By Frank Brill, EnviroPolitics Blog Editor
Sunbathing and refreshing dips in the Atlantic Ocean–plus a flock of recreational diversions–keep vacationers and investors flocking to the Jersey shore year after year. But as sure as a great vacation often awaits, so, too, do hurricanes and coastal storms that wreck havoc on homes and businesses and mandate expensive beach restorations.
For an idyllic week or two ‘at the shore,’ it’s a risk that vacationers take, year after year,
Now, the state wants to impose restrictions designed to curb seasonal damage by limiting where new construction can be located and how high it must be above predicted flood levels.
Business lobbyist Ray Cantor warns that the rules constitute a ‘retreat from the shore’ that will kill New Jersey’s golden tourism goose. Others say it’s just common sense, especially in the face of the undeniable threat posed by climate change.
The battle for public support pivots on our memories, weather, and photos. The developers’ warnings are more convincing when the sun shines.
When storms swallow up beach properties and destroy infrastructure their lament is less convincing.
The first in three public hearings scheduled on the rules–and the only one planned to be held in person– is set for 6 p.m. Sept. 5 at Ocean County College in Toms River. There are two are virtual hearings planned at 2 p.m. Sept. 12 and 10 a.m. Sept. 19.
Related shore regulation stories:
Proposed DEP rules spark debate at legislative hearing (NJ Spotlight)
Protecting against floods or government-mandated retreat (Associated Press)
New rules that would increase building elevations at the shore (Breaking AC)
Public hearing dates announced on proposed flood rules (AC Press)
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