Feds Announce New Post-Sandy Building Standards

Federal officials have announced new standards for businesses and homeowners rebuilding after Superstorm Sandy.

Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan and Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood spoke Thursday in front of an electrical substation in Kearny that was shut down by flooding last fall.

They announced that homeowners and businesses rebuilding with Sandy recovery dollars must either elevate their structure one foot above existing FEMA standards or otherwise flood-proof appliances such as boilers.

Donovan heads a Sandy recovery task force created by President Barack Obama.

Flooding at the substation significantly affected Amtrak's Northeast Corridor line, which is also used by New Jersey Transit. Service into Manhattan was limited for weeks after the storm.

The rebuilding of the substation to the new specifications is expected to cost about $25 million.

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