$3.4B Needed For Flooding Problems Along Passaic River
POMPTON LAKES, NJ (AP / WCBS 880) - Money will be needed to ease flooding problems along New Jersey's 935-square-mile Passaic River Basin.
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WCBS 880's Sean Adams reports from Little Falls
A special flood advisory commission created by Gov. Chris Christie released 15 recommendations on Thursday.
The panel calls for a moratorium on new construction in the basin's flood plains, which span the eastern Highlands region, Pompton Valley and the Watchung Mountains.
The most expensive option would be to spend an estimated $3.4 billion to buy all vulnerable properties.
Environmental Protection Commissioner Bob Martin told The Record newspaper the building moratorium would not conflict with Christie's support of more development because there are plenty of places to build.
Jack Switzer is waiting for help in Little Falls.
"I think it's a good idea. I think they're trying. I think the wheels of government turn slow though," Switzer told WCBS 880 reporter Sean Adams.
Switzer's home is supposed to be raised on taller foundation.
Christie created the commission after floods in March caused more than $33 million in damage.
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