Corrado/Bateman Bill to Combat Storm Flooding Advances

Legislation sponsored by Senator Kristin Corrado and Senator Kip Bateman appropriating almost $34 million for the purchase of flood-prone properties and conservation cleared the Senate Environment and Energy Committee today.

The measure (S-4313) would provide the NJDEP with funds constitutionally dedicated by the voters to purchase land for recreation, conservation, and Blue Acres projects to acquire property in flood-prone areas.

A Senate panel approved Senators Corrado and Bateman to ease flooding in low-lying communities. (Facebook/Manville Flood Action Group)

“Across the state, we have seen the flooding and damage caused by storms like Sandy, Hurricane Irene and poweful nor’easters,” said Corrado (R-40). “Flooding in the Passaic Valley has become a chronic and costly crisis. This will help end the vicious cycle of flooding, fixing, fighting for insurance money, and flooding again. Helping DEP acquire homes built in areas that are prone to frequent flooding will return the land to its natural condition, protecting nearby homes and properties from future storm damage.”

Under the bill, more than $4.6 million is appropriated to DEP specifically to conserve land that has been susceptible to flooding and restore it for recreational use. Every municipality and county in the state is eligible to apply for the money.

“As intended by the voters who made this a priority, the bill ensures these funds will be utilized for important projects to improve the quality of life for New Jersey residents,” said Bateman (R-16). “In towns like Manville and Somerville along the Raritan River in my district where flooding has almost become a way of life, this will help better manage vulnerable land and mitigate the impact of storm flooding.”