Gov. Newsom unveils sweeping plan to speed up California infrastructure projects

A worker walks through the Claude “Bud” Lewis Desalination Plant in Carlsbad. Newsom’s proposal aims to shorten the contracting process for bridge and water projects, limit timelines for environmental litigation and simplify permitting for complicated developments in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and elsewhere. “We look forward to working with our colleagues in the Assembly and administration to ensure we can do so responsibly, and in line with California’s commitment to high road jobs and environmental protection.” At the center of Newsom’s plan is the California Environmental Quality Act — a polarizing 1970 law credited for helping preserve the state’s natural beauty but often criticized for miring needed housing, energy and transportation projects in litigation. Barbara Barrigan-Parrilla, executive director of advocacy group Restore the Delta, which is opposed to the tunnel, said that Newsom’s plan “guts” environmental review for the project. “What he’s promoting would have devastating impact on our progress.” Newsom was accompanied Friday by former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who the governor had appointed as state infrastructure czar last year.