Statement from Congressman Dan Goldman on New York State Requirements for Comprehensive Approach to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Flood Protection Plan

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today issued the following statement after the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) sent a letter requiring the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to revise their $52.6 billion New York and New Jersey Harbor and Tributaries Study (HATS) storm surge protection plan to include a comprehensive approach to address a multitude of flooding risks. This announcement comes after Congressman Dan Goldman and Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez led twelve Members of Congress from New York and New Jersey in sending a bipartisan letter to the USACE expressing concern that the Corps plan to address flood risk insufficiently protects New York and New Jersey against multiple varieties of flooding.

“I am thrilled that the New York State DEC formally requested that USACE revise their flood protection plan to include a comprehensive approach to flood risks across the New York and New Jersey harbor and tributaries.

“While the initial proposal failed to sufficiently address the flooding risks faced by our communities, I am encouraged at the hope for a revised plan that will protect New York and New Jersey’s coastal communities.

“Our states face a multitude of flooding risks, including not only storm surge but tidal and river flooding, heavy rainfall, groundwater emergence, erosion, and sea level rise. To ignore these flooding threats that endanger our region would be an irresponsible use of taxpayer dollars.

“I am pleased to see that the New York State DEC has heeded the calls to ensure our communities receive comprehensive flood protection in accordance with federal laws. With this important letter from DEC, I expect USACE to promptly issue comprehensive implementation guidance and not delay compliance with the Water Resources Development Acts any longer. This must include a period of public review and comment to ensure that this revised plan adequately addresses community concerns.

“Disadvantaged communities across our region must receive proper protection from all forms of flooding, and they must be included in reviewing and considering these plans. I look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the new plan is comprehensive and has the best interest of New Yorkers at its core.”

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