Assemblywoman Marlene Caride (D-Bergen/Passaic) this week called on New Jersey’s congressional delegation to help ensure that the federal government does not divert much-needed funds to help New Jersey continue rebuilding in the wake of Superstorm Sandy.
In doing so, Caride sent a letter to U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker and Congressman Bill Pascrell, all of whom represent Caride’s 36th legislative district, which was hit hard by Superstorm Sandy. Caride was prompted by recent news accounts that U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan is contemplating diverting money from the third round of federal aid due to New Jersey to instead be used for resiliency projects in other states thereby opening the door to a nationwide competition for funds.
“I witnessed firsthand the devastation left in the wake of Superstorm Sandy in many of the towns in my district,” said Caride. “Eighteen months later, Little Ferry and Moonachie, along with many of the towns along the Passaic River in the 36th district, are still trying to get back to normal. Residents, businesses and local government are still working to repair and rebuild their homes, livelihoods and communities. They still need federal assistance to rebuild, repair or elevate their homes. Without the third round of aid, our towns will not be able to fully recover.”
A full copy of Caride’s letter can be viewed here.