Toms River Businesses to Receive Sandy Grant Funding

Tardi’s Ristorante Italiano and Pine Rest Motel, both in Toms River, will receive funding from the state's Economic Development Authority to assist in Sandy recovery, officials said.

The funding comes from federal sources.

Gaurang Jariwala, owner of Pine Rest Motel and several other motels in Toms River and Seaside, has already observed an uptick in tourism activity.

“We’re seeing a jump in bookings now that the weather is nice, and are optimistic that this summer will be much better than last,” Jariwala said in a statement from the EDA.

Anthony Tardi, owner of Tardi’s Ristorante Italiano agreed that the business climate is improving. 

"With more year-round residents back in their homes and more seasonal rentals and hotels ready for vacationers, this will surely be a stronger summer than last.  We are excited to see our regular customers returning and hope many new customers will pay us a visit," he said.

So far, according to EDA officials, over $31.9 million in Stronger NJ Business Grants and Loans has been approved to support 270 businesses in Ocean County; more than 620 businesses statewide have been approved for over $67.8 million in assistance.

After hosting workshops in Surf City and Toms River this week, the state agency will host a “Documentation Day” July 9 at Staples in Brick, during which business owners that have started applications for Stronger NJ Business Grants and Loans can have copies of required documentation made free of charge, by EDA staff, courtesy of Staples. 

For more information on the Stronger NJ Business programs, visit http://application.njeda.com/strongernjbusiness or call EDA’s Sandy hotline at 1-855-SANDY-BZ (1-855-726-3929).