SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
9.11 TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
This section presents the jurisdictional annex for the Township of Robbinsville.
9.11.1 HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN POINT OF CONTACT
The following individuals have been identified as the hazard mitigation plan’s primary and alternate points of
contact.
Primary Point of Contact
Lt. Michael Polaski, Police
1117 Route 130 North, Robbinsville, NJ 08691
(609) 259-3900
[email protected]
Alternate Point of Contact
Det. Scott Kivet, Police
1117 Route 130 North, Robbinsville, NJ 08691
(609) 259-3900
[email protected]
9.11.2 MUNICIPAL PROFILE
The Township of Robbinsville is located in southeastern Mercer County and has a total area of 20.5 square miles.
According to the 2010 Census, the population of the Township was 13,642. Robbinsville (then known as
Washington) was formed by an act of the New Jersey Legislature in March 1859 after a group of independent
minded citizens petitioned to separate from East Windsor Township. A year later, the first town election and
annual meeting was held to establish Washington Township. The Township voted to change its name from
Washington Township to Robbinsville Township in 2007, with the change becoming effective January 1, 2008.
The Township is bordered to the north by West Windsor and East Windsor Townships; to the east by East
Windsor Township and Monmouth County (Upper Freehold and Millstone Townships); to the south by
Monmouth County (Borough of Allentown and Upper Freehold Township); and to the west by Hamilton
Township. There are several unincorporated communities found in the Township and include: Allens Station,
Carsons Mills, Hillside Terrace, Meadows Terrace, New Canton, New Sharon, Pages Corners and Windsor.
Bear Brook, Assunpink Creek, New Sharon Branch, Indian Run, Miry Run, Edges Brook, and Back Creek all
flow through the Township.
Growth/Development Trends
The following table summarizes recent residential/commercial development since 2011 to present and any
known or anticipated major residential/commercial development and major infrastructure development that has
been identified in the next five years within the municipality. Refer to the map in Section 9.11.8 of this annex
which illustrates the hazard areas along with the location of potential new development.
Table 9.11-1. Growth and Development
Property or
Development
Name
Springside
Development /
Sharbell Corp.
Hankins Road /
Bear Creek
Estates
Route 130SB at
Hankins Rd /
Type
(e.g. Res.,
Comm.)
Residential
Large Single
Family
Residential
Commercial
# of Units / Structures
Address and/or
Block & Lot
Recent Development from 2011 to Present
150 Single Family
Gordon Road, btwn
Detached and Attached.
Bresnahan and Route
Three independent Retail
130
Building.
42 Acres, Hankins
18 Single Family
Road, 1500ft East of
Detached
South Lane
Multiple Mixed- use
Route 130SB at
Commercial structures.
Hankins Rd
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
Known
Hazard
Zone(s)
Description /
Status of
Development
No Hazards
recognized
In construction
No Hazards
recognized
In Construction
No Hazards
recognized
In construction
9.11-1
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Property or
Development
Name
Ct Hankins Road
LLC
Type
(e.g. Res.,
Comm.)
Various Large
Warehouses /
Matrix Corp.
Commercial/
Distribution
Centers
Town Center –
South / Sharbell
Corp.
Springside
Development
Future Plan
# of Units / Structures
Stipmalls and Detached
fixed Structures
Address and/or
Block & Lot
Known
Hazard
Zone(s)
New Canton Way,
Montgomery Way,
Commercial /
No Hazards
John Henry Drive,
Distribution Centers
Recognized
Applegate Drive
Extension
Known or Anticipated Development in the Next Five (5) Years
Route 33 East,
Mixed Use
N/A
between Route 526
No
Res/Com.
and Washington Blvd.
Condos and
Potential
Congregate
Gordon Road Care,
Northside at Route
No
including
130
plans for
commercial
development
Description /
Status of
Development
Complete
In process under
Economic
review.
In process,
under Economic
review
* Only location-specific hazard zones or vulnerabilities identified.
9.11.3 NATURAL HAZARD EVENT HISTORY SPECIFIC TO THE MUNICIPALITY
Mercer County has a history of natural and non-natural hazard events as detailed in Volume I, Section 5.0 of this
plan. A summary of historical events is provided in each of the hazard profiles and includes a chronology of
events that have affected the County and its municipalities. For the purpose of this plan update, events that have
occurred in the County from 2008 to present were summarized to indicate the range and impact of hazard events
in the community.
Information regarding specific damages at the municipal level, is presented in the table below. This summary
is based on reference material or local sources. For further details on these and additional events, refer to Volume
I, Section 5.0 of this plan.
Table 9.11-2. Hazard Event History
Date(s) of
Event
March 13,
2010
February 4,
2011
Event
Type
Severe
Storm
(high
wind)
Severe
Winter
Storm and
Snowstorm
FEMA
Declaration #
(If Applicable)
County
Designated?
DR-1897
Yes
DR-1954
Yes
August 26 –
September 5,
2011
Hurricane
Irene
DR-4021
Yes
October 26 –
November 8,
2012
Hurricane
Sandy
DR-4086
Yes
Summary of Damages/Losses
This event closed Route 526 for approximately 36 hours
and seven telephone poles collapsed and caused road
closures. Public assistance was requested in the amount of
$14,122.41 (emergency protective services).
This event led to isolated road closures due to snow drifts
and isolated power outages. Public assistance was
requested in the amount of $40,009.38 (emergency
protective services and snow removal).
Hurricane Irene led to multiple road closures and impacted
several highways (Route 130, Route 33, and Route 526) in
the Township. The JCP&L substation was completely
flooded. Public assistance was requested in the amount of
$40,576.13 (emergency protective services and debris
removal).
The impacts of Hurricane Sandy closed several roads for
up to five days due to downed trees and power lines
(Beachwood Drive, Route 33, Route 130, Route 539 and
Sharon Road). Most residents were without power for up
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-2
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Date(s) of
Event
Event
Type
FEMA
Declaration #
(If Applicable)
County
Designated?
Summary of Damages/Losses
to two days, with some areas being without power for 10
days. On Voelbel Road, a tree fell into a house. Public
assistance was requested in the amount of $259,879.92
(emergency protective services and debris removal).
9.11.4 HAZARD VULNERABILITIES AND RANKING
The hazard profiles in Section 5.0 of this plan have detailed information regarding each plan participant’s
vulnerability to the identified hazards. The risk ranking methodology is presented in Section 5.3. However, each
municipality had the opportunity to adjust the final ranking based on municipal feedback. The following
summarizes the hazard vulnerabilities and their ranking in the Township of Robbinsville. For additional
vulnerability information relevant to this jurisdiction, refer to Section 5.0.
Hazard Risk/Vulnerability Risk Ranking
The table below summarizes the hazard risk/vulnerability rankings of potential hazards for the Township of
Robbinsville.
Table 9.11-3. Hazard Risk/Vulnerability Risk Ranking
Hazard type
Dam Failure
Drought
Earthquake
Flood
Geologic
Hurricane
Nor'Easter
Severe Weather
Severe Winter
Weather
Wildfire
Disease
Outbreak
Hazardous
Materials
Probability
of
Occurrence
Occasional
Frequent
Risk Ranking
Score
(Probability x
Impact)
24
30
Hazard
Ranking b
High*
Medium
Occasional
12
Low
Frequent
27
Medium
Occasional
12
Low
Frequent
48
High
Frequent
48
High
Frequent
48
High
Frequent
51
High
Frequent
18
Medium
Damage estimate not available
Frequent
36
High
Damage estimate not available
Frequent
42
High
Estimate of Potential Dollar Losses to
Structures Vulnerable to the Hazard a, c
Damage estimate not available
Damage estimate not available
100-Year MRP: $0
500-Year MRP: $2,829,651
2,500-Year MRP: $51,979,041
1% Annual Chance: $10,469,473
Exposed to Landslide$92,587,561
Susceptible Areas:
100-year MRP: $5,923,817
500-year MRP: $55,461,460
Annualized: $357,718
Damage estimate not available
100-Year MRP: $5,923,817
500-year MRP: $55,461,460
Annualized: $357,718
1% of GBS: $48,068,116
5% of GBS: $240,340,579
Estimated Value in the
Extreme, Very High, and
High Hazard Areas:
$24,316,572
Notes: GBS = General building stock; MRP = Mean return period.
*The hazard ranking for dam failure was changed due to the location of high hazard dams in the Township.
a.
The general building stock valuation is based on the custom inventory generated for the County utilizing improved value.
b.
High = Total hazard priority risk ranking score of 31 and above
Medium = Total hazard priority risk ranking of 20-30+
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-3
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
c.
Low = Total hazard risk ranking below 20
Refer to Section 5.1 for further details on the loss methodology. Loss estimates for the severe storm and severe winter storm
hazards are structural values only and do not include the estimated value of contents. Loss estimates for the flood and earthquake
hazards represent both structure and contents. Potential flood loss estimates were generated using Hazus-MH and the 2012 FEMA
DFIRM for the 1-percent annual chance event. For the geologic and wildfire hazards, the improved value and estimated contents
of buildings located within the identified hazard zones is provided.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Summary
The following table summarizes the NFIP statistics for the Township of Robbinsville.
Table 9.11-4. NFIP Summary
Municipality
# Policies (1)
# Claims
(Losses) (1)
Total Loss
Payments (2)
# Rep.
Loss Prop.
(1)
46
5
$173,342
0
Robbinsville
Township
Source:
(1)
(2)
(3)
Notes:
# Severe
Rep. Loss
Prop.
(1)
# Policies in
1% Flood
Boundary
(3)
0
0
FEMA Region 2, 2015
Policies, claims, repetitive loss and severe repetitive loss statistics provided by FEMA Region 2, and are current as of 02/28/15.
The total number of repetitive loss properties does not include the severe repetitive loss properties. The number of claims represents
claims closed by 02/28/15.
Total building and content losses from the claims file provided by FEMA Region 2.
The policies inside and outside of the flood zones is based on the latitude and longitude provided by FEMA Region 2 in the policy file.
FEMA noted that where there is more than one entry for a property, there may be more than one policy in force or more than one
GIS possibility.
A zero percentage denotes less than 1/100th percentage and not zero damages or vulnerability as may be the case.
Number of policies and claims and claims total exclude properties located outside County boundary, based on provided latitude and
longitude.
Critical Facilities
The table below presents the number of critical facilities, by type, in the community located in the effective
FEMA flood zones (1% and 0.2% annual chance boundaries).
Table 9.11-5. Potential Flood Losses to Critical Facilities
1% Annual Chance
0.2% Annual Chance
Municipality
Fire
Fire
Robbinsville Township
1
1
Source:
Mercer County; FEMA, 2012
Other Vulnerabilities Identified by Municipality
According to the 2016 preliminary Flood Insurance Study (FIS) for Mercer County, the Township of
Robbinsville is prone to flooding after thunderstorms and longer duration rainfalls on the Assunpink Creek, New
Sharon Branch, Miry Run, Big Bear Brook and Tributary A (FEMA 2016).
The hazard profiles in Section 5.0 of this plan have detailed information regarding each plan participant’s
vulnerability to the identified hazards. Further, mitigation projects have been identified that may more
specifically detail vulnerabilities in the community. There are no additional vulnerabilities identified at this
time.
9.11.5 CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT
This section identifies the following capabilities of the local jurisdiction:
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-4
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE







Planning and regulatory capability
Administrative and technical capability
Fiscal capability
Education/Outreach and Community classification
Self-Assessment of Capability
National Flood Insurance Program
Integration of Mitigation Planning into Existing and Future Planning Mechanisms
Planning and Regulatory Capability
The table below summarizes the regulatory tools that are available to the Township of Robbinsville.
Table 9.11-6. Planning and Regulatory Tools
Tool / Program
(code, ordinance, plan)
Planning Capability
Do you have
this?
(Yes/No)
If Yes, date
of adoption
or update
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Dept. /Agency
Responsible
Code Citation and Comments
(Code Chapter, name of plan,
explanation of authority, etc.)
Master Plan
Yes, Jan 21,
2009
Local
Planning Board
Twp. Code 142-69.A., Master Plan
– 2000 and most recent
Reexamination/Amendment - 2009
Capital Improvements Plan
Yes, 2015
Local
Planning Board
Various Ordinances and Budget
Floodplain Management /
Basin Plan
Yes, 2006
Local
Planning Board
Twp. Code 142-35
Stormwater Management
Plan
Yes, 2006
Local
Planning Board
Twp Code 142-35 & 2005 Master
Plan, Mun. Stor water Management
Plan
Open Space Plan
Dec. 26, 2000
Local
Planning Board
Twp. Code 142.69.A – Master Plan
2000
Stream Corridor
Management Plan
Yes 2012
Local
Planning Board
Twp Code 142-57
Watershed Management or
Protection Plan
Yes 2006
Local
Planning Board
Twp Code 142-35 & additional
codes.
Economic Development Plan
Yes, 2000,
2012
Local
Community
Development
Master Plan 2000, Economic
Development Advisory Committee,
Monthly Meetings, Redevelopment
Plan
Comprehensive Emergency
Management Plan
Yes
Local
Twp OEM
OEM annex
Emergency Operation Plan
Yes
Local
Twp OEM
OEM annex
Post-Disaster Recovery Plan
No
Transportation Plan
Yes
Local
Twp & Board of
Education
Annex, including Traffic Division
an Board of Education mutual aid
Strategic Recovery Planning
Report
No
Other Plans:
Yes, 2012
Local
Yes
State & Local
Environmental Resource Inventory
Regulatory Capability
Building Code
Construction
Department
State Uniform Construction Code
Act (N.J.S. 52:27D-119 et seq.),
Twp Code 90
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-5
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Table 9.11-6. Planning and Regulatory Tools
Tool / Program
(code, ordinance, plan)
Zoning Ordinance
Do you have
this?
(Yes/No)
If Yes, date
of adoption
or update
Yes, 2015
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Local
Dept. /Agency
Responsible
Planning/zoning
Code Citation and Comments
(Code Chapter, name of plan,
explanation of authority, etc.)
Robbinsville Code Sect. 142
Subdivision Ordinance
Yes, 2012
Local
Planning/zoning
Robbinsville Code 142-77
NFIP Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance
Yes, 2008
Federal, State,
Local
Planning/zoning
Twp Code 126-11
NFIP: Cumulative
Substantial Damages
No
NFIP: Freeboard
Yes
State, Local
Growth Management
Ordinances
Yes, pre-2005
Local
Planning
Twp Code 142.59
Site Plan Review
Requirements
Yes, Pre2005
Local
Planning
Twp. Code 142-77
Stormwater Management
Ordinance
Yes
State, Local
Planning
Twp Code 142-35
Municipal Separate Storm
Sewer System (MS4)
Yes, 2008
Local
Police /
Engineering
Twp Code 283-17 to 22
Natural Hazard Ordinance
No
Post-Disaster Recovery
Ordinance
No
Real Estate Disclosure
Requirement
No
Other [Special Purpose
Ordinances (i.e., sensitive
areas, steep slope)]
Yes, Pre2005
One foot freeboard
Oil Tank Removals are noted with
town.
Local
Twp Code 142-35B(10), 220, 216,
122
Planning
Administrative and Technical Capability
The table below summarizes potential staff and personnel resources available to the Township of Robbinsville.
Table 9.11-7. Administrative and Technical Capabilities
Resources
Administrative Capability
Is this in
place?
(Yes or
No)
Department/ Agency/Position
Planning Board
Yes
Mayor
Mitigation Planning Committee
No
Environmental Board/Commission
Yes
Open Space Board/Committee
No
Economic Development Commission/Committee
Yes
Mayor and Council
Maintenance Programs to Reduce Risk
Yes
Public Works
Mutual Aid Agreements
Yes
Mayor and Council
Yes
Twp Engineer
Mayor
Technical/Staffing Capability
Planner(s) or Engineer(s) with knowledge of land
development and land management practices
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-6
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Table 9.11-7. Administrative and Technical Capabilities
Resources
Engineer(s) or Professional(s) trained in construction
practices related to buildings and/or infrastructure
Is this in
place?
(Yes or
No)
Department/ Agency/Position
Yes
Twp Engineer
Planners or engineers with an understanding of natural
hazards
Yes
Twp. Engineer
NFIP Floodplain Administrator
Yes
Construction Dept.
Surveyor(s)
No
Twp Engineer hires consultants when needed
Personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or Hazus-MH
applications
Yes
Twp Engineer
Scientist familiar with natural hazards
No
Emergency Manager
Yes
Emergency Mgt. Coordinator(s)
Grant Writer(s)
No
Township Administrator hires consultants when needed
Staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost analysis
Yes
BA Joy Tozzi has training in this field
Professionals trained in conducting damage assessments
Yes
Roger Forte, Construction Official
Fiscal Capability
The table below summarizes financial resources available to the Township of Robbinsville.
Table 9.11-8. Fiscal Capabilities
Community development Block Grants (CDBG, CDBG-DR)
Accessible or Eligible to Use
(Yes/No/Don’t Know)
Yes, Twp Engineer
Capital Improvements Project Funding
Yes, Twp Engineer
Authority to Levy Taxes for specific purposes
Yes, Governing Body
User fees for water, sewer, gas or electric service
Sewer only, Tax office (water, gas,
and electric are private companies)
Financial Resources
Impact Fees for homebuyers or developers of new development/ homes
Yes, Planning Board
Stormwater Utility Fee
No
Incur debt through general obligation bonds
Yes, Finance Dept.
Incur debt through special tax bonds
Yes, Finance Dept.
Incur debt through private activity bonds
Yes, Finance Dept.
Withhold public expenditures in hazard-prone areas
N/A
Other Federal or State Funding Programs
Yes, Various Depts.
Open Space Acquisition Funding Programs
Yes, Finance Dept.
Other
Yes, Various Depts.
Education/Outreach and Community Classifications
The table below summarizes education/outreach programs the community participates in and the classifications
for community program available to the Township of Robbinsville.
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-7
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Table 9.11-9. Education/Outreach and Community Classifications
Program
Community Rating System (CRS)
Do you
have/participate
in this? (Yes/No)
No
Classification
(if applicable)
Date Classified
(if applicable)
NP
NP
Building Code Effectiveness Grading
Schedule (BCEGS)
No
Public Protection (ISO Fire Protection
Classes 1 to 10)
Yes
4/4Y
07/01/2015
Storm Ready
No
NP
NP
Firewise
No
NP
NP
Disaster/Safety Programs in/for Schools
No
Organizations with Mitigation Focus
(advocacy group, non-government)
Yes
Assunpink Wildlife
Management
N/A
Public Education Program/Outreach
(through website, social media)
Yes
Website, Social Media,
Nixle
Public-Private Partnerships
No
N/A = Not applicable; NP = Not participating
The classifications listed above relate to the community’s ability to provide effective services to lessen its
vulnerability to the hazards identified. These classifications can be viewed as a gauge of the community’s
capabilities in all phases of emergency management (preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation) and are
used as an underwriting parameter for determining the costs of various forms of insurance. The CRS class applies
to flood insurance while the BCEGS and Public Protection classifications apply to standard property
insurance. CRS classifications range on a scale of 1 to 10 with class 1 being the best possible classification, and
class 10 representing no classification benefit. Firewise classifications include a higher classification when the
subject property is located beyond 1000 feet of a creditable fire hydrant and is within 5 road miles of a recognized
Fire Station.
Criteria for classification credits are outlined in the following documents:





The Community Rating System Coordinators Manual
The Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule
The ISO Mitigation online ISO’s Public Protection website at
http://www.isomitigation.com/ppc/0000/ppc0001.html
The National Weather Service Storm Ready website at
http://www.weather.gov/stormready/howto.htm
The National Firewise Communities website at http://firewise.org/
Self-Assessment of Capability
The table below provides an approximate measure of the Township of Robbinsville’s capability to work in a
hazard-mitigation capacity and/or effectively implement hazard mitigation strategies to reduce hazard
vulnerabilities.
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-8
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Table 9.11-10. Self-Assessment of Capability
Area
Planning and Regulatory Capability
Degree of Hazard Mitigation Capability
Limited
(If limited, what are
your obstacles?)
Moderate
High
X
Administrative and Technical Capability
X
Fiscal Capability
X
Community Political Capability
X
Community Resiliency Capability
X
Capability to Integrate Mitigation into
Municipal Processes and Activities.
X
National Flood Insurance Program
NFIP Floodplain Administrator (FPA)
Roger Fort, Construction Official
Flood Vulnerability Summary
The Township does not maintain lists/inventories of properties that have been damaged by floods. During the
most recent flooding events, no structures were damaged nor were any declared substantially damaged. There
is currently no interest in mitigation within the community.
Resources
The FPA is the sole person assuming the responsibilities of floodplain administration for the Township of
Robbinsville. NFIP administration services provided by the FPA include permit reviews and inspections.
Education and/or public outreach regarding flood hazards/risk or flood risk reduction is not provided to residents
of the Township.
The FPA indicated that there are currently no barriers to running an effective floodplain management program;
however, he does not feel adequately supported or trained to fulfill his responsibilities as the Township
floodplain administrator. He stated that he would consider attending continuing education and/or certification
training on floodplain management if it were offered in the County.
Compliance History
The Township is currently in good standing with the NFIP; however, it is unknown as to when the most recent
compliance audit was conducted.
Regulatory
The FPA indicated that is unknown whether the Township’s flood damage prevention ordinance exceeds the
minimum set by FEMA and the state. He did state that there are other local ordinances, plans and programs that
support floodplain management and meet NFIP requirements.
Community Rating System
The Township of Robbinsville does not participate in the CRS program; however, they have considered it and
would attend a CRS seminar if it were offered locally.
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-9
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Integration of Hazard Mitigation into Existing and Future Planning Mechanisms
For a community to succeed in reducing long-term risk, hazard mitigation must be integrated into the day-today local government operations. As part of this planning effort, each community was surveyed to obtain a better
understanding of their community’s progress in plan integration. A summary is provided below. In addition, the
community identified specific integration activities that will be incorporated into municipal procedures.
Planning
Robbinsville Township participates in planning initiatives, as opportunities arise and as funding permits. This
allows the community to develop comprehensive regional and local guidelines to ensure appropriate
development, strategizing, and enhancement of the Township to benefit residents and local businesses.
The Township’s Master Plan, adopted in 2000, has been regularly reexamined and updated since then, with the
most recent review being in 2007 and the most recent amendment in 2009. The Conservation Plan is the element
of greatest interest to the Township’s hazard mitigation concerns, as it provides recommendations on local
hazards including steep slopes, flood areas, stream corridors, and wetlands, as well as detailing local natural
resources. The Parks and Recreation Plan Element is also important for the Township to consider when
integrating its planning documents, as this section covers open space needs and greenways. The third major
section is the Utilities Plan Element, which investigates the Town’s capacity and maintenance for wastewater
collection and treatment, solid waste management, water supply, and stormwater management.
The Township also maintains a Stormwater Management Plan, written in 2005, prior to the Township’s name
change to Robbinsville. This document addresses the strategy for the community to manage stormwater impacts.
The plan complies with State regulations and is consistent with local ordinances and documents. The Township
notes eight goals in its stormwater management plan, all of which relate back to hazard mitigation. These include:









Reduce flood damage, including damage to life and property
Minimize, to the extent practical, any increase in stormwater runoff from any new development
Reduce soil erosion from any development or construction project
Assure the adequacy of existing and proposed culverts and bridges, and other in-stream structures
Maintain groundwater recharge
Prevent, to the greatest extent feasible, an increase in nonpoint pollution
Maintain the integrity of stream channels for their biological functions, as well as for drainage
Minimize pollutants in stormwater runoff from new and existing development to restore, enhance, and
maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the waters of the state, to protect public
health, to safeguard fish and aquatic life and scenic and ecological values, and to enhance the domestic,
municipal, recreational, industrial, and other uses of water
Protect public safety through the proper design and operation of stormwater basins
Robbinsville Township also developed an Environmental Resource Inventory in 2012. This document can
provide significant support to Township mitigation projects as it examines the natural resources and
vulnerabilities of the jurisdiction, including physical resources and hazards (soils and topography), surface water
resources and hazards (watersheds, waterways, wetlands, vernal pools, and floodplains), groundwater, and
biological resources (natural vegetation and animals). It also considers known environmental issues, such as
contaminated sites, groundwater contamination, flooding, radon, and underground storage tanks.
Robbinsville Township shows its dedication to integrating hazard mitigation into all aspects of Township
development through its Redevelopment Plan, adopted in 2012. This document uses smart growth and economic
considerations to create a redevelopment strategy for the community at Town Center South. Part of this strategy
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
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SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
includes consideration of the redevelopment area land uses and environmental considerations, including
floodplains and open space.
Regulatory and Enforcement (Ordinances)
The Township has multiple codes and ordinances pertaining to the mitigation of hazards. These ordinances
include the establishment of several key boards and councils, Construction Codes, Fire Prevention, Flood
Hazard Control, Solid Waste Management, Soil Removal and Importation, Sewers and Sewage Disposal, and
Land Use Regulations.
The Township Code Book is linked directly from the Township’s website and is available online at:
http://ecode360.com/WA0755?needHash=true.
Operational and Administration
The Township of Robbinsville has established an Economic Development Advisory Committee, Environmental
Commission, Planning Board, Recreation and Cultural Arts Advisory Committee, Senior Citizen Advisory
Committee, Zoning Board, and Green Team, all of which support land use decisions and public health/safety, as
well as ensure compliance with regulations, codes, and the Master Plan.
The Township is governed by a Mayor and five-member Council; they are supported by about 16 departments,
which oversee the successful operations of the community. The Public Safety Department, Public Works
Department, and Planning/Zoning Department all play pivotal roles in maintaining a prepared and resilient
jurisdiction.
Funding
The Township’s operating budget contains minimal provisions for expected repairs like snow removal and
infrastructure repair after a storm or natural disaster. When possible, the Township applies for State and Federal
grant funds. In the 2015 Budget, the Township has line items for Homeland Security Assistance, DEP
Reforestation, and FEMA Assistance to Firefighters although no funding was anticipated for any of those
programs in 2014 or 2015. The Township also had line items for Clean Communities and NJDEP Green
Communities, both of which realized funds for the Township in 2014.
In addition, Robbinsville Township also budgets for capital improvement projects, some of which relate to or
otherwise support hazard mitigation.
Education and Outreach
Township of Robbinsville staff attend trainings and classes sponsored by Mercer County Department of Public
Safety and Emergency Management, Mercer County Planning Department, or by state and federal agencies, as
able and in order to meet all professional requirements.
Robbinsville maintains a user-friendly website that is easy to navigate and offers residents links to helpful
resources, including the Township’s Nixle Alert System, stormwater information guide and what residents can
do to help, upcoming community events and notices, and the Township code. The Robbinsville OEM maintains
public outreach regarding all hazards in the community via internet, Nixle, and social media (Facebook and
Twitter). The Township has also advertised its Nixle Alert System through the local newspaper, the Robbinsville
Sun. In addition, residents may register for the Mercer County Emergency Notification System.
A screenshot of the Robbinsville stormwater webpage is provided below:
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-11
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Figure 9.11-1. Robbinsville Township Stormwater Webpage
9.11.6 MITIGATION STRATEGY AND PRIORITIZATION
This section discusses past mitigations actions and status, describes proposed hazard mitigation initiatives, and
prioritization.
Past Mitigation Initiative Status
The following table indicates progress on the community’s mitigation strategy identified in the 2011 Plan.
Actions that are carried forward as part of this plan update are included in the following subsection in its own
table with prioritization. Previous actions that are now on-going programs and capabilities are indicated as such
in the following table and may also be found under ‘Capability Assessment’ presented previously in this annex.
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-12
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Table 9.11-11. Past Mitigation Initiative Status
Description of Status
2011 Mitigation Action
Retrofit roof to meet current high
wind standards on school located
on Pond Road.
Responsible
Party
School Board
Administrator
Status
(In
progress,
No
progress,
Complete)
1. Please describe what was accomplished and
indicate % complete.
2. If there was no progress, indicate what
obstacles/delays encountered?
3. If there was progress, how is/was the action
being funded (e.g., FEMA HMGP grant, local
budget)?
Description of Next Step(s)
Next Step
(Include in
2016 HMP,
Discontinue)
1. If including action in the 2016
HMP, revise/reword to be more
specific (as appropriate).
2. If discontinue, explain why
1.100% New roof installed in 2013
Complete
Emergency backup generator for
school located on Pond Road
(shelter).
OEM
Coordinator
No Progress
Retrofit roof to meet current high
wind standards on school located
on Robbinsville‐ Endinburg Road.
School Board
Administrator
Complete
Emergency backup generator for
school located on Robbinsville‐
Endinburg Road.
OEM
Coordinator
Harden School located on Sharon
Road to FEMA 361 Standards.
School Board
Administrator
Complete
Emergency backup generator for
school located on Sharon Road.
OEM
Coordinator
No Progress
Harden utility lines by burying
along Gordon Road between
Route 539 and West Manor Way.
Department
of Public
Works
Administrator
Harden utility lines by burying
along Route 526 at West Manor
Way between I195 and NJ
Turnpike.
Department
of Public
Works
Administrator
No Progress
No Progress
No Progress
Discontinue
1. A Generac natural gas generator was
installed in 1995
2. The specific generator only powers
emergency lighting and systems.
1. 100% New roof installed to meet high
wind standards in 2005
1. The school already has a Caterpillar Diesel
300KW generator to operator lights and
system. The DPW has a portable 60KW
backup generator available when requested by
the OEM.
1. 100% The school has upgraded its structure
with a new 50,000 square ft masonry addition.
The new roof was upgraded and installed in
the old section in 2012.
1. The school has a 150kw natural gas
generator that only services the fire pump.
1. This task would not be done by the
township. This would be conducted by
JCP&L.
1. This task would not be done by the
township. This would be conducted by
PSE&G
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
Include in 2016
HMP
N/A
1. The main shelter is the High
School but Pond Road Middle
School may be a contingency. With
this being said, a new larger
generator may be a future project.
N/A
Discontinue
N/A
Discontinue
N/A
Discontinue
Include in 2016
HMP
Discontinue
Discontinue
1. The generator is not sufficient to
maintain a shelter.
A berm has been completed by
private contractors and an over 1
million square foot warehouse has
been built in the location of
concern. This project has been
discontinued.
The NJ Turnpike on/off ramp has
been redesigned and now is
accessed off I-195. The hazard has
been mitigated by the NJ Turnpike
9.11-13
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Description of Status
2011 Mitigation Action
Responsible
Party
Develop "All Hazards" public
education and outreach program
OEM
for hazard mitigation and
Coordinator
preparedness.
OEM = Office of Emergency Management.
Status
(In
progress,
No
progress,
Complete)
In Progress
1. Please describe what was accomplished and
indicate % complete.
2. If there was no progress, indicate what
obstacles/delays encountered?
3. If there was progress, how is/was the action
being funded (e.g., FEMA HMGP grant, local
budget)?
1. The Robbinsville OEM has maintained
outreach via internet, Nixel, and social media.
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
Description of Next Step(s)
Next Step
(Include in
2016 HMP,
Discontinue)
1. If including action in the 2016
HMP, revise/reword to be more
specific (as appropriate).
2. If discontinue, explain why
Authority. This project has been
discontinued and no longer a
concern.
N/A
Discontinue
9.11-14
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Completed Mitigation Initiatives not Identified in the Previous Mitigation Strategy
The Township identified the following mitigation projects/activities that have been completed, but were not
identified in the previous mitigation strategy in the 2011 Plan:

Drainage on Sharon Road – mitigated after resurfacing of roadway
Proposed Hazard Mitigation Initiatives for the Plan Update
The County hosted a mitigation action workshop in November 2015 where the following FEMA publications
were provided to all plan participants to use as a resource as part of the municipal comprehensive review of all
possible activities and mitigation measures to address their hazards: FEMA 551 ‘Selecting Appropriate
Mitigation Measures for Floodprone Structures’ (March 2007) and FEMA ‘Mitigation Ideas – A Resource for
Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards’ (January 2013). In December 2015, a second workshop was led by FEMA
Region 2 and NJOEM and was provided the results to the risk assessment to further assist with the identification
of mitigation actions. Additionally, the Township attended a mitigaiton action webinar held in April 2016.
Table 9.11-12 summarizes the comprehensive-range of specific mitigation initiatives the Township would like
to pursue in the future to reduce the effects of hazards. Some of these initiatives may be previous actions carried
forward for this plan update. These initiatives are dependent upon available funding (grants and local match
availability) and may be modified or omitted at any time based on the occurrence of new hazard events and
changes in municipal priorities. Both the four FEMA mitigation action categories and the six CRS mitigation
action categories are listed in the table below to further demonstrate the wide-range of activities and mitigation
measures selected.
As discussed in Section 6, 14 evaluation/prioritization criteria are used to complete the prioritization of
mitigation initiatives. For each new mitigation action, a numeric rank is assigned (-1, 0, or 1) for each of the 14
evaluation criteria to assist with prioritizing your actions as ‘High’, ‘Medium’, or ‘Low.’ Table 9.11-13
summarizes the evaluation of each mitigation initiative, listed by Action Number.
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-15
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Robbinsville2
Hazard(s)
Mitigated
Goals
Met
Existing
All
1, 2, 6
Both
All
All
Lead and
Support
Agencies
Estimated
Benefits
Estimated
Cost
School
Administration,
OEM,
Township
High
Medium to
High
Planning
High
Low
Timeline
Priority
CRS Category
Robbinsville1
Mitigation Initiative
Purchase and install a backup
generator at the Pond Road
Middle School and the school on
Sharon Road. Both schools have
smaller generators but are
insufficient if the schools are
used as shelters.
Utilize the Hazard Mitigation
Plan (HMP) when updating the
Comprehensive Master Plan;
consider including hazard
identification, hazard zones risk
assessment information, and
hazard mitigation goals as
identified in the HMP. Further,
the findings and
recommendation of the HMP
will be considered during any
future site plan review processes.
Applies to
New
and/or
Existing
Structures*
Mitigation
Category
Initiative
Table 9.11-12. Proposed Hazard Mitigation Initiatives
HMGP
with local
cost share
Short Term
/ DOF
High
SIP
PP
Municipal
Short
High
LPR
PR
Sources
of
Funding
Notes:
Not all acronyms and abbreviations defined below are included in the table.
*Does this mitigation initiative reduce the effects of hazards on new and/or existing buildings and/or infrastructure? Not applicable (N/A) is inserted if this does not apply.
Acronyms and Abbreviations:
CAV
Community Assistance Visit
CRS
Community Rating System
DPW
Department of Public Works
FEMA
Federal Emergency Management Agency
FPA
Floodplain Administrator
HMA
Hazard Mitigation Assistance
N/A
Not applicable
NFIP
National Flood Insurance Program
OEM
Office of Emergency Management
Potential FEMA HMA Funding Sources:
FMA
Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program
HMGP Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
PDM
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program
RFC
Repetitive Flood Claims Grant Program
(discontinued)
SRL
Severe Repetitive Loss Grant Program
(discontinued)
Costs:
Where actual project costs have been reasonably estimated:
Low
< $10,000
Medium $10,000 to $100,000
High
> $100,000
Where actual project costs cannot reasonably be established at this time:
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
Timeline:
Short
Long Term
OG
DOF
1 to 5 years
5 years or greater
On-going program
Depending on funding
Benefits:
Where possible, an estimate of project benefits (per FEMA’s benefit calculation methodology)
has been evaluated against the project costs, and is presented as:
Low=
< $10,000
Medium $10,000 to $100,000
High
> $100,000
9.11-16
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Costs:
Low
Medium
High
Possible to fund under existing budget. Project is part of, or can be part
of an existing on-going program.
Could budget for under existing work plan, but would require a
reapportionment of the budget or a budget amendment, or the cost of
the project would have to be spread over multiple years.
Would require an increase in revenue via an alternative source (i.e.,
bonds, grants, fee increases) to implement. Existing funding levels are
not adequate to cover the costs of the proposed project.
Benefits:
Where numerical project benefits cannot reasonably be established at this time:
Low
Long-term benefits of the project are difficult to quantify in the short term.
Medium Project will have a long-term impact on the reduction of risk exposure to
life and property, or project will provide an immediate reduction in the risk
exposure to property.
High
Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to
life and property.
Mitigation Category:

Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) – These actions include government authorities, policies or codes that influence the way land and buildings are being developed and built.

Structure and Infrastructure Project (SIP)- These actions involve modifying existing structures and infrastructure to protect them from a hazard or remove them from a hazard area. This
could apply to public or private structures as well as critical facilities and infrastructure. This type of action also involves projects to construct manmade structures to reduce the impact
of hazards.

Natural Systems Protection (NSP) – These are actions that minimize damage and losses, and also preserve or restore the functions of natural systems.

Education and Awareness Programs (EAP) – These are actions to inform and educate citizens, elected officials, and property owners about hazards and potential ways to mitigate them.
These actions may also include participation in national programs, such as StormReady and Firewise Communities
CRS Category:

Preventative Measures (PR) - Government, administrative or regulatory actions, or processes that influence the way land and buildings are developed and built. Examples include
planning and zoning, floodplain local laws, capital improvement programs, open space preservation, and storm water management regulations.

Property Protection (PP) - These actions include public activities to reduce hazard losses or actions that involve (1) modification of existing buildings or structures to protect them from
a hazard or (2) removal of the structures from the hazard area. Examples include acquisition, elevation, relocation, structural retrofits, storm shutters, and shatter-resistant glass.

Public Information (PI) - Actions to inform and educate citizens, elected officials, and property owners about hazards and potential ways to mitigate them. Such actions include
outreach projects, real estate disclosure, hazard information centers, and educational programs for school-age children and adults.

Natural Resource Protection (NR) - Actions that minimize hazard loss and also preserve or restore the functions of natural systems. These actions include sediment and erosion control,
stream corridor restoration, watershed management, forest and vegetation management, and wetland restoration and preservation.

Structural Flood Control Projects (SP) - Actions that involve the construction of structures to reduce the impact of a hazard. Such structures include dams, setback levees, floodwalls,
retaining walls, and safe rooms.

Emergency Services (ES) - Actions that protect people and property during and immediately following a disaster or hazard event. Services include warning systems, emergency response
services, and the protection of essential facilities
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-17
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
Social
Administrative
Multi-Hazard
Timeline
Agency Champion
Other Community
Objectives
Total
Mitigation Action/Initiative
Purchase and install a backup
generator at the Pond Road
Middle School and the school
Robbinsvilleon Sharon Road. Both schools
1
1
1
1
1
0
-1
1
have smaller generators but are
insufficient if the schools are
used as shelters.
Utilize the Hazard Mitigation
Plan (HMP) when updating the
Comprehensive Master Plan;
consider including hazard
identification, hazard zones risk
assessment information, and
Robbinsvillehazard mitigation goals as
0
0
1
1
1
1
1
2
identified in the HMP. Further,
the findings and
recommendation of the HMP
will be considered during any
future site plan review
processes.
Note: Refer to Section 6 which contains the guidance on conducting the prioritization of mitigation actions.
Environmental
Fiscal
Legal
Political
Technical
Cost-Effectiveness
Property
Protection
Mitigation
Action /
Project
Number
Life Safety
Table 9.11-13. Summary of Prioritization of Actions
High /
Medium
/ Low
0
1
1
1
0
1
0
8
High
0
1
1
1
1
1
0
10
High
9.11-18
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
9.11.7 FUTURE NEEDS TO BETTER UNDERSTAND RISK/VULNERABILITY
None at this time.
9.11.8 HAZARD AREA EXTENT AND LOCATION
Hazard area extent and location maps have been generated for the Township of Robbinsville that illustrate the
probable areas impacted within the municipality. These maps are based on the best available data at the time of
the preparation of this plan, and are considered to be adequate for planning purposes. Maps have only been
generated for those hazards that can be clearly identified using mapping techniques and technologies, and for
which the Township of Robbinsville has significant exposure. Figure 9.11-2 and Figure 9.11-3 illustrate the
hazard area extent for the municipality.
9.11.9 ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
None at this time.
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-19
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Figure 9.11-2. Township of Robbinsville Hazard Area Extent and Location Map 1
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-20
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Figure 9.11-3. Township of Robbinsville Hazard Area Extent and Location Map 2
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-21
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Action Number:
Mitigation Action/Initiative:
Robbinsville-1
Backup generator for municipal schools
Assessing the Risk
Hazard(s) addressed:
All hazards that lead to power outages
Specific problem being
mitigated:
Insufficient-sized generators at the schools which are used as shelters in the
Township
Evaluation of Potential Actions/Projects
Actions/Projects Considered
(name of project and reason
for not selecting):
1.
Purchase and install a backup generator at the Pond Road Middle School
and the school on Sharon Road.
2.
Do nothing – current problem continues
3.
No other feasible options were identified
Action/Project Intended for Implementation
Description of Selected
Action/Project
Purchase and install a backup generator at the Pond Road Middle School and the
school on Sharon Road. Both schools have smaller generators but are
insufficient if the schools are used as shelters.
Action/Project Category
SIP
Goals/Objectives Met
1, 2, 6
Applies to existing and/or new
development; or not applicable
Existing
Benefits (losses avoided)
High
Estimated Cost
Medium to High
Priority*
High
Plan for Implementation
Responsible/Lead
Agency/Department
School Administration, OEM, Township
Local Planning Mechanism
Emergency Management
Potential Funding Sources
HMGP with local cost share
Timeline for Completion
Short Term / DOF
Reporting on Progress
Date of Status Report/
Report of Progress
Date:
Progress on Action/Project:
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-22
SECTION 9.11: TOWNSHIP OF ROBBINSVILLE
Action Number:
Mitigation Action/Initiative:
Robbinsville-1
Backup generator for municipal schools
Numeric
Rank
(-1, 0, 1)
Provide brief rationale for numeric rank when appropriate
Life Safety
1
Provide a shelter for residents during times of need
Property Protection
1
Cost-Effectiveness
1
Technical
1
Political
1
Legal
0
Fiscal
-1
Environmental
0
Social
1
Administrative
1
Multi-Hazard
1
Timeline
0
Local Champion
1
Other Community
Objectives
0
Total
8
Criteria
Priority
(High/Med/Low)
Need to seek grant funding
All hazards that lead to power outages
High
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Mercer County, New Jersey
June 2016
9.11-23