The proposed project is what has been referred to as the “moderate” version offered by our contractor, Coastal Planning and Engineering, and would deposit approximately 325,000 cubic yards of sand in Fair Harbor at cost of 1.8 million dollars. This is somewhat more sand than was deposited in 1993, but use of a near borrow site results in a lower cost per cubic yard, so the overall cost, allowing for inflation, is comparable to our previous project, which cost 1.5 million dollars.. The project will be paid for by bonds. With a ten year payback, such as was used for our 1993 project, there should be little, if any, change in your taxes for beach replenishment. At this point, Saltaire, Dunewood, and Lonelyville are with us, pending final approval.

 We strongly urge community members to vote “Approve” on the ballot form. While our beach condition has apparently improved since last year’s disaster, the long term processes at work are erosional. Short-term increases or decreases in beach width are normal and can yield a false, temporary sense of security. Yearly beach surveys since 1992 show that, over the longer term, we are losing sand at a significant rate. It has taken us two years to get to this point of the permitting and environmental studies. This may be our last chance ever to do beach replenishment. A poor beach will dramatically lower property values, rentals, and our ability to enjoy our beloved homes. The Fair Harbor Community Association Board strongly supports this project. I would be happy to answer any questions that you might have.

Please vote “Approve”

Questions? Please call or E-mail Erica Fried.

Thank you.

Fair Harbor Beach Erosion Control District,
Erica Fried, Deputy Commissioner (908) 654-5274

Frank Burns, Jerome Feder, Nevio Maggiora, Wells Newell,  Claire Walsh; Advisory Committee