Report: FEMA Won't Fund Some Post-Sandy Boardwalk Repairs

Federal officials will not provide funding to help repair a central New Jersey boardwalk that was damaged by Superstorm Sandy.

The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association tells the Asbury Park Press it recently learned about the Federal Emergency Management Association's decision.

“You remain hopeful throughout the process, but it was very disappointing to us, given the circumstances we’re facing,” said David Lotz, a spokesman for the association. “It’s vital that we get the funding.”

A FEMA spokesman told the newspaper he was unaware of the decision and couldn't confirm it.

But state Sen. Jennifer Beck, whose district includes Ocean Grove, said FEMA determined the association is a private nonprofit organization. So its boardwalk doesn't qualify for public money because it's a recreational use.

Ocean Grove is the historical section of Neptune Township. The middle section of its roughly mile-long boardwalk suffered damage when Sandy hit in October.

Association officials will continue to seek funding for the work and may appeal FEMA's decision.

 

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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