Severe Beach Erosion Sparks Local Emergency In Ocean City

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Recent storms have caused severe erosion along Ocean City beaches. Ahead of the winter storm season which will likely exacerbate this erosion, City Council is expected to declare a local emergency.

A resolution declaring a local emergency to address "severe and ongoing beach erosion" is on the agenda for Thursday's City Council meeting.

"Ocean City is currently experiencing critical and accelerating beach erosion, including significant dune loss, destruction of protective berms, and threats to both public and private property, placing the City in an emergency state of vulnerability ahead of the winter storm season," the resolution reads. It specifically cites the beach area between 1st and 13th Streets.

Recent storms including Hurricane Erin in August and the latest nor'easter caused a lot of damage in Ocean City. A New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection initial report said there was heavy erosion and dune scarping, or steep cliff-like cuts, of more than 5 feet in height. Read more: Nor'easter Caused 'Major' Erosion To Jersey Shore Beaches, Initial Report Says

Additionally, federal budget cuts mean that planned beach replenishment efforts have been delayed, "leaving critical areas unprotected and without a clear timeline for remediation," the resolution reads.

Through the resolution, Ocean City is calling for financial assistance and legislation to help restore the beaches from county, state and federal authorities.

"Ocean City lacks the financial resources to independently implement largescale beach replenishment, dune restoration, or long-term protective measures, and requires urgent and immediate assistance and funding from both the State and Federal governments to prevent further damage and danger to its residents and infrastructure," the resolution reads.

The next City Council meeting is set for 6 p.m. on Oct. 23 in City Hall, 861 Asbury Ave.