The Army Corp of Engineers continues beach replenishment efforts along the coast in Ocean County.
News 12 New Jersey visited Brick Township Thursday, where many residents say that they are surprised by the size of the town’s Beach Three.
“We really look forward to enjoying the beach this year,” says resident Jim Powell. “Last year we didn't have any beach, there was maybe 30 feet of beach at most, now we have like 300 feet, which is really good."
Brick Mayor John Ducey also says that he is happy with the project. He says that the extra sand will provide added protection to the town, as well as more room for beachgoers to enjoy the summer.
But Powell and some other surfers say that they are a bit disappointed because the project eliminated a sand bar that used to provide good surfing conditions.
“It will probably take a good year or more to build it back up again,” Powell says.
Other Ocean County beaches will see similar replenishment, some during the summer months. Officials want to assure the public that at no time will any beach be entirely closed to the public.
The Army Corp schedule has Ortley Beach next on the list for replenishment. That project is expected to begin later this month.