Avalon Beach Fill, Day Eight: One Full Block To Go For Beach Fill

(Avalon, NJ)—Avalon’s major beach fill project in the North end of the community has entered its final stages. As of Monday morning, June 30^th, sand was being pumped on 16^th and 17^th Street beaches. The beach fill project started one week ago on the 9^th Street beach, and will conclude this week on the 18^th Street beach in the resort. Avalon was able to negotiate an emergency agreement with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection that will result in a new, protective beach for the North end of the community before the July 4^th weekend.

“We’re very pleased with the progress on the beach”, said Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi. “Great Lakes is doing a great job with this beach fill effort, and we’re happy to report that Avalon will have nourished beaches in the North end of town not only heading into a holiday weekend, but also for the hurricane season, which has already started along the East Coast”.

Pagliughi notes that coastal storms in the fall and early spring devastated a few blocks of beaches in Avalon’s north end. Another storm, called the “Mother’s Day Storm 2008”, brought 70 mph wind gusts and even more beach erosion to the north end of the community.

Avalon council members Dick Dean and Joe Tipping both visited the dredge that is pumping the sand onto the beaches, on Friday. Dean and Tipping, along with other Borough officials, met with Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company, LLC Contract Manager David J. Johanson to get a close look at the dredge and an update on the beach fill.

Work is being done 24 hours a day to get the beach fill project completed as quickly as possible. To date, the pace of the project has been about one to one and a half blocks of beach filled every 24 hours. There have been no significant delays during the duration of this beach fill effort, which began Monday evening. Weekend weather is expected to cooperate and keep the project on schedule.

The dredge company recently finished a big beach fill project in Ocean City, and during the weekend, the dredge and various pieces of equipment arrived in Avalon. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company will pump approximately 225,000 cubic yards of sand on Avalon’s beaches from 9^th Street south to 18^th Street. The initial sand was placed on the 9^th Street beach, and work continues in a southerly direction through early this week.

The state of New Jersey has agreed to pay for 75% of the project cost, which is estimated at $2.4 million. This beach fill project is the first of two anticipated beach fills for the northern end of Avalon. Officials are also working on securing agreements with state and federal officials for a follow up beach fill that could occur in late 2008, or in the early spring of 2009. That beach fill would utilize $1.5 million in federal funding.

The beaches will be closed only in the immediate area where the beach work is taking place during the day. As the beach fill effort moves in a southerly direction, the beaches will be reopened as soon as work crews, and lifeguards, determine that the beaches are safe. The phone number for the Avalon Beach Patrol is (609) 967-7587.

Avalon officials visited with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection earlier this month and was able to convince NJDEP officials that the community needed a beach fill immediately in Avalon’s north end. The state has committed $1.8 million in funding for the project. The initial meeting with the NJDEP was on June 12^th; 13 days later, sand was being pumped onto the beaches of Avalon.

Avalon Beach Fill, Day Five: Beach Taking Shape Heading Into Weekend

(Avalon, NJ)—Work continued Friday on the major beach fill project in Avalon’s north end of town. Crews were pumping sand near the 13^th Street beach Friday morning. The beach fill project began on the 9^th Street Beach and is heading in a southerly direction. Work should conclude Monday or Tuesday at the 18^th Street beach. Then, the pipes will be removed from the new beach that was formed. All beaches not impacted by the immediate beach fill effort remain open and available today and for the duration of the beach fill effort.

“This is all about public safety”, Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi said. “And, this is about protecting the livelihood of Avalon and the Jersey Shore. Tourism generates $28 billion a year for the state of New Jersey, and 300,000 jobs. We all know that the beach is the lifeline of any shore community, and provides Avalon with a first line of defense in the event of a coastal storm.”

Pagliughi notes that coastal storms in the fall and early spring devastated a few blocks of beaches in Avalon’s north end. Another storm, called the “Mother’s Day Storm 2008”, brought 70 mph wind gusts and even more beach erosion to the north end of the community.

Avalon’s beach fill effort was featured Thursday evening on CBS 3 in Philadelphia as Doug Kammerer did a special report with Mayor Martin Pagliughi. On Sunday, the Philadelphia Inquirer is expected to run a full story with photographs of the project that were taken on Friday.

Work is being done 24 hours a day to get the beach fill project completed as quickly as possible. To date, the pace of the project has been about one to one and a half blocks of beach filled every 24 hours. There have been no significant delays during the duration of this beach fill effort, which began Monday evening. Weekend weather is expected to cooperate and keep the project on schedule.

The dredge company recently finished a big beach fill project in Ocean City, and during the weekend, the dredge and various pieces of equipment arrived in Avalon. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company will pump approximately 225,000 cubic yards of sand on Avalon’s beaches from 9^th Street south to 18^th Street. The initial sand was placed on the 9^th Street beach, and work continues in a southerly direction throughout the week.

The state of New Jersey has agreed to pay for 75% of the project cost, which is estimated at $2.4 million. This beach fill project is the first of two anticipated beach fills for the northern end of Avalon. Officials are also working on securing agreements with state and federal officials for a follow up beach fill that could occur in late 2008, or in the early spring of 2009. That beach fill would utilize $1.5 million in federal funding.

The beaches will be closed only in the immediate area where the beach work is taking place during the day. As the beach fill effort moves in a southerly direction, the beaches will be reopened as soon as work crews, and lifeguards, determine that the beaches are safe. The phone number for the Avalon Beach Patrol is (609) 967-7587.

Avalon officials visited with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection earlier this month and was able to convince NJDEP officials that the community needed a beach fill immediately in Avalon’s north end. The state has committed $1.8 million in funding for the project. The initial meeting with the NJDEP was on June 12^th; 13 days later, sand was being pumped onto the beaches of Avalon.

Avalon Beach Fill, Day Four: Work On 12^th Street, Project Done Next Week

(Avalon, NJ)—Avalon’s major beach fill project in the north end of the community continued overnight into Thursday morning. As of Thursday morning, sand was being pumped at the 12^th Street beach. Bulldozers were moving the dredged sand over the rocks at the beach. Crews have already graded some of the beaches from 9^th Street south to the project area.

Avalon Engineer Tom Thornton from Hatch Mott MacDonald, reported during the June 25^th council meeting that work on the beach was proceeding as planned. He was also informed that the entire beach fill project could finish by Monday or Tuesday of next week, well in advance of the July 4^th weekend, if the contractor doing the work does not run into any major problems. Work is being done 24 hours a day to get the beach fill project completed as quickly as possible. To date, the pace of the project has been about one to one and a half blocks of beach filled every 24 hours.

The dredge company recently finished a big beach fill project in Ocean City, and during the weekend, the dredge and various pieces of equipment arrived in Avalon. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company will pump approximately 225,000 cubic yards of sand on Avalon’s beaches from 9^th Street south to 18^th Street. The initial sand was placed on the 9^th Street beach, and work continues in a southerly direction throughout the week.

The state of New Jersey has agreed to pay for 75% of the project cost, which is estimated at $2.4 million. This beach fill project is the first of two anticipated beach fills for the northern end of Avalon. Officials are also working on securing agreements with state and federal officials for a follow up beach fill that could occur in late 2008, or in the early spring of 2009. That beach fill would utilize $1.5 million in federal funding.

The beaches will be closed only in the immediate area where the beach work is taking place during the day. As the beach fill effort moves in a southerly direction, the beaches will be reopened as soon as work crews, and lifeguards, determine that the beaches are safe. The phone number for the Avalon Beach Patrol is (609) 967-7587.

Avalon officials visited with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection earlier this month and was able to convince NJDEP officials that the community needed a beach fill immediately in Avalon’s north end. The state has committed $1.8 million in funding for the project.

CBS3 In Philadelphia To Do Weather Forecasts From Avalon On Thursday, June 26^th

(AVALON, NJ)—Avalon, New Jersey will be getting exposure in the Philadelphia, PA television market today. CBS3 will be doing live weather forecasts from the Borough during news segments from 4-5pm, and again from 6-6:30pm.

Avalon Public Information Officer Scott Wahl said that veteran Philadelphia television weather forecaster Doug Kammerer will deliver weather forecasts live from the Windrift in Avalon late this afternoon. Kammerer will be filling in for Kathy Orr, who’s on vacation this week. Orr’s popular “Orr At The Shore” shore segments put a spotlight each week on a different shore community. This week, it’s Avalon’s turn to be featured. This year’s segments on CBS3 at the shore feature environmental and “green” issues.

CBS3 is also coming to Avalon to interview Mayor Martin Pagliughi about Avalon’s beach fill effort in the northern part of the Borough. Pagliughi is expected to talk about the timing of the beach fill, and the added protection that it will provide Avalon’s north end in the event of a storm during hurricane season. This beach fill may be followed by a second beach fill in the same project area during late Fall 2008, or early Spring 2009.

JUNE 2008—A MESSAGE FROM AVALON MAYOR MARTIN PAGLIUGHI

Dear Avalon residents and visitors,

I would like to take a moment to personally thank you for your patience during a beach fill project in late June in the north end of our community. Avalon officials worked very hard to secure an agreement with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to get the beach that you deserve. Great Lakes Dredging and Dock Company is pumping 225,000 cubic yards of sand on our beaches from 9^th to 18^th Streets. The project should be completed before the July 4^th weekend, if all goes well.

We understand that the timing of the beach fill project is inconvenient for some people, and we appreciate and understand your concerns. Avalon was fortunate to not only reach a formal agreement with the NJDEP for the beach fill which requires the state to finance 75% of the project; but we were also fortunate that the dredge had completed a beach fill in nearby Ocean City, making the dredge available to Avalon to give us protection during the hurricane season along the eastern seaboard. We ask you to simply talk to the members of the Avalon Beach Patrol to find the closest beach that is open, and protected, during your trip to the beach.

A beach fill is more than just providing a recreational area for you and your family to enjoy. A beach fill also provides a level of protection for the public welfare and safety of our residents and visitors. Public safety always comes first in Avalon, and your local elected officials in Avalon have accomplished our goal of providing a protective beach for our friends in the north end of the Borough.

We anticipate that a second, larger beach fill project will also be conducted in our north end in late Fall, 2008 or in early Spring, 2009. These two beach fills will provide the level of protection we need in the event of a storm, and provide a large, recreational beach for you to enjoy for summers to come.

Avalon officials negotiated an interim agreement with the NJDEP that did not compromise our legal disagreement with the state over a State Aid Agreement. That issue will still be decided in the courts; a hearing is scheduled in September in the appellate division.

Your safety in Avalon remains our number one priority. We extend our apologies during this beach fill project and be assured you’ll find a beach to enjoy just steps away from where the work is being conducted. Please go to our website, www.avalonboro.org, to get updates on where the work is being done. On behalf of Avalon’s Borough Council, I hope you enjoy your day at the beach in Avalon, and take time to enjoy everything else our beautiful community has to offer.

Best Wishes,
Martin Pagliughi
Mayor of Avalon, NJ

Avalon Beach Fill, Day Three: Beach Fill Reaches 10^th And 11^th Streets

(Avalon, NJ)—Avalon’s beach fill project progressed Wednesday morning, with sand being placed on the beaches between 10^th and 11^th streets Wednesday morning. The sand dredge has been working around the clock since Tuesday afternoon, and will continue pumping sand until the project is completed. David J. Johanson, Contract Manager for Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company, LLC, reports that the nourishment operation will occur 24 hours a day in order to get the beach fill done as quickly as possible. The project could last approximately seven to 10 days

The dredge company recently finished a big beach fill project in Ocean City, and during the weekend, the dredge and various pieces of equipment arrived in Avalon. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company will pump approximately 225,000 cubic yards of sand on Avalon’s beaches from 9^th Street south to 18^th Street. The initial sand was placed on the 9^th Street beach, and work continues in a southerly direction throughout the week.

The state of New Jersey has agreed to pay for 75% of the project cost, which is estimated at $2.4 million. This beach fill project is the first of two anticipated beach fills for the northern end of Avalon. Officials are also working on securing agreements with state and federal officials for a follow up beach fill that could occur in late 2008, or in the early spring of 2009. That beach fill would utilize $1.5 million in federal funding.

The beaches will be closed only in the immediate area where the beach work is taking place during the day. As the beach fill effort moves in a southerly direction, the beaches will be reopened as soon as work crews, and lifeguards, determine that the beaches are safe. The phone number for the Avalon Beach Patrol is (609) 967-7587.

Avalon still has a pending legal challenge against the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection regarding a State Aid Agreement that would call for 24 hour, 7 day a week unfettered access to all beaches, waterways, and marinas in the project area. The NJDEP requirements for public access, parking, and restroom facilities, along with other requirements, are being met by the Borough for the North End project. A hearing in a state appellate court over this dispute is scheduled for September. Avalon did not sign this State Aid Agreement; both the NJDEP and Avalon officials agreed to an interim agreement to allow this beach fill project to take place.

Avalon Beach Fill, Day Two: Sand Being Pumped At 9^th Street Tuesday

(Avalon, NJ)—A major beach fill project on the north end beaches in Avalon began Tuesday afternoon. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company began pumping sand on the 9^th Street Beach Monday night, and more sand was scheduled to be pumped on Avalon’s beaches throughout Tuesday afternoon, and Tuesday evening. David J. Johanson, Contract Manager for Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company, LLC, reports that the nourishment operation will occur 24 hours a day in order to get the beach fill done as quickly as possible. The project could last approximately seven to 10 days

The dredge company recently finished a big beach fill project in Ocean City, and during the weekend, the dredge and various pieces of equipment arrived in Avalon. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company will pump approximately 225,000 cubic yards of sand on Avalon’s beaches from 9^th Street south to 18^th Street. The initial sand will be placed on the 9^th Street beach, with work being done in a southerly direction.

The state of New Jersey has agreed to pay for 75% of the project cost, which is estimated at $2.4 million. This beach fill project is the first of two anticipated beach fills for the northern end of Avalon. Officials are also working on securing agreements with state and federal officials for a follow up beach fill that could occur in late 2008, or in the early spring of 2009. That beach fill would utilize $1.5 million in federal funding.

“It’s a very welcome sight to see the dredge equipment in place, and pumping sand onto the beaches of Avalon”, said Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi. “This beach nourishment project will provide protection to residents and property in the north end of the Borough, and provide a recreational beach for residents and visitors”.

Avalon still has a pending legal challenge against the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection regarding a State Aid Agreement that would call for 24 hour, 7 day a week unfettered access to all beaches, waterways, and marinas in the project area. The NJDEP requirements for public access, parking, and restroom facilities, along with other requirements, are being met by the Borough for the North End project. A hearing in a state appellate court over this dispute is scheduled for September. Avalon did not sign this State Aid Agreement; both the NJDEP and Avalon officials agreed to an interim agreement to allow this beach fill project to take place.

Avalon Imposes Water Restrictions For Summer Of 2008

(Avalon, NJ)—The Borough of Avalon has imposed residential water use restrictions for the Summer of 2008. The Avalon borough council approved a resolution supporting the restrictions during its meeting on Wednesday, June 11^th.

“It’s important for Avalon residents and visitors to do all they can to limit the amount of water that they use this summer”, said Avalon Business Administrator Andrew Bednarek. “There are limits to how much water a town can use during the summer months, and Avalon has to be careful not to go over that limit for the second consecutive year”.

Under terms of the resolution, outdoor water use in Avalon will be restricted with an odd-even numbering system. If a residential or commercial property has a street address ending in an odd number, outdoor water use will be allowed only on odd-numbered days. If a residential or commercial property ends with an even number, outdoor water use will be restricted to even number days. All outdoor water use will be restricted on the 31^st day of any month. Outdoor water use includes watering lawns and gardens, washing vehicles, and the like.

Avalon’s water usage numbers went over a limit set by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection in 2007. Avalon currently has a permit to withdraw up to 76.8 million gallons per month and up to 354 million gallons per year from the 800-foot sand aquifer via the borough’s five wells. On October 20^th, 2007, Avalon’s water usage for the year exceeded the annual limit of 354 million gallons. The total water usage for 2007 was 378.1 million gallons, which exceeded the annual limit by 6.8%.

“This resolution affords a rock-solid plan for Avalon to curtail its water use this summer”, said Avalon Borough Engineer Tom Thornton. “By limiting outdoor water use on this odd-even numbering system, Avalon should reduce the amount of water it will use this summer, and hopefully will stay within the limits outlined by the permits”.

The New Jersey American Water Company has provided Avalon and borough residents with common-sense water conservation ideas. They will be distributed via the borough’s website, www.avalonboro.org, and with a direct mail piece to properties in Avalon.

The Borough of Avalon will also participate in water conservation efforts, and will reduce its own outdoor water use as well to help with the effort.

The outdoor water restrictions in Avalon are effective immediately, and will be enforced until further notice.

Here are some water conservation tips, provided by the New Jersey American Water Company. These tips are applicable to all communities:

*Water the lawn only when it needs it. An easy way to tell if the lawn needs water is to simply walk across the grass. If there are footprints, then it’s time to water. Water early in the morning or event to avoid water lost to evaporation. As much as 30 percent of water can be lost to evaporation by watering during the midday.

*Use a broom or a hose to clean the sidewalk, driveway, or patio.

*Cover pools and spas to reduce evaporation.

*Wash cars in small sections, and use a shut-off nozzle or take the car to a car wash that recycles water.

*Turn off water inside your home while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes in the sink

*Run dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are full. Adjust the water level on the clothes washer to that it matches the load size

*Regularly check toilets, faucets and pipes for leaks. If there is a leak, have it fixed as soon as possible.

*Keep a bottle of cold tap water in the refrigerator. It will help avoid the cost and environmental impact of drinking bottled water, and will make cold water available in the summer without running the faucet.

Avalon Beach Fill, Day One: Equipment In Place, Sand To Be Pumped Very Soon

(Avalon, NJ)—Avalon’s north end beach fill project is expected to get underway very soon, possibly Monday evening or during the day on Tuesday. Equipment belonging to Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company has been delivered to Avalon’s beach, and the dredge is in place, just offshore of 7^th Street in Avalon.

The dredge company recently finished a big beach fill project in Ocean City, and during the weekend, the dredge and various pieces of equipment arrived in Avalon. Borough Engineer Thomas Thornton says the company could start pumping sand as early as Monday evening, but more likely on Tuesday. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company will pump approximately 225,000 cubic yards of sand on Avalon’s beaches from 9^th Street south to 18^th Street. The initial sand will be placed on the 9^th Street beach, with work being done in a southerly direction.

The state of New Jersey has agreed to pay for 75% of the project cost, which is estimated at $2.4 million. This beach fill project is the first of two anticipated beach fills for the northern end of Avalon. Officials are also working on securing agreements with state and federal officials for a follow up beach fill that could occur in late 2008, or in the early spring of 2009. That beach fill would utilize $1.5 million in federal funding.

Avalon still has a pending legal challenge against the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection regarding a State Aid Agreement that would call for 24 hour, 7 day a week unfettered access to all beaches, waterways, and marinas in the project area. The NJDEP requirements for public access, parking, and restroom facilities, along with other requirements, are being met by the Borough for the North End project. A hearing in a state appellate court over this dispute is scheduled for September. Avalon did not sign this State Aid Agreement; both the NJDEP and Avalon officials agreed to an interim agreement to allow this beach fill project to take place.

MORE INFORMATION: ANDREW BEDNAREK, BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR, (609) 967-4148

JOSEPH TIPPING, COUNCIL PRESIDENT, (609) 967-5097

TOM THORNTON, ENGINEER, (609) 465-9377

Beach Fill Coming: Avalon Negotiates North End Beach Fill With Njdep

(Avalon, NJ)—Avalon’s Borough Council held an emergency meeting on Thursday evening, June 19^th, and approved a resolution that provides local matching funding for a beach fill project that will begin soon in the North end of the community. The beach fill project will take place between 9^th and 18^th Streets in Avalon.

“This is a great day for Avalon”, said Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi. “Even though Avalon has a legal challenge pending against the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection in connection with the State’s shore protection funding requirements, we were able to convince the DEP that we need help in the North end of town”.

Under terms of the resolution, approximately 225,000 cubic yards of sand will be placed on the beach between 9^th and 18^th Streets during early summer. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company will be conducting the work; that is the same company that is wrapping up a beach fill project in Ocean City. The dredge is being brought to Avalon, and once it arrives, the beach nourishment project will begin immediately. Avalon has negotiated an agreement with the NJDEP under which the State will pay for 75% of the $2.4 Million project cost, with Avalon paying the balance.

“We’ve never been afraid to put local dollars into beach projects, especially when an emergency condition exists”, said Avalon Council President Joseph Tipping. “In order for Avalon to get the beach project, we had to make a financial commitment. Fortunately, Avalon has managed its finances well over the years to have the local money available without an impact on the tax rate”.

“This emergency beach fill is not about suntans”, said Pagliughi. “People and property protection always comes first, and this beach fill will give the North end added protection in the event of a nor’easter or a hurricane. Having the public enjoy a new beach in that part of Avalon is valuable, but is clearly secondary to the protection that people in that part of town wholeheartedly deserve”.

This beach fill project is the first of two anticipated beach fills for the northern end of Avalon. Officials are also working on securing agreements with state and federal officials for a follow up beach fill that could occur in late 2008, or in the early spring of 2009. That beach fill would utilize $1.5 million in federal funding.

Avalon still has a pending legal challenge against the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection regarding a State Aid Agreement that would call for 24 hour, 7 day a week unfettered access to all beaches, waterways, and marinas in the project area. The NJDEP requirements for public access, parking, and restroom facilities, along with other requirements, are being met by the Borough for the North End project. “I believe the NJDEP knows there are serious flaws with their proposed public access rules”, Pagliughi said. “We’ll let the courts settle that issue. For now, the important issue here is that both sides were able to strike an interim agreement that gets sand on the beach, and with the state paying for most of the work”.

Avalon officials visited with the NJDEP on Thursday, June 12^th in Trenton to negotiate this beach fill project and also offered solutions to some areas of disagreement with the State Aid Agreement that the Borough has so far refused to sign. Avalon was represented by Mayor Martin Pagliughi, and Council President Joseph Tipping, among others. NJDEP Commissioner Lisa Jackson also attended the meeting, along with other members of her staff.

Avalon Police Host Seminar To Help Merchants Identify Counterfeit Money

(Avalon, NJ)—Avalon police have scheduled a free seminar to help local merchants identify counterfeit money that may be passed at the Jersey Shore, especially during the summertime. Avalon Police Chief David Dean announced today that the free seminar will be held on Thursday, June 26^th, at 9am at the Avalon Community Hall, at 30^th and the Beach in Avalon. The event will be free, and open to the public.

“The Avalon Police Department wants to help merchants identify United States currency that is counterfeit and should not be accepted for purchase”, said Dean. “There are stories every year about merchants all along the coastline who accept bogus currency, and we want to do all we can to give the merchants the tools they need to identify and intercept the illegal transactions”.

Special Agent George Rogers of the United States Secret Service is scheduled to be the federal expert who will be attending the training event. He will specifically talk to merchants about how to spot counterfeit currency, and what steps merchants can take to prevent accepting this currency during a transaction. Rogers has given a similar presentation earlier this year to merchants in Ocean City.

“People who pass illegal currency sometimes target the Jersey Shore due to the seasonal nature of the economy”, Dean said. “We want to give the merchants and their staff all the training they need to show that Avalon is not a good place to attempt these transactions”.

No reservations are needed for this seminar; business owners and employees are both encouraged to attend.

New Hvac System Being Installed At Avalon Borough Hall; Closure Continues

(Avalon, NJ)—Work crews continue to install a new HVAC system on the roof of Avalon’s Borough Hall and Senior Center. Borough officials announced today that the work will continue into late July, and the closure of the hall and the center will continue. Borough Hall was slated to re-open on June 20^th.

“It’s all about safety”, said Avalon Business Administrator Andrew Bednarek. “We want to make sure that the building is completely safe and accessible before the public, and Avalon employees, are allowed back inside. Plus, we want to make sure that the contractor has sufficient time to complete the job, and the men working on the job site are able to complete the work safely”.

Arthur Ogren Construction is the main contractor for the project, which started in early May. New air conditioning and heating units are being installed on the top of the building. Crews are also working inside the building, which has resulted in functions of borough government being relocated to two different locations in Avalon.

“The right decision is to keep the public and Avalon employees out of the building until the work is completed which is expected later this summer”, Bednarek said. “Functions of Avalon’s government will return to Borough Hall when the work is finished, and we’re assured by the main contractor that the building is once again safe for day to day operations. As work progresses, we’ll keep the public informed, and announce a date of when normal operations will resume at Borough Hall”.

Here is a list of where municipal business are being transacted during this closure:

*Public Works Building and Office Trailers, 13^th and Dune Drive—Borough Clerk, Construction, Finance, Planning, Rental Licenses, Tax Collector, Zoning

*Office trailer behind Borough Hall: Mayor, Administration, Municipal Court. For questions regarding court, call 967-4457

*All scheduled Council meetings and Planning Board meetings will continue be held at the Avalon Community Center, at 30^th and the Beach.

*Senior programs will continue; contact Sue Keen at 967-5924

Construction is currently underway on a new Public Safety Complex located next to Borough Hall, on Dune Drive between 30^th and 31^st Streets. Work on the building began last year, and the first phase of the construction project will be finished by the end of this year; the project will be completely wrapped up early in the spring of 2009. The new Public Safety Complex will house the Police Department, Fire Department, Emergency Management, Rescue Squad, Beach Tag, and Communications functions for the borough.

“We apologize for the inconvenience caused by the closure of Borough Hall during the construction work”, Bednarek said. “But safety always comes first in Avalon”.

Work On Avalon Boulevard Bridge Extended, Could Wrap Up On June 19^th

(Avalon, NJ)—Construction work on the Avalon Boulevard Bridge in Middle Township will continue until Thursday, according to Cape May County Engineer Dale Foster. Foster has informed Avalon officials that the project is not behind schedule, but some additional deterioration has been found on the bridge, and more work has to be done. Plus, crews lost a day of work due to weather concerns early in the project.

Foster says the bridge decking work will be conducted Monday, June 16^th through Thursday, June 19^th. Crews will be closing one lane of traffic on the Avalon Boulevard Bridge from 10am until 8pm during each day of the reconstruction effort. Flagmen will be doing alternating lane closures while the work is being completed.

The work consists of removing deteriorated concrete, which is called a spall, and placing high early strength concrete patch material on the bridge. A “spall” is the area of concrete that pops loose from reinforcing steel bars that eventually rust. The rusting of the steel bars is caused by chloride ions from de-icing salts that attack the reinforcing steel bars in the concrete deck. When steel rusts, it expands up to seven times its original size, causing concrete to crack and pop loose. Approximately 665 square feet of concrete deck is being repaired during the construction project.

South State, Inc. of Bridgeton, NJ was awarded the $123,950 construction contract by the Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders on April 22, 2008.

The project was expected to take two weeks, and began on June 2^nd, 2008. No work has been done on weekends to permit shore traffic to get to and from Avalon.

Nationwide commercial shoot for new product features Avalon; Four Canadian travel writers visit Avalon

(Avalon, NJ) - All of the benefits of an Avalon vacation or summer experience will be highlighted on a brand new cable television program that will be aired this summer on the Comcast cable system. A new program called “Jersey Shore Magazine” came to Avalon on Friday, June 13^th and talked with Avalon Public Information Director Scott Wahl about all of the exciting events happening in Avalon this summer. Avalon’s portion of the television program was videoed at 30^th and the Boardwalk in the community.

“I welcomed the opportunity to talk with host Jeff Walden about everything that Avalon has to offer”, Wahl said after the video shoot. “The program most interested in what vacationers enjoy, including the beaches, environment, shopping, and dining”.

The television crew took ample video of Avalon’s downtown and beach areas. The television program is expected to also highlight the free movies on the beaches, and free concerts on the beach, and at the Veterans’ Plaza. A full listing of the events is available on Avalon’s website, avalonboro.org.

“Jersey Shore Magazine” will air three times a day locally on Comcast channel 2, starting on June 18^th. The show will air from Midnight-1am, from 2pm-3pm, and again from 7-8pm.

Additionally, a film crew came to Avalon in June for production of a television commercial for a product called “Purple”, which is a new energy drink. The entire footage for the commercial was shot in Avalon, and there will be a nationwide launch of the product with Avalon as a backdrop. And, four Canadian travel writers were hosted by Avalon from June 8^th-13^th. They are expected to write several travel articles about the Jersey Shore, which for the first time will include extensive coverage of Avalon. The articles are expected to have at least 500,000 impressions in the Canadian travel market.

Avalon Prepares For Big Fireworks, Family Fun Festival July 4-5 (Avalon, NJ)—Avalon is preparing for one of the biggest weekends of the entire year on July 4-5th with the annual Family Fun Festival. This year, the fireworks event accompanying the festival will include a partnership with WCZT Radio, 98.7..The Coast. Avalon will culminate a big weekend of family activities on Saturday, July 5th, with a huge fireworks display. The fireworks originate from a barge offshore, and it promises to be one of the biggest fireworks displays along the entire New Jersey coast during the holiday weekend. Music that accompanies the fireworks display will be played on site at 30th and the Beach, and also will be simulcast on WCZT Radio at the same time. “We’re excited about having the music for Avalon’s fireworks display simulcast on the shore’s most popular radio station”, said Avalon Recreation Director Dave Haberle. “That way, anyone in, or close to Avalon that night with a view of the beach can enjoy the big display, and hear the music that makes the event even more memorable”. The fireworks display will take place offshore at 30th and the Beach, near the boardwalk and the Avalon Community Center. The display will be visible for miles along the 7 Mile Beach. The Avalon Lions Club will be serving some hot dogs, hamburgers, and soda at the end of 30th Street during the day for the lunch crowd, and other vendors are expected on the boardwalk to compliment the event. In the event of rain, the fireworks display will take place, also at dusk, the following evening, Sunday July 5th. The Avalon Family Fun Festival will begin on Friday, July 4th with several major events. The Warren Buckingham Swim races will take place at 10am at the Windrift Hotel. Avalon will host the “Snake Brothers” music show during a free beach concert from Noon-3pm at 30th Street and the Beach. Field races will be held on 10th Street at 2pm. Avalon’s big boat parade will also take place during high tide on July 4th. The day concludes with a concert by “McQ” at Veterans Plaza in Avalon, at 7pm. On Saturday, July 5th, Avalon presents more live music with “Trinidad North”, who will be performing a free beach concert at 30th Street and the Beach from Noon-3pm. The Avalon Family Fun Festival begins at 6:00pm with the Tropica Steel Band, face painters, magician, jugglers, and balloons, and will culminate with the fireworks display at dusk. Other Family Fun Fest events are the Air National Guard Band, June 30th at the Veterans Plaza. The Avalon Family Mummers Parade, takes place on July 2nd at 6pm, with decorated bikes and wagons, and people walking along. The parade forms at Community Hall, and goes down Avalon Avenue to 21st Street, then on to the plaza for a mini concert, followed by Cape Shore of the Sweet Adelines at 7pm.

Avalon Mayor Participates In Turtle Release Program With Local Children (Avalon, NJ) - Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi joined kindergarten students from Avalon and Stone Harbor for a major turtle release program at the Wetlands Institute on Wednesday, June 11th. Kindergarten students were taught how turtles are bred in a controlled environment, and were able to release their own turtles into their natural habitat for the first time in their lives. The turtles were approximately one year old, and each student who attended the event was able to pick up a turtle and release it into the waters near the Wetlands Institute on Stone Harbor Boulevard in Middle Township. The students unfurled a hand-made banner during the event to thank the Wetlands Institute for the ability to participate in the turtle release program. Each student received a tshirt, a certificate that allows them to name the turtle that they released into the natural environment, and a turtle medallion. The students were also shown how the young turtles were microchipped so marine experts can track the turtles into adult life. Pagliughi attends the event on an annual basis, showing children how to properly handle the turtles, and release them into the marshes at the Wetlands Institute. Please see photos from this event.

Senior/Community Activities Schedule For Summer Of 2008 In Avalon

(Avalon, NJ)—Here is a list of senior/community activities in Avalon in the coming weeks that have been impacted by the closure of the Avalon Borough Hall and Senior Center, which is undergoing some major HVAC work on the roof of the building.

COOKING CLASS WITH NATALIE BAILEY—Monday, July 14^th, at 1pm. Please call 967-5924 to register to attend. This “Christmas in July” cooking class will be held at the Avalon Elementary School cafeteria.

ART—Starting Tuesday, June 10^th, activities will be held at the 39^th Street Tennis Court Building. Activities will be held there every week until the Avalon Senior Center at Borough Hall is opened, with the exception of July 22^nd. Art activities will be held in the Avalon Elementary School art room for that day only.

KNITTING—Cancelled until further notice. Please call 368-2579 for more information.

PIANO—Will resume in the fall. Call 465-3993 for more information.

BINGO—Will resume in the fall.

MAH JONGG—Classes, and for those who just want to get together to play, can meet Wednesdays at 1:30pm at the 39^th Street Tennis Court Building, except for July 23^rd, where Mah Jongg will be held at the Avalon Elementary School art room.

BRIDGE, THURSDAYS AND FRIDAYS—The intermediate players meet on Thursdays at 9:30am, beginners meet Fridays at 9am. Both of these classes will be held at the 39^th Street Tennis Court Building, until the Senior Center is available. On Thursday, July 24^th, the bridge group will meet at the Avalon Elementary School for that one day only in the art room. The Friday session will continue meeting at the 39^th Street Tennis Court Building.

BRIDGE TUESDAY AT 7PM—The Tuesday night bridge will meet at the 39^th Street Tennis Court Building, except on July 22^nd. On that date, it will take place at the Avalon Elementary School art room.