JCP&L’s Followup Fire Inspection Findings Released [AUDIO]

Electric utility Jersey Central Power and Light (JCP&L) conducts an inspection of its own at the the site determined to be the origin of the massive Seaside Boardwalk Fire.

JCP&L Vice President of Operations Anthony Hurley says, at the request of the State Board of Public Utilities (BPU), they sent a team of safety, engineering and operations personnel to the area Wednesday morning.

"And after reviewing engineering records and drawings and also the field visit itself, have verified that within the area that has been identified as where the fire began, JCP&L does not have any infrastructure," explains Hurley.

The utility's Director of Operations, Ralph Hillmer, says following the Superstorm they replaced the meters that fed electricity to the area once the borough notified them that flooded electric infrastructure passed an electrical inspection.

Hurley says their role in the matter is essentially over unless the BPU request further involvement.

In previous reports, Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph Coronado announced Tuesday that an electrical problem partially created by Superstorm Sandy is to blame for last week's boardwalk fire because the aging electrical wiring was "compromised" by sand and water.

Wednesday, Coronado released the fire site to Seaside Park and Seaside Heights officials.

In a written statement he said business owners are now free to pursue rebuilding efforts and local fire and police officials are responsible for security at the site and any fire containment updates.

Additionally, the Christie Administration will be holding another one of its Mobile Cabinets in Seaside Park to assist residents and businesses affected by the fire. Representatives from various state agencies will be on hand at Seaside Park Elementary School today from 3 to 9 p.m.