Strathmere Sign’s a ‘Total Loss’ Claimed Association President

CREST HAVEN – “It’s a total loss,” said Linda Bateman, president of the Strathmere Improvement Association to freeholders July 10.
She showed photographs of the 4-by-6-foot sign that the civic association had paid $4,000 to erect. The money came from the sale of sweatshirts, hats, and t-shirts over two years, Bateman said. Its placement also took several years, she added.
During the county project to place stones near a revetment to prevent Ocean Drive from being washed away by stormwater, and to raise a portion of Ocean Drive north of the Corson’s Inlet Bridge, the contractor had removed the sign. 
At first, the high-density foam sign was placed against a rusted railing.
When she questioned that move, the contractor told her they would “take good care of it.”
Next time she passed, the sign disappeared. After several days of searching, Bateman learned Upper Township had removed the sign. The rear of the sign was also bent, which furthered her dismay.
Once the road is repaired, Bateman said she hoped the sign would be replaced. As yet, an exact location has yet to be found.
Freeholder Will Morey, who oversees the County Engineer’s Office, told Bateman, “You shouldn’t have to be here.”
County Engineer Dale Foster said the contractor is “well aware they have to replace the sign.” He also noted that the county is withholding payment from the job until the sign is replaced.
Morey said he would follow up to ensure the group gets the sign replaced to its satisfaction.
Bateman noted the association’s dues are $10 annually. “We don’t have the money to put out,” and then be reimbursed, she said.
Bateman added she hopes the sign’s new location would be better protected, but still on the north side (Ocean City) to welcome motorists to Strathmere.