Gov. Phil Murphy Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023 signed legislation establishing the Boardwalk Preservation Fund. Here he greets Assemblyman Don Guardian.
ATLANTIC CITY NJ Gov. Phil Murphy today signed a bill establishing the Boardwalk Preservation Fund at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.
The fund appropriates $100 million for the renovation and repair of boardwalks in shore communities across the state. Primary sponsors of the legislation include Sens. Paul Sarlo and Michael Testa, Assemblymen Louis D. Greenwald and William Moen. It was co-sponsored by Sens. Vin Gopal and Vince Polistina.
From Atlantic City to Asbury Park, for decades our state's boardwalks have served as iconic fixtures in our shore communities, contributing not just to their local economies but to their unique histories and cultural fabric as well, Murphy said. Maximizing the potential of our boardwalks requires robust, forward-looking investments that will prepare them to endure the test of time and the intensifying impacts of the climate crisis. I'm proud to build upon Lieutenant Governor Oliver's legacy as a champion of Atlantic City while we stand alongside elected officials on both sides of the aisle in support of these invaluable community assets.
NJ Gov. Phil Murphy signs a bill at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.
Murphy also announced the Boardwalk Preservation Fund application process, which is being managed by the Department of Community Affairs and will remain open until Oct. 31. The Fiscal Year 2024 Budget also includes an investment of tens of millions of American Rescue Plan dollars toward infrastructure investments that will continue to drive economic recovery and success.
"Our boardwalks and beaches generate millions of dollars of revenue and are the lifeblood of our coastal counties and municipalities," Polistina said. We are making a monumental investment that will provide a significant boost to the long-term economic success of the New Jersey shore. The establishment of the Boardwalk Preservation Fund will help shore towns preserve and maintain popular tourist spots by enabling them to construct and make necessary repairs to our boardwalks and beaches."
Polistina said millions of visitors from all over the world enjoy the state's historic boardwalks and the funding will help municipalities preserve and maintain these popular tourist destinations.
Our boardwalks are part of the backbone of New Jersey's thriving billions-dollar summer tourism season, Assemblyman Don Guardian said. Making these grants available to ensure our boardwalks remain the envy of coastal states, are broadened for increased bicycle use, and are easily accessible for residents with disabilities is a win for the Jersey Shore and all of New Jersey.
Some of my fondest memories growing up here are at the boardwalk. My husband and I now have the joy of watching our own children do so many of the same things I did as a kid, Assemblywoman Claire Swift said. This Boardwalk Preservation Fund will help our towns, so all our children and future generations can continue making the best memories here.
As the oldest and most notable boardwalk in the country, we are confident that we will deliver a competitive application and receive our fair share of much-needed funding, Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. said.
