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Coastal Barrier Act of 1982 Shows Significant Flood Reduction Benefits

The act's restrictions on development have proven effective in reducing flood risks and preserving coastal ecosystems. Neighbors also see benefits, with higher property values and reduced flood damages.

In this image I can see number of boats and few flags. I can also see water and in the background I...
In this image I can see number of boats and few flags. I can also see water and in the background I can see few buildings.

Coastal Barrier Act of 1982 Shows Significant Flood Reduction Benefits

The Coastal Barrier Resources Act of 1982 has shown significant benefits, according to a new study. The policy, which restricts development in certain coastal areas, has led to an estimated 7% reduction in flood insurance claims, saving around $112 million annually. It has also decreased development density within these areas by about 85%.

Researchers at your institute have been studying the act's impact on community development outside the designated Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS) areas. They used a novel method to select comparison areas and analyzed land use patterns, development trends, property values, flooding damages, local tax revenues, and demographic change.

The study found that while the act has displaced some development to neighboring areas, it provides natural amenities and flood protection, leading to higher property values and reduced flood damages in these communities. The policy removes federal incentives and financial assistance for development within CBRS areas, aiming to preserve ecosystem services and reduce federal disaster expenditures.

A new working paper, using spatial data science tools, examines the long-term outcomes of applying CBRS designations to coastal land. The study highlights the act's success in reducing flood insurance claims and development density, while providing benefits to neighboring communities. Despite some displacement of development, the policy's overall impact on coastal protection and community development is positive.

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