House Authorizes $55 Million Beach Replenishment Project for Cape May County

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Frank A. LoBiondo (NJ-02), a senior member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, announced that several provisions he secured to benefit South Jersey under the 2016 “Water Resources Development Act” have been approved by the House of Representatives. Included within the bill is a $55 million authorization for the construction Hereford Inlet to Cape May Inlet replenishment project.
“As we have seen from Superstorm Sandy and subsequent storms, our beaches and dune systems are vital in protecting people and property. This legislation approved by the House authorizes a critical storm protection program in Cape May County and now allows for federal funding to be applied to local projects,” said LoBiondo. “While I have secured more than $245 million in beach replenishment funding with more than $172 million for Cape May County, I will continue to fight for South Jersey’s fair share and to ensure our waterways and coastal communities are protected.”
The legislation, which was passed by the full House on a vote of 399 to 25, funds the following projects championed by LoBiondo:
• A $55 million authorization for Hereford Inlet to Cape May Inlet for enhanced storm protection through the creation of a new dune and periodic renourishment for the communities of North Wildwood, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, and Lower Township. (Note: Federal funds cannot be appropriated without such projects first being authorized.)
• Delaware River Basin Restoration Program – based on legislation introduced by Rep. John Carney (DE-at-large) and cosponsored by LoBiondo, this provision would create a strategy to coordinate restoration and protection activities across the basin.
Earlier this month the U.S. Senate passed their version of the 2016 Water Resources Development Act. Both versions will now be reconciled for differences.