Flood and Storm Hazard Adaptation in New Jersey’s Coastal Zone: Barriers and Opportunities

Abstract

New Jersey’s coastal zone has a long history of storm and flood hazard vulnerability, as documented by copious technical reports, historical maps and surveys, storm damage assessments and flood insurance claims. In the context of geologic time, this vulnerability can be attributed, in part, to increasing sea level rise resulting from melting of Pleistocene glaciers. In the context of human time, extensive development, redevelopment and urbanization of the New Jersey coast has contributed significantly to this vulnerability. At the same time, financial constraints at the state and federal level and increasing taxpayer liability for damage recovery costs will create challenges in long-term adaptation. A number of New Jersey academics have identified the magnitude of natural hazard vulnerabilities and the importance of mitigation to promote public safety, with James K. Mitchell of Rutgers University being one of the notable contributors to that effort. Current mitigation measures may be partially effective in protecting people and property in the short term. However, barriers to effective hazard area management and adaptation planning, including physical, financial, social, demographic and political constraints, need to be addressed. Understanding the scope and impact of these barriers is critical to developing the necessary long-term adaptation plans that will promote a safe and sustainable future for New Jersey.