Winter storms left parts of Sea Bright without any beach, but help is on the way
It’s been six years since the feds pumped sand on Sea Bright’s beaches.
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A parade of winter storms has left parts of Sea Bright without any beach at all.
There was no storm on Friday, yet the waves still crashed into Sea Bright’s infamous sea wall.
Thomas Montalbano’s northward walk with his two dogs on the sand is over.
“This is definitely a shock. I’ve walked down there before with these guys. Many times, as recently as two months ago,” said Montalbano.
It’s been six years since the feds pumped sand on Sea Bright’s beaches. Some areas held up better than others. But for the blocks north of the Ship Ahoy Beach Club, nothing’s left.
Sea Bright’s mayor says they’re aware of the problem spots in town, and it often happens in the winter when sand sometimes shifts from one beach and takes from others. The beach in front of the lifeguard headquarters and Municipal Hall stayed wide throughout the winter, with little erosion.
In 2025, the House Appropriations Committee cut federal funding for beach replenishment.
Rep. Frank Pallone says despite that, help is coming. “I have secured funding for Northern Monmouth County beaches. The United States Army Corps of Engineers is preparing a contract to start this fall and continue through the winter. I am making the case that Sea Bright and Monmouth Beach are in desperate need," he said.
Critics of repeated sand replenishment like Ross Kushner, the coordinator for the New Jersey Coastal Alliance say it’s time to stop throwing money away.
“What’s the definition of crazy? Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results? Artificial sand bars we think are the way to go. They break the force of the waves before they get to the beach,” said Kushner.
“It’s surprising to say the least. I’d like to know why it’s happening for sure,” said Montalbano.
