rap #54 03/30/11

STORMWATER DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS SET FOR THE SPRING

AS PART of the county’s continuing stormwater management efforts, drainage systems in four locations will be repaired or replaced in the coming months.

"The Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders is committed to maintaining and improving our stormwater management network," said Freeholder John P. Kelly, Director of Law and Public Safety. "Effective stormwater management keeps dangerous flood waters off of our roads."

Freeholder James F. Lacey, liaison to the Ocean County Road Department, said efficient drainage is also critical in protecting the Barnegat Bay and nearby rivers, lakes and streams.

The Freeholders will seek bids for all four projects on one contract. The total cost is expected to be about $525,000.

The following locations are included in the contract:

• Ocean Gate Borough - replace the Narragansette Avenue outfall line.
• Brick Township - replace the Laurel Avenue outfall line.
• Stafford Township - replace the Hilliard Avenue culvert.
• Berkeley Township - replace the Bayview Avenue culvert.

Work on all four projects is expected to begin later this spring.

Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari said that while the county’s storm drains and drainage basins are designed to protect the environment, local residents and visitors must also do their part in keeping garbage out of our waterways.

"Please do not throw cigarette butts or other trash out of car windows and onto the road," he said. "Working together, we can reduce pollution and ensure our treasured bay is preserved for generations to come."

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