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Wildwood Crest has decided to withdraw from a significant beach replenishment project intended to nourish Five Mile Island. The decision was announced during a borough commissioners meeting on Wednesday (February 19), with Mayor Don Cabrera expressing concerns about the project's impact on local beaches. The $40 million project, overseen by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was initially planned to begin in spring 2026.
The primary concern for Wildwood Crest officials is that the project would require sand to be borrowed from areas currently used by beachgoers, which could reduce available space for sunbathers and amenities such as portable restrooms. Deputy Mayor Joe Franco noted that residents have largely opposed the project, citing potential negative impacts on the community.
Despite withdrawing from the project, Wildwood Crest continues to support dredging Hereford Inlet to provide sand to North Wildwood. Mayor Cabrera emphasized the need for formal guarantees from the DEP and the Army Corps before moving forward with any beach replenishment efforts. The project also includes plans for a 75-foot-wide dune, which has raised concerns about its potential ecological impact.
The decision to withdraw comes amid broader discussions about beach replenishment on Five Mile Island. While some areas, like Diamond Beach in Lower Township, remain supportive of the project, Wildwood Crest's withdrawal highlights the complexities and challenges of balancing environmental protection with community needs.