Menendez, Booker Applaud Reauthorization of the NJ Coastal Heritage Trail

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker today applauded the reauthorization of the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail, a 300-mile route that connects the Jersey Shore’s popular and historic tourist destinations. Sen. Menendez introduced the Senate version of this legislation, of which Sen. Booker was an original cosponsor, and secured the bill’s consideration by the Energy and Natural Resources Committee and its unanimous passage through the Senate.

“The New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail showcases the beautiful natural and historic landmarks that the Garden State has to offer along the shore,” said Sen. Menendez. “This legislation recognizes the importance of the area’s landmarks, wildlife, and rich heritage, and will help to attract tourists from across nation and around the world.”

“The Coastal Heritage Trail not only promotes New Jersey’s unique historic, natural, and cultural history, but it also helps support tourism and expand local economic opportunity,” said Sen. Booker. “I was proud to work with Senator Menendez, along with Congressman LoBiondo in his last year in office, to fight for this federal funding so that future generations may enjoy all that New Jersey’s coastal communities have to offer.”

Sen. Menendez pushed the Republican-controlled Senate to hold a vote on the Coastal Heritage Trail as a standalone bill in the final days of the last Congress. The bill passed Congress at the end of December and was signed into law on January 10.

The Coastal Heritage Trail is now eligible to compete for federal funding in order to protect, preserve, and maintain historic and natural sites along the route.

Established in 1988, the Coastal Heritage Trail stretches from Perth Amboy to the north, Cape May to the south and Deepwater to the west. The trail contains historic villages, migrating eagles, boardwalks and the nation’s oldest operating lighthouse, among other historic and cultural sites.