This report presents an in-depth study of buyouts in the New York metropolitan region following Hurricanes Irene and Sandy as a tool for adaptation against flooding. It provides an overview of flooding risk, a detailed summation of buyout programs in and outside of the region, quantitative analyses that organize the region into place types, and five case studies of the fiscal impact of buyouts on selected communities.

The research draws from original analysis; interviews with buyout program staff, planners, conservation experts, and other stakeholders; and a round table workshop hosted by the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy and Regional Plan Association in December 2014. That meeting galvanized recommendations that address time frame, administration, funding, municipal participation, and resident concerns. The report offers a set of policy recommendations to improve the effectiveness of and participation in buyout programs. The lessons learned from analyzing buyout programs in New York will provide insight and guidance for the whole nation.