The Manasquan Inlet to Barnegat Inlet beach replenishment project cleared a major hurdle as the U.S. House of Representatives voted to authorize over $200 million dollars for the project, U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ)—who worked tireless to secure the authorization—announced today.

    By a vote of 395-24, the House passed the “Water Resources Development Act of 2007” (WRDA)(H.R. 1495) which authorizes funding to cover construction for the Manasquan Inlet to Barnegat Inlet beach replenishment project, as well as the estimated total for periodic beach nourishment for the 50-year life of the project.

    "In New Jersey, we understand both the eternal value, as well as the ecological fragility, of our beaches. I am committed to protecting and preserving our beaches for future generations and the federal investment authorized by WRDA is a very positive step in that direction," said Smith, who to date has helped secure appropriated funds that total over $3.3 million for the Manasquan to Barnegat Beach Replenishment project.

    Specifically, WRDA would authorize a total cost of project to be $71,900,000 with an estimated federal cost of $46,735,000 and an estimated non-federal cost of $25,165,000 and an estimated total of $119,680,000 for periodic beach nourishment for the 50-year life of the project with a 50/50 federal and non federal cost sharing. 

    "Anyone who has visited the beautiful stretch of beaches between the Manasquan Inlet and Barnegat Inlet in the past several years has noticed the severe erosion that has taken place, jeopardizing this section of our coastline," Smith said. “Beach replenishment and renourishment projects are essential to the overall health of our beaches, and in turn the welfare of our coastal communities, so it is imperative that this project moves forward.”

    Located in Ocean County, this vital beach replenishment project stretches 17 miles from Point Pleasant Beach South to Island Beach State Park. 

    The authorization in WRDA is an important step toward securing the funds necessary for the Army Corps of Engineers to complete the remaining portions of the project. The bill will now be referred to the Senate for consideration.

    “House passage of WRDA marks an important breakthrough in federal support for the shore. I will continue to work in concert with my colleagues from New Jersey and across the country to ensure that this authorization remains in the final bill that is sent to the President,” said Smith.