WILDWOOD ─ Recently, questions have arisen concerning the extensive dune project slated for the length of the Five Mile Island; comprising Wildwood, North Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest.
The project is spearheaded by the Army Corps of Engineers in conjunction with “non-federal entity” the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
From the federal, state, county, and local level, all three municipalities seek to be involved in the process, especially Mayor Carl Groon of Wildwood Crest, seeking what is most beneficial for the borough.
Questions circulated the apparent “hold-up” in the design and execution of the project. Though the municipalities are involved and occupy one island, each section of beach presents unique considerations for the Army Corps and DEP.
Wildwood Commissioner Peter Byron commented on behalf of the city: “It’s in the hands of the Army Corps.” Byron also added that the project seems to be “kind of in limbo.”
The Herald contacted Freeholder Will Morey, also a local business owner. After deliberation, Morey said, “I’m enthusiastic about the project.” On behalf of Cape May County, Morey said that the “county has a real interest” in the project and believes it will add “value” to the area. Morey said the county would work “side by side with the towns” as the process continues.
For more answers, the Herald contacted the Philadelphia office of the Army Corps of Engineers.
Spokesman Steve Rochette, on behalf of the corps, said: “I’m not aware of one (delay).” Rochette further explained the nature and purpose of the extensive dune project is to “reduce storm damage.”
In light of Winter Storm Jonas, neighboring North Wildwood suffered significant erosion.
According to Rochette, the project is “still in the design phase” with a potential start date in late 2017. Working out details with the DEP is also in progress.
Groon expressed his desire for the corps to “realize the major impact on our community” the project entails.
Concerns for handicap access points and view issues also enter Groon’s thoughts on behalf of the borough.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.
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