TOMS RIVER, NJ – There was once an offshore race at the Jersey Shore called the Benihana Grand Prix. It was an annual speedboat race off the coast in the Atlantic Ocean. Some even called it the Indy 500 of powerboat racing.
A new type of Benihana race is ready to wave the green flag on Friday. The race from North Jersey to the Jersey Shore. A modern-day Bennyhana
In the northern part of the Jersey Shore, the term Benny is affectionately used to refer to the tourists who pack the streets each summer. Further south, they are called Shoobies.
The first glimpse of the Bennies and Shoobies can be seen from Benny Hill, the Driscoll Bridge on the Garden State Parkway that ceremoniously divides North Jersey and the Jersey Shore.
With the arrival of Memorial Day weekend, the New Jersey Shore prepares for its annual transformation into a bustling destination for tourists and local beachgoers. As summer begins, the influx of travelers on highways to coastal destinations brings both economic benefits and logistical challenges.
Local businesses, including boardwalk vendors and seaside restaurants, rely heavily on the summer season for the bulk of their annual revenue, benefiting significantly from the increased foot traffic. However, the swell in tourism also presents various challenges. Traffic congestion on key routes such as the Garden State Parkway and Route 72 often results in long delays and extended travel times, affecting both visitors eager to reach the beaches and residents trying to navigate their daily routines.
The region’s infrastructure is also tested during the summer months. The demand for public services, like waste management and emergency services, increases substantially, putting pressure on local resources. Town officials respond by boosting staffing levels and enhancing coordination with law enforcement to manage the seasonal crowds effectively.
Environmental concerns also come to the forefront as the shores contend with increased litter and potential harm to local wildlife habitats. To address these issues, community groups and local authorities organize beach clean-ups and promote responsible tourism practices.
As the summer progresses, the New Jersey Shore aims to balance welcoming tourists with maintaining the quality of life for its residents. Through careful planning and community cooperation, the goal is to ensure the season is enjoyable and sustainable for all who visit or live along the picturesque shores.
“We’re going to win New York,” Trump told the crowd, signaling that his campaign is committed to winning the perennial blue state over.