U.S. Sens. Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) have announced new steps to protect New Jersey’s pristine ecosystem while rebuilding local infrastructure.
According to a press release, the senators were able to secure $25,000 in resources to monitor protected wetlands areas while improvements are being made to the Lakewood Airport in Lakewood.
The funding will help ensure that the construction site’s ecosystem and environment are protected by planting and monitoring trees as required by the wetlands permit issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
Menendez said, “Investments in New Jersey must build upon what makes our state great, not destroy it. And that means as we invest in rebuilding our state’s infrastructure, we must ensure our environment is protected from potential damage. These resources will help protect Lakewood’s surrounding ecosystem while we modernize its airport.”
Lautenberg, a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee that funds this program, said, “This federal funding allows upgrades to be completed at the Lakewood Airport while protecting neighboring wetlands. It is critical that New Jersey’s open space is preserved as we continue to improve infrastructure.”