The funding, formally accepted by the Board of County Commissioners on June 3, will support Phase II of the county’s Hazard Mitigation Flood Warning System and be incorporated into the 2025 county budget.
The investment represents advancement in the county’s ongoing efforts to improve flood preparedness and safeguard residents.
Commissioner Director John E. Lanza underscored the initiative’s importance, stating, “Hunterdon County has faced devastating flooding events that have taken a toll on lives and infrastructure. This FEMA grant enables us to expand our flood warning system, equipping us with real-time alerts that will strengthen emergency response efforts and help reduce future risks.”
The grant stems from concerns raised by the county’s Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management, and was secured through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Program in partnership with the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management (NJOEM).
The project is divided into two phases. Phase I partnered with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to collect and analyze rainfall and flood data from the Neshanic River and other key areas. This data will enhance flood warning systems used by local and county officials to anticipate and prepare for flood-related emergencies.
Phase II, supported by this new round of funding, focuses on infrastructure enhancements — including the installation of floodgate systems at key flood-prone locations. One major installation site includes the intersection of County Route 514 and Reaville Road near the Neshanic River. These gates will be closed during flood conditions to restrict traffic and protect motorists from dangerous floodwaters.
“By integrating USGS stream gauges, rainfall sensors, and real-time hydrometric data, Hunterdon County is taking a proactive stance in flood readiness,” Lanza said. Adding, “Phase II will further enhance our capabilities, providing traffic restricting gate systems in areas prone to repetitive flooding over the last two decades. It also lays the groundwork for future public safety and disaster resilience investments.”
Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.
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