Washington, D.C. --- U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) today secured $4 million in federal funds for the design and construction of a new recreational pier in Long Branch. Pallone said he hopes the federal funds will help the city attract additional money from state and other sources to move forward on the project, which is of historical significance to the city.

"From when I was a child, the Long Branch pier was a focal point for recreational activities in the city," Pallone said. "It was the pride of Long Branch. I hope the new pier will accomplish the same purpose in the near future.

"The fishing pier was always the best place to fish at the Jersey Shore, and is the most important part of this project as far as I am concerned," the New Jersey congressman continued.

The City of Long Branch plans to turn the site into a regional tourist hub that includes a fishing pier, a ferry terminal, food and entertainment services, events and exhibitions, and an ecology museum.

"The ferry terminal provides an alternative way for people to visit Long Branch and the Monmouth County shoreline without having to worry about traffic or parking," Pallone continued.

The funds were included in the Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users ("TEA-LU"), a $285 billion six-year transportation reauthorization bill that was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives today. The bill now awaits consideration by the U.S. Senate.