Ocean County Leader

Rep. Chris Smith, a representative from Manchester, has secured $1,600,000 in federal funding for new boardwalk facilities in Seaside Heights. The funds are aimed at boosting local businesses and accommodating the town's growing economic development. The project will focus on redeveloping the Sandy-demolished Hiering Avenue Bath House with essential amenities for beachgoers.

Smith, who personally secured the funds for the project, expressed his satisfaction with the progress, stating, "Over the past decade, Seaside Heights has bounced back with tremendous strength and unbelievable resilience from the absolute devastation wrought by Superstorm Sandy and the subsequent South End Boardwalk Fire—but one glaring ruin, the Heiring Avenue Bath House, has yet to be rebuilt."

Mayor Anthony Vaz of Seaside Heights also welcomed the news, emphasizing the importance of the funds for the town's economic development. Vaz stated, "This is great news for Seaside Heights and even greater news for our visitors. These funds are critical to moving forward with our post-Sandy and post-Boardwalk fire economic development!"

Acknowledging the collaborative effort, Vaz added, “We appreciate Congressman Smith and his staff for working hard on our behalf.” Rep. Smith recognized Mayor Vaz's dedication to the project, saying, "From the moment Seaside Heights was added to my congressional district, Mayor Anthony ‘Tony’ Vaz was a strong and prepared advocate for this project, and I thank him for his insights and drive to help make this a reality."

Smith highlighted the expected impact of the revitalization project on the local economy, stating, “This revitalization project, which is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, will reinvigorate ocean front businesses and local merchants and provide greatly needed economic support to this classic American Boardwalk’s post-pandemic economic renaissance.”

The project enjoys widespread local support, including from the Seaside Heights Business Improvement District, the Seaside Heights Property Owners Association, and various local, county, and state officials.