On today’s agenda is a resolution authorizing submission of a grant application to the New Jersey Department of Transportation for continuation of the decorative street lighting and streetscape that is currently in place between 39th and 43rd on Landis Avenue. Consistent with our capital plan, we’re looking to extend the streetscape from 39th northward to 37th street; and from 43rd southward to 45th street. Up to 1.5 million dollars in grant funding is potentially available; and today’s authorization will enable us to meet the submission deadline of November 3rd.

Also in the realm of capital projects and grant funding, the administration is working with the county on a plan to advance a number of flood mitigation projects in several different areas in the city. As you may recall, the City previously developed a comprehensive, island-wide flood mitigation plan that identified areas where we can assist with flooding by the utilization of stormwater pumping stations. The city has already installed one station in the 38th street area; and currently has two other pump station projects in the planning and design stage to address the areas between 42nd and 47th Streets from Landis to the bay.

The remaining areas throughout the city that could benefit from pump stations consist of systems that are under both city and county responsibility. With significant funding potentially available through various infrastructure programs at the state and federal level, we are going to make the best possible case to obtain our fair share. 

Finally, I want to report on my inspection of the city’s beaches following last week’s series of severe tides and rains from the effects of Hurricane Ian. The good news is that the entire beach provided excellent storm protection from the ocean; and that the vast majority of beaches were not significantly damaged. We did suffer serious erosion in our downtown area around the JFK Beach, and in T.I. south of 86th Street. However, the beaches did their job in protecting public and private property. 

In addition, we’ve spoken with representatives of the state and federal government, and have been assured that a beach replenishment project is on its way in 2023. As we work with our state and federal partners on planning for that project, we’ll keep City Council and the public updated. 

As always, please remember that we are one Sea Isle City, and together we’ll be stronger than ever.