Congresswoman Pou Announces $16.6 Million in FEMA Water Projects for North Jersey Communities

Passaic brook was the site of tragic drowning of two young adults in 2021

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09), a member of the House Subcommittee on Water Resources, today announced Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awards totaling $16,654,166.68 that will go to Passaic County, Bergen County, and Passaic City for flood control efforts.

“North Jersey knows all too well the devastation that flooding can cause. From Superstorm Sandy to Hurricane Ida, our communities have paid a heavy price when water infrastructure fails and rebuilding takes years,” said Congresswoman Pou. “These three FEMA grants totaling more than $16.6 million are a critical investment in strengthening wastewater systems and rebuilding to be both smarter and safer. That these storms happened years ago and rebuilding still continues show the lasting impacts and scars. Federal support like this money allows local governments to complete projects that are simply too large to manage alone. As flooding becomes more frequent and severe, improving water infrastructure is no longer optional – it is essential.”

Pou added: “I want to note that one of these funding awards will be used at McDonalds Brook, where youngsters Nidhi Rana and Ayush Rana tragically drowned in October 2021. We remember Nidhi and Ayush and these federal funds will be used to ensure we don’t endure similar devastating tragedies again.”

“As storms become larger and more dangerous, the impacts will be felt acutely in cities like Passaic. Greater federal investments are essential to help communities adapt. I thank Congresswoman Pou for her partnership in securing this funding. The tragic loss of Nidhi Rana and Ayush Rana during Hurricane Ida reminds us why this work matters. I am proud of the proactive steps our administration has taken to position Passaic for these investments and ensure our residents are protected,” said Passaic City Mayor Hector Lora.

FEMA Awards Breakdown

• Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission: $8,594,454.56 for flood hazard mitigation from Hurricane Sandy
• Bergen County Utilities Authority: $6,170,297.13 for costs related to hazard mitigation and damage repair from Hurricane Sandy
• City of Passaic: $1,889,414.99 for repairs and rebuilding around McDonald’s Brook damaged by Hurricane Ida

Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09) recently secured $9,711,000 for 11 separate community projects in the Ninth District, including several measures to replace lead pipes and provide clean water.