A massive construction project aims at keeping Hoboken safe as sea levels rise amid the effects of climate change.

The federal government's Rebuild by Design program is set to fund a $230 million flood resiliency project. It will protect the Hoboken waterfront and parts of Weehawken and Jersey City.

Flood structures like sea walls will be combined with storm water drainage to handle anything from a flash flood to another hurricane.

Two parks that are part of the plan will help drain water via the natural grass and earth as opposed to allowing water to move on surfaces like pavement. The goal is that all of the flood mediation devices will be integrating it into the landscape.

An ambitious idea to create an underground chamber to hold flood water may happen in 15 to 20 years.

There was some controversy over where the project would be, especially with a major development planned for the riverfront.

The state said aligning the project on the south end of Hoboken is a "middle ground." It's geared to protect the rail yard and train station while limiting the impact to NJ Transit.

It will also reduce what can be seen from Observer Highway and create additional redevelopment possibilities.