Pallone Secures $1.57 Million for Sayreville Wetland Restoration and Flood Resilience

Sayreville, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced $1.57 million in federal funding for the Borough of Sayreville to advance flood resilience and ecosystem restoration. The funding will support the design phase for restoring 188 acres of wetlands and upland habitats, a vital project to protect Sayreville residents from worsening tidal and storm flooding.

The restoration will also improve habitat for iconic species such as ospreys, bald eagles, and terrapins, delivering both environmental and community benefits.

“The wetlands along the South River in Sayreville are one of the largest and most significant ecosystems in the Raritan River watershed,” Pallone said. “I’m proud to have secured this funding to restore these natural defenses against flooding, enhance critical wildlife habitats, and protect our communities from the impacts of climate change. By investing in projects like this, we’re not only safeguarding families and businesses but also ensuring the long-term health of our environment.”

“We are beyond grateful for this grant funding from NFWF.  Since Hurricane Sandy we have been working hard to improve our flood resiliency to protect our town.  This opportunity will be a giant step forward in providing that resiliency and habitat restoration along the South River,” Mayor Kennedy O’Brien.

The funding, provided through the National Coastal Resilience Fund, will enable Sayreville to restore degraded wetlands, enhancing the area’s natural ability to manage stormwater and tidal flooding. The project builds on ongoing efforts to address years of ecosystem degradation and to protect local communities from climate-related impacts.

Stretching over 650 acres, the wetlands ecosystem along the South River in Sayreville is one of New Jersey’s largest natural resources and a critical part of the broader Raritan River watershed. This restoration effort will revitalize the region while addressing the increasing risks of coastal flooding.

The National Coastal Resilience Fund is a public-private partnership that provides funding for projects aimed at strengthening natural infrastructure, reducing coastal flooding, and protecting ecosystems and communities from the impacts of climate change. Established with support from Congress, the Fund exemplifies federal efforts to safeguard vulnerable coastal regions while fostering collaboration with local stakeholders and private organizations to achieve long-term resilience.