Signs of a Shore Comeback

No one expected the Jersey Shore to rebound quickly following Hurricane Sandy. 

Resort communities all along the coast are still rebuilding, hoping to have everything up and in working order by the summer tourist season. While a pre-Sandy existence is the ultimate goal, shore towns are making strides every day.

It's not there yet, but it will be.

On a cold and blustery Saturday in Point Pleasant Beach, visitors walked the boards - those sections that have been finished - to see the construction progress, patronize some game stalls, and enjoy rides on the recently re-opened Jenkinson's Boardwalk.

"It means a lot to us to see this re-opened," Point Beach resident Michelle Lebowitz said. "That's why we're here today, even in the cold."

Access to the beach is still restricted. Giant piles of sand, waiting to be redistributed, block the ocean view.

In some spots, those areas where the boardwalk has yet to be repaired, chain link fences have been erected, directing visitors to the street. 

Even in the amusement park, work is still being done. Caution tape blocked access to the miniature railroad, which is still under construction, and the section of the boards with some of the larger rides, including Jenkinson's roller coaster, was closed to the public. 

The timetable for complete restoration varies depending on whom you ask, but things are progressing quickly. More boards are added every day. Businesses are opening their doors. Soon, the giant piles of sand will be redistributed to the beaches.

Even though signs of destruction remain, Jennifer Riback, whose husband captains local party boat Queen Mary, said it's crucial to show that the Jersey Shore is coming back.

"The earlier that businesses open and get the word out that they're open, the better it will be for everyone," she said. "As long as they're ready, they should open. People will come, they love it here."