Governor Phil Murphy visited the Asbury Park Boardwalk to emphasize the importance of the Boardwalk Preservation Fund program from his Fiscal Year 2024 Budget. This initiative, which began last year with bipartisan legislation S3989/A5675, allocates $100 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to support Jersey Shore communities in strengthening boardwalk infrastructure.
The fund aims to boost local economies by repairing facilities and improving community centers in nearly 20 towns and cities along New Jersey's shore. In Asbury Park, the funds will be used for new restroom facilities, accessibility upgrades for boardwalk users, and restoration work on Convention Hall and the Paramount Theatre.
"Boardwalks are the lifeblood of communities up and down the Shore as they connect shoppers to small businesses and bring families and friends together," stated Governor Murphy. He highlighted that this $100 million fund ensures these historic attractions receive necessary maintenance to remain resilient for future generations.
In August 2023, a Request for Proposals (RFP) was issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ Office of Disaster Recovery and Mitigation. The DCA prioritized funding for municipalities facing financial distress or projects that improve existing structures' resilience. Environmentally friendly materials are emphasized to ensure safer, longer-lasting boardwalk infrastructure. Projects adding new boardwalks or amenities like recreation areas were also eligible for funding.
"The Boardwalk Preservation Fund is helping our shore communities maintain, repair, and strengthen our boardwalks so they can remain places of joy and inspiration for future generations," said DCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez. She expressed pride in awarding grants earlier this year and anticipated improvements in resiliency, safety, and access resulting from this funding.
Congressman Frank Pallone praised the use of federal funding from the American Rescue Plan to preserve these iconic structures: "Our boardwalks are American icons that so many people recall from memories of the Jersey Shore with family and friends." He applauded Governor Murphy's efforts to support coastal communities through revitalization efforts.
The bipartisan legislation establishing this fund was primarily sponsored by Senator Paul Sarlo, Senator Michael Testa, Assemblyman Louis D. Greenwald, and Assemblyman William Moen; co-sponsors included Senator Vin Gopal and Senator Vince Polistina.
