Keaton PetersEighteen municipalities across New Jersey will receive a total of $100 million in grants to renovate boardwalks to improve safety, ADA accessibility and strength against storms.
The Jersey shore is known for its historic wooden boardwalks, which bring tourists and opportunities for local businesses. But most are decades old, and over the years the weather has worn down the oceanside infrastructure. The funds will cover expenses for renovations that will modernize the boardwalks, add amenities and increase their resilience.
“Our boardwalks have long been a prized destination and we want to keep them that way by helping shore communities repair and maintain these wooden main streets,” Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement. “The grant awards announced today are a meaningful step in preserving the health and dynamism of these special places.”
The funds are available through the state’s Boardwalk Preservation Fund and administered by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. Only existing boardwalks were eligible to receive funding.
“We recognize that boardwalks are the economic driver for many shore towns and cities. They are also incredibly expensive for local governments to maintain, repair, and strengthen,” said Jacquelyn A. Suárez, acting commissioner for the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
Atlantic City and Asbury Park received the largest awards with $20 million each. North Wildwood received $10 million, and Wildwood City received $8 million. The grants to the other 14 municipalities ranged from about $7 million to $450,000.
The Asbury Park project will include replacing boardwalk decking, railings and benches. Plans also call for building two bathrooms and repairing an adjoining Convention Hall.
“These funds will help the City provide needed improvements that enhance the beachfront user experience for our residents and tourists alike,” Asbury Park Mayor John Moor said in a press release.
In Wildwood, boardwalk repairs are already underway with replacements of timber framing and decking. The concrete supports are also receiving repairs and a fresh protective coating. The Wildwood City project, which has already received state funding in the past, will include new sidewalks and pedestrian tunnels under the boardwalk, in addition to new landscaping, bike racks and ADA-accessible ramps.
Other common features of projects funded through the Boardwalk Preservation Fund include new staircases and railing, expanding boardwalk sections and helping retail businesses along the boardwalks with repairs at their facilities.
“We are confident these grant awards will help our boardwalks thrive and continue to inspire and delight visitors for years to come,” Suárez said.
Strategic Partnerships, Inc. can provide information on contract opportunities, plus existing and future government funding. For more information, contact research@spartnerships.com.
Photo by Acroterion
