California Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order Thursday to accelerate rebuilding fire-ravaged communities in Los Angeles County, further suspending permitting and environmental review requirements to speed up infrastructure repairs.
The order targets recovery efforts in Altadena, Malibu, and Pacific Palisades, areas devastated by wildfires in January. It expedites repairing and replacing electric, gas, water, sewer, and telecommunication infrastructure, including underground utility equipment, to help prevent future fires.
“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,” Newsom said in a statement.
Newsom previously signed an executive order permitting requirements under the California Coastal Act to be suspended for rebuilding efforts and directing the Coastal Commission not to issue guidance or take any action that interferes or conflicts with the Governor’s executive orders.
