Governor Announces More Aid to Elevate Homes

Speaking at a press conference held in front of a Valencia Drive residence in Brick, Gov. Christie today announced hazard mitigation elevation assistance that may provide up to $30,000 with no income restrictions. 

Christie used the Ocean County setting to announce the launch of a $100 million home elevation program in the nine counties hardest hit by Superstorm Sandy.

Under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Elevation Program, eligible applicants can receive reimbursement of up to $30,000 for elevations on existing primary, single-family homes. 

The governor's office expects around 2,700 homes to qualify, and those will be determined based on how much damage the homes received during Sandy. 

Brick residents at the conference today were happy about the news, but noted that $30,000 would be enough to raise smaller homes, but not larger ones - which could cost up to $75,000. 

Beginning Monday, Sandy-affected homeowners in Atlantic, Bergen, Cape May, Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean and Union can apply for elevation grant assistance at www.renewjerseystronger.org or by calling 1-855-SANDYHM (1-855-726-3946). People can also apply in person at one of the Housing Recovery Centers open in each of the nine most-impacted counties.