Beaches across Ocean County are being replenished beginning Monday. The total project costs $73.5 million. It includes $30.2 million in funding from the federal infrastructure bill passed by Congress.

According to Seaside Heights Borough Mayor Tony Vaz, taxpayers won't feel the pinch.

Vaz said 75% of the project is being funded by the federal government, 25% is coming from the state, and the county commission will front the remaining 25%.

"It's a very costly venture and one that we need. It's a protection from inclement weather, severe weather, flooding," said Vaz. "It's not a stop-gap, completely, but it will slow the process down, in the event of a serious hurricane."

The project was potentially on the line after federal funding was in question. There were also some contracting delays.

However, the contract for the ocean dredging and sand distribution was ultimately given to Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company.

A total of 2.1 million cubic yards of sand will be dredged and distributed throughout the shoreline over the course of about six to seven months. It begins at Seaside Heights.

Here is a tentative schedule according to Rep. Chris Smith: