Though it's been expedited, the cumbersome environmental review process for a plan to raise the deck of the Bayonne Bridge has New York area leaders fuming over impediments to economic development. Others contend the review is being rushed.
"The approval process for the Bayonne Bridge reconstruction has become a case study, critics say, in the bureaucratic roadblocks imposed by decades-old federal environmental regulations," reports Sam Roberts. Even though review of the 5,000 page environmental assessment has been expedited by a presidential directive, critics such as Patrick J. Foye, the executive director of the Port Authority, have assailed the cumbersome and lengthy process (which will take up nearly half of the project's full timeline).
“The environmental process for public infrastructure is too long, costly and uncertain,” Foye said. “Public infrastructure ought to be treated differently, especially replacement of public infrastructure. And there ought to be someone in the process on the federal side who is looking at the impact of economic development and job retention.”
“In my 40 years, this is the fastest I’ve ever seen an environmental assessment get done,” project manager Joann Papageorgis said. “We’re being criticized for rushing it.”
FULL STORY: High Above the Water, but Awash in Red Tape
The Cost of Raising the Bayonne Bridge Also Rises
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey tried to raise the Bayonne Bridge by 64 feet to make room for more ships below. The price for the project has risen along with the bridge.
First Cash Announced to Jumpstart Amtrak Gateway Project
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Amtrak Gateway Planning Is Coming Together
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Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
Placekeeping: Setting a New Precedent for City Planners
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San Diego Swaps Parking Lane for Kid-Friendly Mini Park
The block-long greenway will feature interactive play equipment and landscaping.
Tracking the Invisible: Methane Leaks From LA’s Neighborhood Oil Sites
Environmental advocates are using infrared technology to monitor and document methane leaks from neighborhood oil sites, filling regulatory gaps and pushing for stronger protections to safeguard community health and the climate.
Montana Bill Promotes Parking Reform
A bill before the Montana state senate would bar cities from requiring more than one parking spot per new housing unit.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
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