City of Hoboken

Building Urban Resilience in the Square Mile City

Due to its location on the Hudson River and its natural history as a former tidal marsh, Hoboken is prone to flooding and is vulnerable to hurricanes. Increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather and flooding exacerbate these water management challenges. Between July 2002 and July 2012, the City experienced precipitation of more than 2 inches and tides of 4 feet or higher on 26 occasions. In addition, the City—which has 98% impervious area—has an aging combined sewer system that is overtaxed and overflows during heavy rains.

Hoboken’s Green Infrastructure Strategic Plan (Plan) set the foundation for the City’s comprehensive adoption of place-based green infrastructure and permeable surfaces designed to capture more stormwater where it falls before it reaches the combined sewer system. The Plan was developed in 2013 as part of the Together New Jersey regional planning effort funded by a $5 million Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The City’s program has and continues to grow. Download the full case study to learn more about Hoboken’s program.