New Jersey has bought out and demolished approximately 1,200 properties in flood-prone areas as part of a statewide effort to mitigate the impact of increasingly severe weather events. The initiative aims to reduce the risk of flooding by converting residential areas back into open space, offering homeowners in vulnerable locations an opportunity to relocate.

The program targets communities like Manville, a working-class town about 25 miles southwest of Newark, which has a long history of flooding from tropical storms, nor'easters, and heavy rainfall. Richard Onderko, a former resident of Manville, recounted the frequent flooding that plagued his childhood home, recalling one instance in 1971 when he and his brother had to be rescued by boat during Hurricane Doria. He noted that the constant threat of flooding strained his parents' marriage, eventually leading them to move to Florida.

The state-run program purchases properties from willing sellers in designated flood zones. Once acquired, the houses are demolished, and the land is permanently preserved as open space. This approach aims to reduce the overall flood risk in the area by providing a buffer zone for floodwaters and preventing future development in vulnerable locations.

The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for proactive measures to address the increasing frequency and intensity of flooding events, driven in part by climate change. Similar programs are being implemented in other states and municipalities across the country, often with federal funding support. These buyouts are not without controversy, as some residents are reluctant to leave their homes and communities, even in the face of repeated flooding. The success of such programs hinges on fair compensation, effective communication, and community involvement.

The long-term effectiveness of New Jersey's program will depend on continued funding, ongoing monitoring of flood patterns, and adaptation to evolving climate conditions. The state is also exploring other flood mitigation strategies, such as building levees, improving drainage systems, and implementing stricter building codes in flood-prone areas.