Storms and Erosion Affecting Beaches and Sea Wall
Senator Sean Kean and Assemblymembers Dave Rible and Mary Pat Angelini are pushing for the state and federal governments to provide the funding to allow the sand replenishment of Monmouth Beach to move forward.
The legislators have sent letters to the Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Lisa Jackson and Congressman Frank Pallone urging them to ensure the federal and state shore protection funds be appropriated for this project.
The replenishment project would require federal monies and money from the state Shore Protection Fund. This fund was established in 1992 to support shore protection projects that protect the shore from erosion and coastal storms. These funds are also utilized for emergency shore protection projects in the event of severe storms. As part of the 2009 budget, $9 million dollars from this fund have been redirected to support park operations.
“The shore is one of Monmouth County and New Jersey’s most valuable assets,” said Kean. “It is very important that we take the necessary steps to protect shore towns such as Monmouth Beach from the effects of storms and erosion.”
In the letters the legislators said, “The shoreline in the Borough of Monmouth Beach has been deteriorating since the last beach replenishment in 2003. The erosion of the beach has caused a depletion of the dunes on the beach and is compromising the stability of the seawall. This deterioration has caused some points of the shoreline to be completely under water at high tide.”
“Replenishment programs play an important role in preventing serious flooding and damage to our coastal communities,” said Rible. “These projects are critical in protecting towns such as Monmouth Beach from serious risks.”
Their letter also stated, “I am sure you would agree a healthy beachfront is essential to the environment and quality of life in Monmouth Beach. Moreover, the depletion of the beach could impact tourism which is a major source of income for the Borough and the State of New Jersey.”
According to the Division of Travel and Tourism, New Jersey tourism generated $2.2 billion in state tax revenue in 2007.
“Failure to implement shore protection projects greatly jeopardizes our beaches and the surrounding areas,” said Angelini. “Without replenishment, one storm could devastate the residents and businesses of Monmouth Beach.”
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