Scenic Hudson and Pattern for Progress Release Draft Recommendations on State Environmental Quality Review Act

The recently released draft recommendations for improving implementation of the State Environmental Quality Review process can be downloaded (pdf, 161k) for public input.Several months ago NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Pete Grannis kicked off an initiative to streamline the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) process without lessening its environmental protections. As a first step, the commissioner spearheaded an effort to gain recommendations from economic and development experts. Scenic Hudson President Ned Sullivan and Pattern for Progress President Jonathan Drapkin served as co-chairs for preparing the recommendations, with DEC Region 3 Director Willie Janeway serving as point person for Commissioner Grannis. In addition, Scenic Hudson Assistant Director of Land Use Advocacy Jeff Anzevino served on one of the project's committees.

On Feb. 8, the group released draft recommendations (pdf, 161k). This draft has been issued for public review and comment with a deadline of Wednesday, March 17. Members of the public are invited to review the draft and e-mail input to R3SEQRWorkgroup@gw.dec.state.ny.us.

Public meetings will provide opportunities for comment as well. The meetings will be on Wednesday, Feb. 17, from 3-5 p.m. and again at 7 p.m. at the DEC's regional offices at 21 S. Putt Corners Rd., New Paltz.