|
Washington – In response to Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr.’s (D-NJ) request for funding from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pallone announced Wednesday that $7.5 million will go to fund beach replenishment in Monmouth Beach and possibly parts of northern Long Branch. This $7.5 million is in addition to roughly $2.5 million that has been banked for this project through funding secured by Pallone in previous years. The $7.5 million will allow the Army Corps to begin this project. Including state funding already in place, the contract will be in the range of $12 million -$14 million dollars.
“This funding is vitally important for the Shore and I commend the Army Corps of Engineers for responding to my funding request for these projects,” said Pallone. “Beach replenishment projects make it possible for millions of people to enjoy the Jersey shore every summer, and come hurricane season, provide a protective barrier to beachfront communities.”
Tight budget constraints and an aversion to targeted funding for all projects nationwide were obstacles that Pallone overcame in fighting for New Jersey funds. The money was approved as part of the fiscal year 2011 continuing resolution that funded the government through the end of the year and was approved in April. This is the largest funding allocation to this project in recent years.
The Army Corps will begin work on these projects later this year.
In addition to this beach replenishment project, the Army Corps of Engineers also approved funding for three additional projects. The South River Flood Control Project was allocated $250,000, which will allow the Corps to continue with the Preconstruction, Engineering and Design phase. The Shark River maintenance dredging project was allocated $496,650 for maintenance dredging, which will enable the Corps to dredge the river's inlet this year. Also, $207,000 was allocated for the Raritan and Sandy Hook Bay, Highlands project, which will enable the Corps to complete the feasibility study.
|
