Cape May County seeks federal aid for beach and dune repairs

The Cape May County Board of Commissioners has passed a resolution urging Governor Phil Murphy to request federal assistance from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The request aims to repair beach and dune damage caused by a nor'easter in September.

Local officials emphasize that healthy beaches and dunes serve as a primary defense for homes, businesses, roads, and the local tourism economy. A federal disaster declaration could grant Cape May County and other impacted New Jersey coastal areas access to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding for recovery and emergency restoration projects.

The Governor's Office stated that the state is currently collaborating with federal agencies and following the necessary procedures to apply for funding. Residents and officials have been encouraged to document property and beach damage to support the state's application for relief.