Our coastal communities are about to see a transformative investment in shoreline protection. Cape May County beaches will receive $99 million in federal funding for comprehensive beach replenishment and protection projects, according to U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew, who announced the allocation this week.
This represents the largest federal investment in New Jersey beach projects during a year without hurricane damage—a milestone that underscores the importance of proactive coastal protection rather than reactive disaster response.
"I have been working closely with the Army Corps to make sure South Jersey is a priority," Van Drew said this week, "and today we are seeing that pay off in a massive way."
Where the Money Goes
The Philadelphia District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will supervise projects spanning five key shore communities: Ocean City, Strathmere (Upper Township), Sea Isle City, Avalon and Stone Harbor.
The 2026 fiscal year work plan breaks down as follows:
$25 million for "beachfill" at Great Egg Harbor and Peck Beach in North Ocean City. Beachfill involves depositing large amounts of sand onto eroded beaches to widen them and raise their elevation.
$28 million for dune and beachfill projects from Great Egg Harbor Inlet to Townsends Inlet, covering South Ocean City, Strathmere and Sea Isle City.
$46 million from the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act for dune and beachfill projects from Townsends to Cape May Inlet, including Avalon and Stone Harbor.
What This Means for Our Communities
For residents and business owners along the Cape May County shore, this investment represents more than just sand and dunes—it's about economic stability and peace of mind. Our beaches are the lifeblood of the local economy, drawing tourists and supporting countless businesses throughout the summer season and beyond.
"Our beaches are so important to South Jersey, and this level of investment means stronger protection, more stability, and peace of mind for our shore communities," Van Drew emphasized.
The South Jersey Republican noted that the allocation reflects ongoing advocacy efforts to prioritize the region's coastal needs at the federal level.
Timeline and Next Steps
District spokesman Steve Rochette indicated that Philadelphia District workers will collaborate with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to quickly update designs, surveying, environmental coordination and advertising contracts for beachfill work.
"The timing for construction start will depend on bids and dredging equipment availability," Rochette said, suggesting that while the funding is secured, the actual construction timeline will be determined by logistical factors.
This announcement comes on the heels of Van Drew's February tour of Ocean City with Assistant Secretary of the Army Adam Telle, where they assessed damage left by storms in 2025. That firsthand look at storm impacts likely reinforced the urgency of these protective measures.
As our shore communities prepare for another summer season, this historic investment offers reassurance that our coastline will be better protected against future storms and erosion—preserving not just sand and surf, but the economic vitality and character of the communities we call home.
