By Mike Dougherty

TRENTON, N.J. (CBS) – New Jersey governor Chris Christie has put a price tag on the destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy.

According to a preliminary damage assessment, the Sandy’s caused about $29.4 billion worth of damage to personal property, businesses as well as transportation and utility infrastructure in the Garden State.

In a statement issued Friday, the Governor says that number is the most accurate figure they could come up with, for now.

“This preliminary number is based on the best available data, field observations and geographical mapping, and supported by expert advice from my Cabinet commissioners and an outside consulting company,” said Governor Christie.

“In a short period of time, we put together a comprehensive and responsible estimate, which may increase in the weeks ahead, and I stand ready to work with our Congressional delegation and the Obama Administration to get the funding support New Jersey expects and deserves in the aftermath of this catastrophe.

“We will continue to provide immediate relief for our citizens who were struck hard by Sandy,” the Governor continued. “But be assured, I will spare no effort and waste no time to rebuild and restore our tourism industry, our transportation and utilities infrastructure and the lives of our citizens for the long term.”