Poll Finds New Jersey Voters Support Building Code Changes in Wake of Massive Fire

Build with Strength, a coalition led by the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, released a new poll that found registered New Jersey voters strongly support the state making changes to construction codes in the wake of the January 2015 Edgewater fire. According to the poll, 95 percent support changes to construction codes.

"The Edgewater fire should serve as a catalyst for change to strengthen our building codes and fire prevention efforts. We can’t wait for another tragedy where lives may be lost," said Assemblyman John Wisniewski, chairman of the New Jersey Fire Safety Commission.

According to the poll, New Jersey voters overwhelmingly support legislative changes to make buildings in the state more resistant to fires and natural disasters. This includes support for a requirement for concrete and steel frames for buildings over three stories high, as well as proposed legislation that would place limits on construction with wood. In addition to the poll, a new video and infographic examining the Edgewater fire and the reaction from the community was released earlier this month.