SKYLER D. COHEN

IMPLEMENTING THE FLOOD MITIGATION PLAN

In partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Cresskill now has a recommended flood-protection plan. The Army Corps released a draft in January 2025, and the final version will be signed off in August 2025, letting construction planning begin right away. As mayor, I will ensure this critical project moves forward efficiently.

• Execute the Army Corps Flood Protection Plan
  Implement the recommended flood control measures from the Army Corps study, including the proposed flood walls, channel modifications, and protection systems for critical facilities.
  Why it matters: Our community invested about $21.6 million approved by voters in 2022 to rebuild the Middle/High School after the 2021 flood. We must protect this investment and prevent future disaster. With federal funding covering 65% of costs (up to $10 million), we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to solve our flooding problems. The remaining 35% will be covered mostly by state resilience grants (NJ DEP capital funds), so our local tax bills stay protected.
• Maintain and Enhance Stormwater Systems
  Implement a proactive maintenance program for Cresskill's stormwater infrastructure, with regular inspection and clearing of stream channels, culverts, and drainage systems.
  Why it matters: Investigation after the 2021 flood showed that blocked waterways and inadequate drainage contributed to the disaster. Regular maintenance is a cost-effective way to prevent flooding and protect our community.
• Quick-Win School Protections
  Seal ground-level doors and vents, deploy portable flood barriers, and install backup pumps at the Middle/High School while the larger project is under design.
  Why it matters: These simple upgrades mean one hard rain can’t close our school again.
• Improve Emergency Response Coordination
  Strengthen communication between town officials, county authorities, utilities, and residents during extreme weather events.
  Why it matters: During past flooding events, coordination issues between water management authorities and local officials hampered effective response. Better communication systems will allow for faster action when water levels rise.

MY INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN

• Comprehensive Infrastructure Master Plan
  Develop a comprehensive infrastructure master plan based on professional assessments and resident feedback.
  Why it matters: A master plan provides the framework for strategic decision-making, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently and all neighborhoods receive equitable attention. This prevents the reactive, piecemeal approach that often leads to higher costs and recurring problems.
• Critical Water System Upgrades
  Address critical water system upgrades immediately to resolve any safety concerns.
  Why it matters: Our aging water infrastructure faces reliability challenges and potential safety issues. Prioritizing these upgrades ensures clean, reliable water delivery while preventing costly emergency repairs.
• Traffic Pattern Redesign
  Redesign traffic patterns near schools and downtown using data-driven analysis to reduce congestion.
  Why it matters: Traffic congestion around schools creates safety hazards for children and frustration for parents and residents. Smart traffic pattern redesign can significantly improve both safety and quality of life with minimal investment.
• Pedestrian Safety Improvements
  Implement cost-effective "quick-build" street improvements for pedestrian safety.
  Why it matters: Simple, low-cost interventions like improved crosswalks, curb extensions, and better signage can dramatically enhance pedestrian safety, particularly for children and seniors. These improvements also support local businesses by making downtown more walkable.
• Protected Bike Lane Network
  Build a network of protected bike lanes, prioritizing routes connecting neighborhoods, schools, and downtown, seeking grant funding where possible.
  Why it matters: Safe cycling infrastructure reduces traffic congestion, provides transportation options for all ages, improves public health, and enhances environmental sustainability—all while potentially qualifying for state and federal grants.
• Neighborhood Rain Gardens & Shade Trees
  We’ll add simple, green solutions—rain gardens, extra trees, and water-soaking pavement—so our streets absorb more water instead of pushing it toward homes. By capturing rainfall where it lands, these projects cut flood risk, cool summer streets, and make our neighborhoods greener for everyday walks and bike rides.
  Why it matters: Green infrastructure gives us flood protection, shade, and curb appeal in one affordable package—saving tax dollars while making Cresskill safer and more beautiful.
• Digital Reporting System
  Launch a digital reporting system for residents to flag infrastructure issues efficiently. You’ll also see a live dashboard showing flood-project milestones and the latest brook-clearing schedule.
  Why it matters: Residents are the town's eyes and ears. A simple digital system enables rapid reporting of issues like potholes, broken streetlights, or water main leaks, allowing for faster response and better tracking of recurring problems. This aligns with my commitment to leverage technology for better governance.

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE: THE SMART APPROACH

One of the most cost-effective infrastructure strategies is consistent preventive maintenance. The 2021 flood demonstrated what happens when infrastructure isn't prepared for extreme events. My administration will prioritize prevention over reaction.

I will set aside a small, steady funding stream—using state grants or redevelopment fees—so flood walls and drains are maintained year after year.

Studies show that every $1 spent on preventive maintenance saves $4-$5 in future rehabilitation costs (according to FHWA lifecycle-cost guidance). The 2021 flood cost our community over $20 million - much of which could have been prevented with proper infrastructure planning. My administration will prioritize this approach to maximize the value of our infrastructure investments.

IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE

PUBLIC SAFETY ENHANCEMENTS

Quality infrastructure directly impacts public safety. Beyond the specific infrastructure improvements outlined above, I will advocate for these additional safety enhancements: