The Sustainable Jersey Climate Vulnerability Assessment Technical Assistance (TA) Program offers free technical assistance to municipalities in New Jersey for conducting a Climate Change-Related Hazard Vulnerability Assessment (CCRHVA). Funded by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Resilient NJ Program and the American Recovery Plan Act, this program helps municipalities meet state requirements by integrating climate hazard assessments into their master plans. The application period runs from September 20, 2024, to December 20, 2024, with a firm deadline of 11:59 P.M. on December 20, 2024. This program is an opportunity for municipalities to build long-term climate resilience by addressing vulnerabilities to climate-related natural hazards.

Eligible applicants include any municipal government in New Jersey that has not previously received support through NJDEP’s Resilient NJ program. Municipalities must adopt a formal resolution of participation, which needs to be submitted along with the online application. The resolution should affirm the municipality’s commitment to working on the CCRHVA and ensure that municipal resources, such as planning staff, are available to guide the process. Applications are submitted online through a Google form, and a signed and dated resolution must be emailed to the program contact.

The program spans approximately 12 months, beginning in February 2025 and ending in May 2026. Municipalities are expected to adopt the completed CCRHVA into their Land Use Plan Element, fulfilling the requirements of New Jersey’s Municipal Land Use Law (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-28). The assessment involves identifying current and future climate-related hazards, analyzing potential impacts on critical infrastructure and public services, and proposing strategies to mitigate these risks. The assistance does not include direct funding, but provides access to expert guidance and technical support.

Key responsibilities for participating municipalities include designating a project lead and team, involving municipal staff with relevant expertise, and engaging a professional planner to review the draft and final versions of the CCRHVA. Municipalities are also required to provide relevant planning documents, GIS data, and support for public engagement. The program encourages collaboration between local officials, planners, and the community to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive assessment process.

The selection process, running from December 20, 2024, to January 31, 2025, will evaluate applications based on eligibility, municipal commitment, and community demographics. Priority will be given to Environmental Justice or Overburdened Communities. Up to 15 municipalities will be selected for this round of technical assistance, with notifications sent by early February 2025. Selected municipalities must be prepared to actively participate in the program and provide necessary resources and personnel for the assessment’s successful completion.