Christie touts Shore’s economy, beaches

N.J. Gov. Chris Christie was down the Shore Wednesday, meeting with people on the Belmar boardwalk to highlight the importance of water quality to the economy.

As shore visitors relaxed in the sun, Christie made his first public beach walk as governor. He says maintaining the commitment to keeping the ocean water and beaches clean is integral to the state’s economic future.

“About 193,000 private-sector jobs, over $6 billion in wages and salaries are generated by businesses on the Jersey shore,” Christie said. “People come here because they know they can have a great time with their family, because they can sit on great beaches like the one behind me, and swim in a clean ocean.”

Christie cited his restoration of beach-replenishment funds and opposition to offshore drilling and liquefied natural gas facilities as helping to maintain water quality.

Because of the good conditions, Christie says businesses all along the Jersey shore are having a great summer.

“The weather has cooperated with us very well this year, and I think we’re letting everybody know that the water quality is as good or better as it’s been in years,” he said.