NJ Beachgoers Calling On Tag Prices To Be Free: Report

New Jerseyans are calling for their wallets to also get a holiday this year, as a new poll from Stockton University is pointing out a concern over beach tag prices.

In a poll of more than 600 adults, the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy found that 65 percent of residents believe that beaches are a public resource and should be free to enjoy. Another 30 percent believe some sort of payment should be required to build revenue for services that are essential for safety, etc. in the area.

Half of the residents believe that the current tags to attend their nearest beach cost too much. Another 20 percent say they believe rates are reasonable, and only three percent call the costs too low.

Central New Jersey beachgoers can see season-long badges cost more than $100, while those in southern New Jersey routinely round out at around $30.

Residents around the Jersey Shore were more likely to say that at least something should be paid to access the grounds, as opposed to those in non-shore counties by a tally of 50 percent to the more inland's 27 percent.

“Residents in shore counties likely see beach tags as a way to manage crowds and reduce their local tax burden by bringing in other revenue to pay for upkeep, so it makes sense that they’re more amenable to charging than inland New Jerseyans,” added Alyssa Maurice, head of research with the Hughes Center. “It’s notable though that a majority in the shore region still think beaches should be free.”

Of the more than 600 adults polled, 53 percent say they are planning to visit the Jersey Shore this season.

Full Results

Stockton Poll: Most New Jerseyans Think Beach Tag Prices Too High

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