Hunterdon County Commissioner Board approves FEMA grant for installation of roadway floodgate devices
HUNTERDON COUNTY, NJ – The Hunterdon County Commissioner Board recently passed a resolution to accept a FEMA sub-grant award of up to $65,211.85, which will be used to install lifesaving traffic diversion equipment on county and local roads.
This funding is a key step in the county’s ongoing efforts to reduce the impact of flooding and enhance public safety for residents.
Commissioner Zach Rich, who also serves as the liaison to the Department of Public Safety/OEM, stated, “This project reflects our commitment to safeguarding the lives of our residents and the infrastructure of Hunterdon County. With the support of FEMA, we are taking proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of future flooding events.”
The sub-grant award is part of a larger flood mitigation project aimed at reducing the damage caused by severe weather events such as Hurricane Ida, which devastated the region in September 2021.
Hunterdon County experienced significant flooding during Hurricane Ida, which led to the tragic loss of six lives from motorists caught in floodwaters, as well as severe damage to critical infrastructure. Heavy rain events over the past 25 years have caused major flooding, damaging roads, bridges, and other infrastructure around the Neshanic River basin area. This area, known for repetitive flooding, has required numerous water rescues by first responders.
The funding for the project, made available through FEMA and NJOEM Hazard Mitigation Funds, will be used in two phases. The first phase will involve collaborating with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to analyze rainfall and flood data in the Neshanic River basin and other locations throughout the county. This data will help improve warning systems to alert county and local officials about potential flooding risks.
The second phase will focus on installing floodgate systems at key locations, including on CR514 and Everitts Road near the Neshanic River. These floodgates will restrict traffic flow during heavy rainfall and flooding, preventing hazardous conditions and protecting residents from floodwaters.
“The county continues to prioritize forward-thinking solutions to lessen the dangers posed by future major storm events. This FEMA sub-grant represents our commitment to protecting our residents, and we are grateful for the support from FEMA and NJOEM as we work to prevent further loss of life due to flooding,” Rich said.
