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New data released by Western Carolina University reveals that over 240 million cubic yards of sand have been pumped into beaches along the Jersey Shore since the beach replenishment programs began in 1936 at a cost of nearly $3 billion. Abescon Island in Atlantic City has seen a large share of the funding for these projects, receiving some $78 million during the timeframe.
This fall and winter, $52 million is being allocated to beach replenishment projects across five towns through the New Jersey Shore Protection Program. Beaches slated to benefit from the program this year include Cape May, Ocean City, Elsinboro Township, Strathmere, and Sea Isle City. Beach replenishment can be funded through a combination of federal, state, and local sources, depending on the municipality.
New Jersey has approximately 130 miles of beaches spanning the central and southern part of the state. The escalating costs and efforts highlight the ongoing battle against beach erosion, a problem exacerbated by climate change and rising sea levels.