Floodplain Management - Community Rating System
The Township of Cranford is bisected by the Rahway River. Naturally, during times of heavy rainfall, the river swells and sometimes overflows its banks. Severe storms, such as Hurricane Irene in 2011, have led to serious flood events in the Township. Due to our exposure to this natural hazard, the Township has taken a proactive approach to regulating land use and providing accurate information to its residents regarding flood risk. It is our hope that the restrictions, regulations, and public education efforts will ultimately mitigate the potential future risk and damage related to the next flood.
Our efforts include the creation of the Cranford Flood Advisory Committee (CFAC) in 1997, providing floodplain Q & A as well as on-site consultation for flood related issues and concerns, and coordinated efforts between the Office of Planning & Zoning and the Township Engineer on the review of all applications in the floodplain. The Township currently has one Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) on staff along with the Township's consulting engineer who is also a Certified Floodplain Manager. Our sttaff and consulting professionals work closely to ensure that all development and improvements in the floodplain meet the strict standards established by the Township, the State, and the federal government.
The Township also participates in FEMA's Community Rating System (CRS). The Community Rating System is program that incentivizes municipalites to effectively and responsibly manage their floodplain management efforts. Our participation in the CRS program affords property owners who currently hold a flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program a 15% discount on their premiums.
IMPORTANT LINKS AND RESOURCES
FEMA - Floodplain Management
FEMA - Flood Map Service Center
Floodsmart - The National Flood Insurance Program
Cranford Flood Advisory Committee
Updated March 4, 2020