NJ Adopts New Flood Maps for Rebuilding

Gov. Chris Christie says New Jersey is adopting the advisory flood maps released last month by the federal government to help guide rebuilding following Superstorm Sandy.

The maps establish new standards for rebuilding along the Jersey Shore. They show a higher risk of flooding in some areas than the old maps did and establish tougher guidelines for rebuilding, including in some places higher elevations.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency expects to take 18 to 24 months to adopt the standards. Christie says it didn't make sense to use old maps to guide New Jersey's rebuilding or wait for FEMA to formally adopt them.

The governor says he believes there are “very few places” where New Jerseyans won't be able to rebuild.

Christie warns those who don't rebuild according to the new flood map standards could see greatly higher insurance costs.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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