Despite the devastation left in the wake of super-storm Sandy many Mayors along the Jersey Shore are pledging and/or hoping to be open for business by Memorial Day.

Governor Christie and Kevin McArdle
Governor Christie and Kevin McArdle (Tim Larsen, Governor's Office)
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In a one-on-one interview in his State House office, Governor Chris Christie told Townsquare Media News he thinks Memorial Day may be an optimistic target date.

"I think there will be some things that will be available on Memorial Day," says Christie. "I think a greater target is to have even more things open by the 4th of July. I think that's really the traditional, real opening of the Jersey Shore."

The Governor says the July 4th opening goal makes more sense this year than ever before because he thinks most kids will be in school until the end of June making up for days lost as a result of Sandy. He also expects a "pretty standard winter" in New Jersey this year, which could mean some snow days.

Christie explains, "I think for New Jersey in particular because of Sandy and the effects it's had on schools and Sandy and the effects it's had on the shore that we should be really looking toward 4th of July weekend to say, 'Okay, what are we going to have ready for 4th of July?' I think we'll have some things ready for 4th of July."

The Governor thinks beaches can be ready by the 4th of July. He's hopeful that some of the amusements and entertainment will be ready by then too. He says housing is still an issue and finding places to put tourists is crucial whether it's from a hotel/motel or a rental house perspective.

"The one thing that New Jerseyans can definitely be sure of is that July 4, 2013 will look different than July 4, 2012," explains Christie. "We're not going to be able to bring that back completely in the span of the next six months."

 

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