Congressman Smith Surveys Nor'easter Damage In Manasquan, Ocean Gate

MANASQUAN, NJ — On Oct. 2, Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ 4) surveyed damage caused by the Sept. 26/27 nor'easter in Manasquan, Point Pleasant Beach, Bay Head, and Ocean Gate.

The storm led damage that was "extensive," said the Congressman.

The storm caused significant flooding and beach erosion in those towns. During the tour, Smith was joined by FEMA administrator Chris Hartnett, NJ DEP Deputy Commissioner Joe Seebode and a commander with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Manasquan Mayor Mike Mangan, Bay Head Mayor Bill Curtis and Ocean Gate Mayor Robert Curtin all met with Smith.

Many of those local officials commented that while their towns sustained damage from the Nor’easter, it was largely mitigated in some areas due to preexisting protections implemented after previous storms, such as flooding walls, erosion barries and dunes.

"Building upon what we’ve learned from previous storms and tapping into the continued knowledge and expertise shared today, I look forward to working ... to strengthen our shore communities’ resilience and preparation for future severe weather events,” said Smith.