BERKELEY, NJ — Berkeley Township is working on proposed infrastructure improvements for Bayview Avenue and other low-lying areas after flooding over the weekend, according to a statement from Councilman James Byrnes.
Byrnes said on social media that he is working with the Berkeley Township Waterways Advisory Commission and township engineers, Remington & Vernick Engineers, on the plans. He said Bayview Avenue is an important evacuation and emergency access route for waterfront neighborhoods in Berkeley Township.
"When portions of this roadway flood, access in and out of these communities can become extremely difficult," Byrnes said. He said the proposed plans include raising low-lying sections of Bayview Avenue and making drainage improvements aimed at reducing flooding-related road closures and maintaining access for residents and emergency services.
According to the post, preliminary estimates put the cost at about $47.9 million for North Bayview and $21.7 million for South Bayview. Because of the scale and cost, Berkeley Township is seeking federal funding assistance for the work.
Byrnes said the project could be completed in phases if full funding is not available at one time. According to the statement, work could begin with some of the lowest-lying and most flood-prone areas first.
"There is still a lot of work ahead, but what I saw firsthand this weekend is another reminder of why addressing these areas is so important," Byrnes said.
Byrnes said he will continue working with those involved and pursuing available funding opportunities.
He also said residents would continue to receive updates as the effort moves ahead.
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