A $1.1 million economic development grant award to North Wildwood, N.J., was announced by Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo.
The grant is meant to fund the reconstruction of three blocks of boardwalk space, according to a Jan. 26 Commerce Department news release.
“President Biden knows how important the travel and tourism industry is for the American economy, especially in New Jersey. This EDA investment will support the growth of the tourism sector in Wildwood, creating jobs and bringing more visitors to the region,” Raimondo said in the release.
The money will be used to fix and construct ADA-compliant ramps, stairs and beach access, in a region with a significant tourist economy, the release reported. The grant will be matched with $1.9 million in local funds.
Gov. Phil Murphy thanked the Commerce Department and the state’s congressional delegation for a continued commitment to New Jersey’s economic vitality, the release reported.
“This investment in the future of North Wildwood will generate millions in private investment and hundreds of jobs in a community that has long epitomized the very best of our state’s iconic tourist destinations,” Murphy said in the release.
He said, in tandem with the statewide Boardwalk Fund, the proposed the federal support will accelerate growth in New Jersey’s shore economies, the release reported.
Sen. Cory Booker said he was proud to support boardwalk infrastructure funding projects, because they serve as economic engines for the shore region. The federal funding will help upgrade North Wildwood’s infrastructure and push continued growth, according to the release.
