Sen. Ted Erickson (R-Delaware) this week announced plans to convene a work group to review the permitting process of the Department of Environmental Protection for infrastructure projects.

The group will include officials from DEP, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and other experts involved in the permitting process for projects that require DEP approval.

"The group will make recommendations as to how improvements can be made to most efficiently address environmental concerns, while providing a systematic and streamlined process for infrastructure development and repair projects," said Sen. Erickson. "This is especially important in light of the recent voter approval of the $400 million bond referendum for the improvement of drinking water and wastewater treatment systems in the Commonwealth. This will enable us to get projects started in a timely fashion and create jobs in this economy."

In addition to drinking water and wastewater projects, Sen. Erickson believes that an efficient permitting process will be vital for the advancement of other projects for which extensive federal funding is anticipated, such as bridge and road repair.

Sen. Erickson serves as Republican Vice-Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.

NewsClip: Sen. Erickson's Group To Eye DEP Permitting

12/12/2008