FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 25, 2024

 Pallone Marks Final Phase of Port Monmouth Flood Project, 12 Years After Sandy 

 Port Monmouth, NJ –  Twelve years after Superstorm Sandy devastated Port Monmouth, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. returned today to launch the final phase of the Port Monmouth Storm Risk Reduction Project. 

 Joined by representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Pallone reflected on the progress made and the federal investments driving it. “This project began as a promise after Sandy—to rebuild smarter, stronger, and protect our communities from climate change,” said Pallone. “With this final phase underway, Port Monmouth will finally have the protection it needs for the future. This is a model for how the federal government can partner with local communities to safeguard our coastline.”

The $61.8 million phase includes floodwalls along Highway 36, drainage systems, levees, and road closure gates along Compton Creek between Campbell Avenue and Broadway. These improvements are designed to protect homes, businesses, and infrastructure from storm surges and rising sea levels.

Pallone, instrumental in securing funding through the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act of 2013, highlighted the personal impact of the project. “It’s impossible to forget the destruction Sandy brought here,” Pallone said. “This isn’t just about flood protection—it’s about restoring security to the Bayshore and ensuring families and businesses don’t live in fear of the next storm.”

The project, part of a broader effort to improve New Jersey’s coastal resilience, is fully funded by the USACE and expected to be completed in 2028. When finished, it will include extensive beachfill, wetlands mitigation, tide gates, concrete floodwalls, raised roads, and interior drainage improvements to manage heavy rainfall and storm surges. 

Today’s milestone underscores the importance of federal investments in confronting the realities of climate change and protecting New Jersey’s coastline. 

 “This contract award represents our ongoing commitment to safeguarding coastal communities against the increasing threat of severe weather events,” said Colonel Alex Young, Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District. "Partnering with a capable small business underscores our dedication to supporting local enterprises while delivering essential flood risk management solutions." “Today marks a historic step for climate resilience efforts in New Jersey,” Commissioner LaTourette said. “We are deeply grateful to our partners at the Army Corps of Engineers and our Congressional delegation for their commitment to the completion of this project. More than a decade in the making, this project provides valuable community flood protection against future storms and sea-level rise, while enhancing and protecting the Raritan Bay shorelines and marsh systems that provide critical wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities. I am proud to join Congressman Pallone and Colonel Young to celebrate the award of this contract that will enhance climate resilience, create jobs and secure a stronger future for Port Monmouth.”

May 20, 2019 Middletown Township Committee Meeting

This past Monday at the Middletown Township Committee meeting, the Township Committee presented a proclamation to recognize the 2019 Mayors For A Day. Five elementary school students were selected from various schools in the township to represent their schools as Mayor for a day.

Ordinance 2019-3255 was adopted to provide the Army Corps of Engineers access to township owned property to aid in Phase 2 of the Pt. Monmouth flood control project. The properties designated are the former skate park and the commuter parking lot at the corner of Wilson Ave and Rt. 36.

A number of residents from the Hartshorne Woods area came to inquire when their roads would be repaired. They were especially concerned about Indian Hill Rd, which they said is washing away. The elected officials said the road would be paved by September.



As always you can download a copy of the Meeting Agenda that contains the discussion items and the proposed resolutions and ordinances that were voted on or presented during the meeting. A box around an item is a link, bringing you further into the document to that resolution or ordinance. At the end of the resolution there will be a link bringing you back to the agenda. Attached to this agenda is also the monthly bill list, so that everyone can see how the Township is spending our tax dollars.

Pallone & Army Corps of Engineers Announce New Contract for Second Phase of Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project in Port Monmouth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 17, 2016


Long Branch, NJ --- Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a second contract for Phase II of the Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project in Port Monmouth. The $23,146,120.00 Contract 2 includes constructing a levee/floodwall, pump station, and a storm gate, tying into the existing Keansburg levee. The funding is part of the $110 million allocated for Port Monmouth in the Sandy relief package that Pallone worked to secure in 2013. The contract was awarded to Anselmi & DeCiccio of Maplewood, New Jersey. The overall project is broken up into six contracts, and includes constructing a system of levees, floodwalls, a tide gate, road closure structures, mitigation, road raising and pump stations. The first contract of $13,696,687.00 for Phase II was awarded in July to Kyle Conti Construction of Hillsborough, New Jersey.

Congressman Frank Pallone Jr.

"Many in Port Monmouth faced serious flooding during Sandy and I am glad to see another important step taken towards phase two being completed," said Pallone "All along the Bayshore, flooding has become an increasingly common phenomenon as severe storms have become more frequent and residential and commercial development has increased. The work being done here will strengthen our local infrastructure, reduce future damage, and keep our communities safe."

"The award of the Port Monmouth Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project Contract 2 is another critical step in the Corps' efforts to increase resiliency measures for this community," said COL David Caldwell, Commander, USACE, New York District. "Large storm events will always be a threat, so it's critical we continue to do all we can to help mitigate potential flood damage and increase resiliency to vulnerable communities like Port Monmouth. That's why we now have a second announcement of a contract award for the next elements just 30 days after breaking ground on Phase 2 of the Port Monmouth Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project . I am pleased to say we're moving to construction as aggressively as possible thanks to the support of the community, leaders, and elected officials. Port Monmouth is on its way to becoming much more resilient."

The first phase of the project was successfully completed in June of 2015 and included dune restoration, beach replenishment, groin work, extension of the fishing pier, and construction of protective dunes. The entire $110 million effort will offer significant protection to the area, which has suffered frequent flooding, erosion and damage from rain and coastal storms in recent years. The Army Corps of Engineers hopes to complete the entire project by 2020.

Last month, Congressman Pallone joined Colonel David A. Caldwell, Commander of the New York District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bob Martin, Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection and Middletown Mayor Gerard Scharfenberger, to mark the beginning of construction for Phase II of the project in Port Monmouth.

Pallone, Army Corps and DEP Announce Beginning of Construction for Phase II of $105 million project for Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction in Port Monmouth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 20, 2016


Long Branch, NJ – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) joined Colonel David A. Caldwell, Commander of the New York District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bob Martin, Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection and Middletown Mayor Gerard Scharfenberger, to mark the beginning of construction for Phase II of the Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project in Port Monmouth.

In July of 2016, the Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $13,696,687.00 contract to fulfill this second phase of the project. The plans for Phase II include constructing a system of levees, a floodwall, a tide gate, road closure structures, road raising and pump stations The awarded contract is specifically for the construction of the flood wall and a road closure gate east of the existing Keansburg levee. Phase I was successfully completed in June of 2015. This contract is part of the estimated $105 million project to protect Port Monmouth, and is paid for by funds in the Sandy relief package that Pallone worked to secure in 2013.

“All along the Bayshore, flooding has become an increasingly common as severe storms have become more frequent and residential and commercial development has increased,” said Pallone. “That’s why I’m pleased to see this project moving forward with the funds we worked to secure after Sandy. I will continue to work with the Army Corps of Engineers and DEP to ensure that Phase II is completed on budget and in a timely manner.”

“Today marks an important milestone for this critical project, which will ultimately see floodwalls, levees, a tide gate, road closure structures and pump stations throughout Port Monmouth,” said Bob Martin, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. “The Port Monmouth Coastal Storm Risk Reduction project will provide protection to low-lying residential and commercial structures. It marks another key component in the Christie Administration’s plan to bring greater resiliency to coastal and flood-prone areas of the state.”

"The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District, is thrilled to have reached this significant milestone in the groundbreaking of Phase 2 for the Port Monmouth Coastal Strom Risk Reduction Project," said Col. David Caldwell, Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers New York District. "We're in the middle of another Hurricane season and though we haven't been directly impacted, I believe the events taking place in other parts of the country re-emphasize the need to continue increasing the resiliency of our towns and communities with robust flood risk reduction projects like those currently underway in Port Monmouth. This brings us one step closer to that goal."

“The start of the Port Monmouth Flood Control Project’s second phase is a welcome sight since it means we’re another step closer to recovery after Superstorm Sandy,” said Mayor Gerry Scharfenberger, Ph.D.. “Port Monmouth homeowners and businesses will be safer in the future thanks to the flood control measures that are being constructed. The Army Corps of Engineers has been doing a great job and we are looking forward to seeing the project completed.”
The first phase of the project was completed in June of 2015 and involved dune restoration, beach replenishment, groin work, extension of the fishing pier, and construction of protective dunes. The Army Corps of Engineers estimates the project will be completed in its entirety by 2019.

Pallone & Army Corps of Engineers Announce Second Phase of the Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project in Port Monmouth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 22, 2016


Long Branch, NJ --- Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $13,696,687.00 contract for the Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project in Port Monmouth. The contract will help fulfill the project’s second phase, which includes constructing a system of levees, a floodwall, a tide gate, road closure structures, road raising and pump stations. The funding is part of the $110 million allocated for Port Monmouth in the Sandy relief package that Pallone worked to secure in 2013. The contract was awarded to Kyle Conti Construction of Hillsborough, New Jersey.

“Many in Port Monmouth faced serious flooding during Sandy, unlike anything this community has ever seen,” said Pallone “All along the Bayshore, flooding has become an increasingly common phenomenon as severe storms have become more frequent and residential and commercial development has increased. The work being done here will strengthen our local infrastructure, reduce future damage, and keep our communities safe. I have been working to bring this project to fruition for years, so I’m pleased that the second stage is underway.”

The first phase of the project was successfully completed in June of 2015 and included dune restoration, beach replenishment, groin work, extension of the fishing pier, and construction of protective dunes. The entire $110 million effort will offer significant protection to the area, which has suffered frequent flooding, erosion and damage from rain and coastal storms in recent years. The Army Corps of Engineers hopes to complete the entire project by 2019.

ICYM - Pt Monmouth Flood Control Project Info Session Oct 29

Middletown Public Information - 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District, in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), will be holding a public information session to provide a status update on the Port Monmouth Flood Control Project which will include briefing the current alignment, phases and features of the project with some visual aids. The Corps will also provide an update on the status of the upcoming construction contracts.

Details concerning the public information session are as follows:

Date: October 29, 2015
Time: 7-9 PM Location: VFW Post 2179 , 1 Veterans Ln
Port Monmouth, NJ 07758 , (732) 787-0999

The Port Monmouth Flood Control project involves the construction of about 7,070 feet of levees, 3,585 feet of floodwalls, 2,640 feet of dune, and beach renourishment at 10-year intervals along the Raritan Bay and Sandy Hook Bay in Port Monmouth Middletown Township, Monmouth County, New Jersey. The Army Corps of Engineers will execute 5 construction contracts in order to complete this project. The entire project cost is an estimated $105M. The first contract involved building a new groin, pier extension, dune and beach berm system. It also included 2,640 feet of protective dunes with a wide flat beach berm in front of the dune and nourishment of the beach with roughly 400,000 cubic yards of sand. The project was completed in June 2015 and cost roughly $18M.

Detailed design work is ongoing for work to be accomplished in the 2nd phase of the Project which will include a system of levees, floodwall, closure gates, pump stations, road raising and other elements to reduce risks from coastal flooding. The Corps expects to begin awarding contracts for the 2nd phase in May 2016.

Video: Pallone Announces The Completion Of The Port Monmouth Hurricane & Storm Damage Reduction Project

Last Monday afternoon, Congressman Frank Pallone held a press conference at the Seabrook Wilson House (Located in Bayshore Waterfront Park) to announce the completion of the first phase of the Port Monmouth Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project.

If you couldn't attend the press conference below is a video of it. There is a lot of very good information there that should be of interest to many residents living in and around the area of Port Monmouth.

Pallone stated:

“The Port Monmouth flood control project will protect homes and businesses in our area from future flooding,” said Congressman Pallone. “I have worked for years to bring this project to fruition, so I’m especially pleased to announce the completion of the critical first phase. Port Monmouth, like so many other coastal New Jersey communities, faced serious flooding during Hurricane Sandy. All along the Bayshore, flooding has become an increasingly common phenomenon as severe storms have become more frequent and residential and commercial development has increased. The project strengthens our local infrastructure, reduces the risk of future flood damage and will keep our community safe.”

Pallone Announces Completion of Phase One of Port Monmouth Flood Control Project

LONG BRANCH, NJ – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced the completion of the first phase of the Port Monmouth Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project. This $18 million project will reduce the risks that coastal storms pose to residents and businesses in the Port Monmouth area. The project is federally funded through the Sandy relief package that Pallone fought for and helped to pass in Congress. For the announcement in Bayshore Waterfront Park, Congressman Pallone was joined by Colonel David Caldwell, Commander of the New York District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

“The Port Monmouth flood control project will protect homes and businesses in our area from future flooding,” said Congressman Pallone. “I have worked for years to bring this project to fruition, so I’m especially pleased to announce the completion of the critical first phase. Port Monmouth, like so many other coastal New Jersey communities, faced serious flooding during Hurricane Sandy. All along the Bayshore, flooding has become an increasingly common phenomenon as severe storms have become more frequent and residential and commercial development has increased. The project strengthens our local infrastructure, reduces the risk of future flood damage and will keep our community safe.”

The first phase of the project included dune restoration, beach replenishment, groin work, extension of the fishing pier, and construction of protective dunes. Pallone highlighted the fact that the project will address major flood prevention to protect the low-lying residential and commercial areas in the Port Monmouth section of Middletown Township.

The project’s second phase will include constructing a system of levees, a floodwall, a tide gate, road closure structures, road regarding and pump stations. The entire $105 million project will be funded by the Sandy relief package and will offer significant protection to the area, which has suffered frequent flooding, erosion and damage from rain and coastal storms in recent years. The Army Corps of Engineers expects to begin awarding contracts for the second phase in May 2016 so that construction for the full project could be completed by 2019.

Pallone Announces Completion of Federal Dredging Project in Belford

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29, 2015


WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced the completion of the dredging of the Shoal Harbor and Compton Creek federal channel in Belford, New Jersey. The project, which began in February, was completed with federal funds from the Sandy relief package that Congressman Pallone fought for in Congress.

“Projects like this, to help us come back stronger than ever from Sandy, are vital to the Jersey Shore economy,” said Congressman Pallone. “With the dredging complete, boaters and businesses, like the Belford Seafood Co-op, that depend of the navigability of these waterways will benefit.”

The Army Corps of Engineers contracted with M.E.R.I.T. Inc., a small business located in Newark, for $3.4 million to complete the project. With the federal funding, approximately 135,000 cubic yards of material were dredged from the Compton Creek and Shoal Harbor channel in order to maintain accessible waterways after Superstorm Sandy.

Pallone Announces Work to Begin on $2.88 Million Belford Dredging Project

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 2, 2015

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the dredging of Shoal Harbor and Compton Creek in Belford, New Jersey will begin within the next week. The Army Corps of Engineers awarded the $2.88 million contract to M.E.R.I.T. Inc., a small business located in Newark, New Jersey. The project will be completed with federal funds from the Sandy relief package that Congressman Pallone fought for in Congress.

“Projects like this are vital to our Jersey shore economy,” said Congressman Pallone. “This dredging in Belford will bring much needed relief to local boaters and businesses that depend on these waterways being navigable, like the Belford Seafood Co-Op and the Belford Ferry. I am glad that the Army Corps of Engineers is undertaking these critical projects as we continue to recover from Superstorm Sandy.”

This contract provides $2,884,910.00 in federal funding to remove 160,000 cubic yards of sand from the Compton Creek and Shoal Harbor channels in order to maintain accessible waterways after Superstorm Sandy.

“So many local fishermen depend on these waterways being accessible. Dredging Compton Creek and Shoal Harbor will allow our boats to move in and out of these waters more easily, especially after so much excess material accumulated as a result of Superstorm Sandy,” said Roy Diehl, President of the Belford Seafood Co-Op. “I want to thank Congressman Pallone for working to secure the funds necessary to complete this important project.”

Pallone Announces Release of Study to Improve Coastal Resiliency in New Jersey

Lessons Learned from Superstorm Sandy Can Help Reduce Impact of Future Storms, Climate Change

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has released a report detailing the results of a two-year study to address storm and flood risk to vulnerable populations, property, ecosystems, and infrastructure in areas severely affected by Superstorm Sandy.

The study, known as the North Atlantic Coast Comprehensive Study, is designed to help the federal government, states, and local communities better understand changing flood risks associated with climate change and to provide tools to help those communities better prepare for future storms. Federal funding for this study was provided by the Sandy aid package, which Pallone fought for in Congress.

“I am hopeful that this report will help federal, state, and local governments mitigate the adverse effects of future disasters,” said Congressman Pallone. “This study builds on the lessons we learned from Superstorm Sandy and allows officials to use the latest science and tools to ensure that New Jersey coastal communities are resilient to the impacts of climate change, as well as future storms.”

Through the study, the Army Corps of Engineers has developed a nine-step "Coastal Storm Risk Management Framework," which will help officials identify and reduce risks in their town or state and can be customized for different coastal areas. The report also analyzed the potential impacts of sea level rise on areas effected by Superstorm Sandy and found that more attention must be paid to bayside areas where the effects of sea level change will be felt first.

Pallone Announces Contract Awarded for Beach Replenishment Project from Southern Deal to Loch Arbour

LONG BRANCH, NJ – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the contract for beach replenishment from southern Deal to Loch Arbour has been awarded. The project will cover the area stretching from Philips Avenue in Deal south to Loch Arbour. The Army Corps of Engineers awarded the contract for the $38,283,230 project to Manson Construction Company. Work to replenish this stretch of the shore will begin in spring 2015. A contract award for the second half of the overall project, which includes beach replenishment from Philips Ave in Deal north to Lake Takanasee in Elberon, will be awarded later this year. The funding for this project is part of the Sandy aid package that Congressman Pallone fought for in Congress.

“I’m pleased that the Army Corps is moving forward with this important investment that will help to protect homes and businesses along the Jersey Shore from future flooding and repair the destruction caused by Sandy,” said Congressman Pallone. “Our beaches are a fundamental part of life here on the shore, both for residents to enjoy and also to drive tourism. I have fought for this and other beach replenishment projects for years because I know how important they are to protect some of our most fragile coastal infrastructure.”

This contract will cover the placement of 1,400,000 cubic yards of sand for reconstruction of the shoreline from Deal to Loch Arbour. It also includes lengthening six existing stormwater outfalls, as well as modification of two existing groins.

Originally, the Army Corps had planned to notch six groins, also known as jetties, between Elberon and Loch Arbour. However, after meeting with Congressman Pallone and concerned citizens, including fishermen, surfers and recreational users in the area, the Army Corps agreed to only notch three groins within the project area. Two groins, one at Deal Casino and the other at Marine Place, will be notched as a part of the southern Deal to Loch Arbour contract, and a third groin at Phillips Avenue will be notched under the forthcoming contract that will cover Elberon to northern Deal. The Army Corps is also working with the Deal Lake Commission to finalize plans to install an electronic gate in the Deal Lake Flume to allow the outfall to be cleared efficiently if it were to become blocked by sand, an issue which was also discussed at last year’s meeting.

"Awarding this contract, which is the first of two contracts, for the Elberon to Loch Arbour storm risk reduction project will enable the Corps to begin working on completion of the last remaining section for the 21 miles of shoreline between Sea Bright and Manasquan" said Col. Paul Owen, commander, Army Corps of Engineers, New York District. "This project is another example of great teamwork for our continued efforts to increase resiliency on the Jersey Shore in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. We have had great cooperation between the State, local municipalities, public, and political interests as we have worked together to refine and complete the plans for the project and finally award the first of two construction contracts. Once complete, this project will provide additional beach erosion control and storm risk reduction to coastal communities in New Jersey.

Pallone Announces Funding for Shrewsbury River Dredging, Monmouth Beach Dune Creation

6/25/14

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $1.79 million contract to H&L Contracting LLC to dredge the Shrewsbury River which runs through Monmouth County, New Jersey. The project will entail removing 60,000 cubic yards of sand in order to keep the Shrewsbury River channel navigable. The contractor will place the dredged sand onto the oceanside beach in the Borough of Monmouth Beach.

Congressman Pallone also announced that Monmouth Beach, New Jersey will receive $1.78 million in federal funds provided by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s (NFWF) Hurricane Sandy Coastal Resilience Grant Program, on behalf of the Department of the Interior, to create 6,400 feet of coastal dunes in the area. This allocation to Monmouth Beach is a portion of more than $102.7 million in federal grants for areas at risk from future storms. The town will use the material dredged from the Shrewsbury River project to create the dunes in Monmouth Beach.

“This is truly a win-win,” said Congressman Pallone. “The Shrewsbury River will have a better navigation channel for local boaters and the dredged material will be put to beneficial use to help Monmouth Beach create dunes that will protect the area from future storms. I am so pleased that we can move forward with both projects and that they will be completed in sync to benefit our community.”

Congressman Pallone sent a letter to the NFWF in January 2014 urging that this funding be granted to Monmouth Beach, which was significantly affected by Superstorm Sandy. The new dune system will provide resiliency against future storms and help with the rising sea levels. It will also provide an important habitat to various plants and wildlife, including several endangered species such as the Piping Plover, Least Tern and Black Skimmer.

Sand removal from the Shrewsbury River could begin as early as September 2014. The sand will be pumped onto the beach starting at approximately 0.23 miles north of Seacrest Road, proceeding southward as necessary to place the dredged sand. To do so, a discharge pipeline for a small hydraulic dredge will cross under Route 36 and over the existing seawall, continuing along the shoreline east of the seawall.

Pallone Announces Changes to Jetty Notching Plan for Elberon to Loch Arbour Beach Replenishment Project

Deal Lake Flume Also Discussed at Follow-up Meeting with Fishermen

LONG BRANCH, NJ – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) hosted a meeting with the Army Corps of Engineers and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to revisit concerns previously expressed by fishermen, surfers and recreational users regarding the Elberon to Loch Arbour Beach Replenishment project. Today’s discussion followed up on an April 2014 meeting that Pallone hosted with concerned citizens after the Army Corps released their initial draft proposal for the replenishment project.

Originally, the Army Corps had planned to notch six groins, also known as jetties, between Elberon and Loch Arbour. However, in response to the first meeting, the Army Corps presented a revised plan today that will only notch three groins within the project area. The Corps announced that they will not be notching the groins at the end of Whitehall Ave. in Deal, Roseld Ave. in Deal, and Cedar Ave. in Allenhurst.

There was also discussion at today’s meeting of constructing shallower notches than originally planned in order to allow access across the notches during low tide. The Army Corps is examining the possibility of that option with the three groins in Deal that will be notched, including Phillips Ave., Deal Casino, and South of Deal Esplanade near Marine Pl.

“I agree with the concerns that many have voiced with respect to notching the groins in this area and the impacts that it may have on recreational fishing,” said Congressman Pallone. “This new plan is a compromise with the Army Corps. I want to thank all the fishermen and other residents who took the time to submit comments and voice their concerns throughout this process.”

The Deal Lake Flume was also discussed at today’s meeting with Congressman Pallone. The Army Corps agreed to install an electronic gate which would allow the outfall to be cleared efficiently if it were to become blocked by sand. All parties agreed that there was no need to extend the Deal Lake Flume farther into the ocean. Instead, there would be improved monitoring of the sand placement by the Corps during the project to avoid any excessive placement of sand in the area of the flume.

Today’s meeting also confirmed that the Army Corps will insist that towns maintain existing beach access points and parking areas and will explore the possibility of new access points in the project area from Lake Takanassee to Deal Lake.

The contract for the Elberon to Loch Arbour Beach Replenishment Project is expected to be awarded in October or November 2014 and work will start soon after, weather permitting.

Pallone Announces Start of Port Monmouth Flood Control Project

For Immediate Release:
6/13/14

PORT MONMOUTH, NJ – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Colonel Paul Owen, Commander of the New York District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, announced that work will begin on the first phase of the Port Monmouth Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project. This $17.7 million project will reduce the risks that coastal storms pose to residents and businesses in the Port Monmouth area. The project is federally funded through the Sandy relief package that Pallone fought for and helped to pass in Congress in January 2013.

(Phase I)

"I am so glad that work is beginning on this crucial project that will protect so many homes and businesses in our area from future flooding,” said Pallone. “Many in Port Monmouth faced serious flooding during Sandy, unlike anything this community has ever seen. All along the Bayshore, flooding has become an increasingly common phenomenon as severe storms have become more frequent and residential and commercial development has increased. The work being done here will strengthen our local infrastructure, reduce future damages, and keep our community safe. I have been working to bring this project to fruition for years, so I’m pleased that it is finally underway.”

This first phase of the project will include dune restoration, beach replenishment, groin work, extension of the fishing pier, and construction of protective dunes, which will involve roughly 400,000 cubic yards of sand. Pallone highlighted the fact that this flood control project will address major flood prevention to protect the low-lying residential and commercial areas in the Port Monmouth section of Middletown Township.

(Phase II)

The project’s second phase will include constructing a system of levees, a floodwall, and nearby pump stations. The entire $110 million project will be funded by the Sandy relief package and will offer significant protection to the area, which has suffered frequent flooding, erosion and damage from rain and coastal storms in recent years.

Congressman Pallone and Colonel Owen were joined by Stephanie Murray, Mayor of Middletown; Tony Mercantante, Middletown Township Administrator; and George VanBuskirk, a Port Monmouth homeowner.

*****
Photos courtesy of Linda Baum

Pallone & Army Corps of Engineers to Announce Start of Port Monmouth Flood Control Project

PORT MONMOUTH, NJ – On Friday, June 13th at 10:00a.m., Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Colonel Paul Owen, Commander of the New York District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will announce that work is set to begin on the first phase of the Port Monmouth Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project. This $17.7 million project will reduce the risks that coastal storms pose to residents and businesses in the Port Monmouth area. The project will be federally funded through the Sandy relief package that Pallone fought for and helped to pass in Congress in January 2013.

This first phase of the project will include dune restoration, beach replenishment, groin work, extension of the fishing pier, and construction of protective dunes, which will involve roughly 400,000 cubic yards of sand. Pallone will highlight the fact that this flood control project will address major flood prevention to protect the low-lying residential and commercial areas in the Port Monmouth section of Middletown Township.

Congressman Pallone and Colonel Owen will be joined by Stephanie Murray, Mayor of Middletown; Tony Mercantante, Middletown Township Administrator; and George VanBuskirk, a Port Monmouth homeowner.


WHO:
Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06)
Colonel Paul Owen, Commander, New York District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Stephanie Murray, Mayor, Middletown
Tony Mercantante, Middletown Township Administrator
George VanBuskirk, Port Monmouth homeowner

WHAT:
Announce Work to Begin on Port Monmouth Flood Control Project

WHERE:
Seabrook Wilson House (Located in Bayshore Waterfront Park)
719 Port Monmouth Road
Port Monmouth, NJ 07758

WHEN:
Friday, June 13, 2014
10:00am

Pallone Announces Contract Awarded for $2 Million Belford Dredging Project

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the Army Corps of Engineers has awarded the contract for dredging Shoal Harbor and Compton Creek in Belford, New Jersey. The $2 million contract has been awarded to M.E.R.I.T. Inc., a small business located in Newark, New Jersey. The project will be completed with federal funds from the Sandy relief package passed by Congress in January 2013.

“I am pleased to announce that a contract has been awarded and that work can soon begin on this dredging project in Belford. Projects like this are vital to the Jersey shore economy,” said Congressman Pallone. “This dredging will bring much needed relief to local boaters and businesses that depend on these waterways being navigable, like the Belford Seafood Co-Op and the Belford Ferry. I am glad that the Army Corps of Engineers is undertaking these important projects as we continue to recover from Superstorm Sandy.”

This contract provides $2,411,290.00 in federal funding to remove 89,455 cubic yards of sand in order to maintain accessible waterways after Superstorm Sandy. The project is set to begin in June 2014.

Pallone Statement on Elberon to Loch Arbour Beach Replenishment Project

Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) issued the following statement regarding the Elberon to Loch Arbour Beach Replenishment Project. Pallone’s statement comes in response to a rally held in Asbury Park on Friday, March 21 where residents gathered to voice concerns over plans to replenish a 3.5 mile section of beach stretching from Lake Takanassee in the Elberon section of Long Branch to Deal Lake in Loch Arbour.

“I would like to thank all of you for taking the time to express your concerns regarding the Elberon to Loch Arbour Beach Replenishment project. First, I encourage all of you here today to formally submit your concerns and comments on this project in writing if you have not done so. The best method to do this is to email your concerns to Jenifer Thalhauser at Jenifer.E.Thalhauser@usace.army.mil. The deadline to submit comments is Wednesday, March 26, 2014.

Many of you in attendance have reached out to me to express your concerns with the proposed project. I understand your concerns with respect to notching the groins in this area and the impacts this may have on recreational fishing. I am discussing this issue with the Army Corps of Engineers and trying to find a resolution that does not negatively impact fishermen in the area.

I have also heard concerns regarding sand building up in the Deal Lake Flume, causing a blockage of the flow between the lake and ocean. I have raised this issue with the Army Corps and they are planning monitor the flume and clear any sediment buildup that occurs throughout the project. We will also look at the possibility of reconfiguring the placement of sand in the area adjacent to the flume. One long-term solution may be to extend the Deal Lake Flume to limit the amount of sand that can block its flow.

The buildup of sediment in Deal Lake from Superstorm Sandy is another issue that must be addressed. I am pleased that $1 million in federal funds has been allocated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service to remove sediment from the lake. I understand this will not address all of the sediment buildup in the lake and will look into the possibility of additional state funds for this work.

I look forward to working with all of you as this important project progresses. Please feel free to reach out to my office with your concerns throughout this process. Thank you.”

Pallone & Army Corps of Engineers to Announce Progress on Beach Replenishment and Flood Control Projects

KEANSBURG, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Colonel Paul Owen, Commander of the New York District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will announce details to the Keansburg and Sandy Hook to Barnegat Inlet flood control and beach replenishment projects that will be completed to restore damage to the Jersey Shore caused by Superstorm Sandy. The work to be done by the Army Corps will improve these projects beyond damage from the devastating storm.

Pallone previously announced that the projects would be funded by the Sandy Aid package that passed Congress in January. These projects will provide an unprecedented investment of hundreds of millions of dollars in beach replenishment and flood protection in the Sixth Congressional District. At the event, Congressman Pallone and Colonel Owen will outline the scope and timeline of this critical infrastructure work that will help protect the Jersey Shore from storms.

WHO:

Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06)

Keansburg Mayor Arthur Boden

Colonel Paul Owen, Commander, New York District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

WHAT:

Announce Work Beginning on Keansburg Beach Replenishment Project

WHERE:

Keansburg Waterfront Library,

55 Shore Blvd.

Keansburg, NJ

WHEN:

Monday, February 24, 2014

11:45am-12:30pm

Pallone Announces Agreement Signed to Begin Port Monmouth Flood Control Project

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that this morning, Jo-Ellen Darcy, Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works), signed the Port Monmouth Project Partnership Agreement, the contract between the Army Corps of Engineers and the state of New Jersey formally outlining the terms and conditions of Port Monmouth flood control project. Construction on the project will move forward in the coming months. The project will be constructed by the Army Corps of Engineers with federal dollars from the Sandy relief package passed by Congress in January 2013.

"I am glad to hear that the Army Corps of Engineers and the state of New Jersey have reached an agreement and that construction on this crucial project, which will protect homes and businesses from future flooding, can begin,” said Pallone. “Many in Port Monmouth faced serious flooding during Sandy. All along the Bayshore, flooding has become an increasingly common phenomenon as severe storms have become more frequent and residential and commercial development has increased. I am pleased that this project will finally be underway.”

Pallone announced that the Army Corps of Engineers will address major flood prevention to protect the low-lying residential and commercial areas in the Port Monmouth section of Middletown Township. The plans will include the construction of nearly 7,070 feet of levees, 3,585 feet of floodwalls and 2,640 feet of dune and beach renourishment. The entire $91 million project will be funded by the Sandy relief package and will offer significant protection to the area, which has suffered frequent flooding, erosion and damage from rain and coastal storms.

The Army Corps of Engineers will likely begin advertising the first portion of the project in March 2014, with the contract scheduled to be awarded in May 2014. This phase of the project includes dune restoration, beach replenishment, the construction of a terminal groin and extension of the fishing pier, involving roughly 400,000 cubic yards of sand. The larger flood control aspect of the project, which includes levees, floodwalls, a pumping station and a tide gate, is slated to begin construction in 2015.