Governor Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order aimed at expediting the rebuilding process in Los Angeles after severe fires affected the area in January. The order suspends certain permitting and review requirements, allowing for faster restoration of essential services in Altadena, Malibu, and Pacific Palisades.
The executive order is intended to quicken the pace of repairing and replacing critical infrastructure, such as electric, gas, water, sewer, and telecommunication systems. One key element of this plan is the “undergrounding” of utility equipment, which is seen as a strategy to not only facilitate recovery but also to enhance resilience against future fires.
Governor Newsom emphasized, “We are determined to rebuild Altadena, Malibu, and Pacific Palisades stronger and more resilient than before. Speeding up the pace that we rebuild our utility systems will help get survivors back home faster and prevent future fires.”
Prior to this, Governor Newsom urged utility companies operating in the affected regions to initiate safe rebuilding processes. He has requested detailed plans from Southern California Edison and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power by the end of March, focusing particularly on the undergrounding of electric distribution infrastructure.
The order also extends the suspension of the California Coastal Act’s permitting requirements, an initiative previously enacted by the governor to facilitate reconstruction efforts. The California Coastal Commission has been directed not to undertake any actions that would conflict with these executive orders, thus removing obstacles that could hinder rapid rebuilding and upgrading of utility services.
Governor Newsom’s administration has prioritized increasing the state’s resilience against wildfires through measures such as strengthening the electrical grid and investment in fire mitigation strategies. He asserts that electric utilities are crucial participants in these efforts to combat heightened wildfire risks exacerbated by climate change.
Additional information, including updates on Los Angeles’ recovery efforts and air quality, can be accessed at CA.gov/LAfires.
