By ERIC MEIER
Allenhurst celebrated the opening of its new boardwalk Mon., May 13. A huge American flag was hoisted above the spectators by the local fire department and food stands were also set up.
Mayor David McLaughlin said he was happy to have the boardwalk open in time for summer.
“ We had to completely remove the old one as the old pine wood was rotting and nails were sticking out of it in certain places,” he said. “ We got rid of it all and used a very durable material called ipe wood throughout. The screws that are set within it now won’t stick out like some of the old nails did and it’s very smooth and pleasing to walk on.”
He said the electrical wiring for the lamp posts was all new, too along with new railings.
“We also got brand new railings installed. We predict that we’ll get 50 plus year years out of this new boardwalk, if not more,” he said. “ The goal for us was to make it extremely durable and maintenance free which we did.”
He explained the total cost of the project was roughly $1.5 million.
The mayor also explained to visitors some of the updates made to the neighboring beach club.
“As many of you know, our pool within the beachclub gets emptied and refilled with salt water each day which has been taking a toll on the pool’s inside lining. We recently got the entire lining of the pool replaced. As well, we made updates to most of the 80+ beach cabanas that we have.”
District 11 Assemblywomen Margie Donlon and Luanne Peterpaul were both in attendance and spoke before the crowd. Margie Donlan said she also was happy to see all the updates.
“I actually met my husband surfing just out in front of it here so it means a lot to our family. Also, my eldest daughter learned to walk on it too,” she said.
Assemblywoman Luanne Peterpaul said that her parents lived in Allenhurst for 25 years and it meant a lot to her as well.
“I’m happy to see the wonderful things that Allenhurst does for the community here. They continue to do what is necessary for all their residents ,” she said.