Archive for January 2017
NYSDEC Proposes First Major Amendments to State Environmental Quality Review Act Regulations in Over Twenty Years
By: Jonathan Kalmuss-Katz On January 23, 2017, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (“NYSDEC”) proposed the most significant changes to its regulations implementing the State Environmental Quality Review Act (“SEQRA”) in more than twenty years. The proposal aims to streamline the environmental impact review process in New York, particularly for projects that advance…
Read MoreAlbany Supreme Court Dismisses Challenge to State Permit for Pier 55 in Hudson River Park
In a decision dated January 20, 2017, Hon. Lisa M. Fisher of the New York Supreme Court, Albany County, dismissed in its entirety litigation challenging the legality of the permit that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (“DEC”) issued for the Pier 55 project in Hudson River Park. The project, currently in construction,…
Read MoreDaniel Riesel and Pamela Esterman to Chair Upcoming Environmental Law Conference
By: Heewon Kim On February 9-10, 2017, SPR principals Daniel Riesel and Pamela Esterman will co-chair the 47th annual ALI CLE Environmental Law Course in Washington, DC. The course, which is co-sponsored by ALI CLE and the Environmental Law Institute, will feature advanced-level presentations by senior public officials, distinguished law professors, seasoned private practitioners, and…
Read MoreNew York State, New York City and Federal Authorities Highlight Living Shorelines for Ecological Preservation and Restoration
Also by: Heewon Kim New York State: Proposed Guidance Emphasizes Development of Living Shorelines On December 28, 2016, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (“DEC”) released a draft guidance document highlighting the use of natural and nature-based features in shoreline stabilization, also known as “living shorelines.” The guidance promotes a consistent approach to…
Read MoreNew York Offshore Wind Activities Update – Auction Completed, Lawsuit Proceeds, Cuomo Announces Goals
By: Ed Roggenkamp BOEM Auctions Offshore Wind Lease for New York Wind Energy Area On December 15 and 16, 2016, the United States Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (“BOEM”) conducted a competitive auction for a lease allowing development of an offshore wind farm in an 79,350-acre area south of Long Island. The New York Wind…
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