards of sand will be used to reconstruct the shore line.
“Beaches are a fundamental part of life here on the shore, both for residents and our tourist economy,” Pallone said. “I will continue to fight for replenishment projects to help protect homes and businesses along the Jersey Shore from future flooding and to repair the destruction caused by Sandy.”
The project’s first phase, awarded to Seattle-based Manson Construction, includes lengthening six existing stormwater outfalls as well as the modification of two existing jetties to accommodate tidal flow.
A contract for the second half of the overall project, which includes beach replenishment from Philips Ave in Deal north to Lake Takanasee in Elberon, will be awarded later this year, officials said.
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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