CAPE MAY COUNTY, NJ — Cape May County commissioners are urging Gov. Mikie Sherrill to formally request federal help to restore beaches and coastal infrastructure damaged by the September 2026 nor'easter.
In a resolution adopted at the latest meeting, the Cape May County Board of County Commissioners said the storm caused significant erosion and damage along the New Jersey coastline, including Atlantic Coast and Delaware Bay communities in Cape May County.
The resolution says healthy beaches and dune systems are the first line of defense against coastal storms, flooding and erosion. It states that damage from the recent storm left communities more vulnerable as the state approaches the winter storm season. The board also said New Jersey's beach replenishment and dune systems are a key part of the state's coastal resiliency efforts, protecting private property, public infrastructure and the coastal economy.
"Our beaches are not just a destination; they are our frontline protection," Commissioner Andrew Bulakowski said in a statement.
In that same statement, the county said that protecting shores means protecting all of Cape May County.
According to the resolution, recent storm damage demonstrated the importance of timely restoration of beaches and coastal infrastructure so coastal communities are adequately protected from future storms and coastal hazards.
The measure specifically supports a request by the American Coastal Coalition for Sherrill to seek assistance from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The resolution says federal assistance would provide an important resource in restoring critically eroded beaches and strengthening coastal protection measures ahead of winter.
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