New Project to Bolster Union Beach Against Storms

Governor Chris Christie and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Bob Martin, in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, yesterday announced a $202 million resiliency project that will bolster storm protection for Union Beach, one of the communities hardest hit by Superstorm Sandy.

The majority of funding for the massive flood control project will come from the federal government at $132 million. New Jersey will fund about $53 million and Union Beach will provide $17 million.

“Union Beach has long been one of the most susceptible areas to coastal flooding in New Jersey, a vulnerability that was made all too real when Sandy slammed the town with its record 14-foot storm surge,” said Governor Christie. “As part of our long-term recovery strategy, this $202 million resiliency project will finally give this close-knit community the protection they need and the sense of security they deserve to withstand future storms.”

Overall, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) project will consist of construction of levees, floodwalls, tide gates and pump stations. The project will also rebuild beaches, dunes, and groins, which are jetty-like structures that are designed to slow loss of sand from beaches.

In addition, more than 25 acres of degraded wetlands will be restored to help better absorb flood waters.

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