NJ to spend $28.7M on dam repairs under new law signed by governor
TRENTON, N.J. — A bill championed by Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia to restore and repair dams across New Jersey was signed into law Tuesday, unlocking $28.7 million in unused bond funds to finance 17 critical infrastructure projects.
The measure (A3951/S2594) draws on unspent money from a 1992 clean water bond and a 2003 flood control bond. It allows dam owners—including private owners and lake associations—to partner with local governments to access loans for long-overdue repairs.
Key Points:
- $28.7 million in unused state bond funds approved for dam repairs
- 17 restoration projects to be funded under the new law
- Nearly half of NJ’s 1,730 regulated dams are privately owned
Delayed legislation addresses long-standing safety risks
Originally introduced in 2022 by Republican lawmakers, the legislation stalled until Democratic legislators joined as sponsors in 2024. Fantasia, a Republican representing Sussex County, voiced frustration over the delay.
“It is inexplicable that this legislation has not moved sooner – specific dams pose serious threats to public safety and environmental stability,” Fantasia said. “We cannot afford to wait when lives and livelihoods are at stake.”
Sussex County contains the highest number of dams in the state, many of which are classified as high-hazard due to their potential to cause serious destruction if they fail.
Infrastructure aging as threats mount
According to the state Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Dam Safety, New Jersey is home to 1,730 regulated dams, many of which are concentrated in northern and central counties. Nearly 50 percent are privately owned, often lacking the resources needed for proper maintenance and repair.
Fantasia emphasized that even minor dam failures can carry hefty cleanup costs and long-term economic impacts. While the state has not been part of any FEMA disaster declarations solely related to dam failures, Tropical Storm Irene in 2011 caused six failures and damaged 51 dams, leading to widespread destruction and 12 fatalities.
Law aims to prevent future storm damage and preserve resources
The new law is designed to streamline cooperation between dam owners and municipalities to implement needed repairs before future storm events test the state’s infrastructure.
“Our lakes and reservoirs enhance the beauty of New Jersey by providing unmatched recreational opportunities and wildlife habitats,” Fantasia said. “This funding ensures that necessary repairs can proceed without delay, using resources already available.”
