American Rescue Plan Act Funded Services and ProjectsThe County of Ocean, New Jersey - 2023 Authorized Appropriated ProgramsSince March of 2020, when the coronavirus resulted in a host of state-mandated restrictions affecting schools, businesses, local governments and residents, the financial impact of COVID 19 continues to reverberate throughout our communities. While the virus spread has decreased substantially with the assistance of vaccines and testing, many are still hurting from the fiscal, economical and emotional losses experienced during this time.
Ocean County has begun the process of appropriating funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to assist its municipalities, public health agencies, human services and a host of providers to help those most affected by COVID 19.
Ocean County designed its recovery plan to include the targeting of underserved and marginalized groups within its boundaries. Through various programs, the County has aimed for the inclusion of adversely affected groups. Ocean County is addressing issues affecting non-English speaking persons, senior citizens, the needy and homeless, residents facing eviction, at-risk populations, children and adolescents who may have lost a caregiver due to COVID 19 and mental health issues with an aim toward closing economic gaps and other problems worsened by the pandemic. The plan also includes funding to help with necessary infrastructure projects in some Ocean County towns.
Ocean County held a public hearing its original report on Feb. 7, 2023, at which time comments were accepted from the public on the County’s use of approximately $25.4 million of its first ARPA appropriation of $59 million.
Ocean County held a second public hearing on Aug. 8 at which time comments were received on the ARPA amendment providing for an additional $17.8 million to be invested in County programs and services as outlined in the County’s ARPA plan.
The Ocean County Board of Commissioners approved the amendments during its Aug. 16, 2023 meeting.
The following is a comprehensive list of programs and projects funded by Ocean County with ARPA allocations to date.
|