Modifies lists of projects eligible to receive loans for environmental infrastructure projects from NJ Infrastructure Bank for FY2022.
Impact
The bill's amendments allow for a refined allocation of limited resources toward projects deemed most critical. By allowing the NJIB to prioritize and modify project eligibility lists, it can effectively address immediate infrastructure issues related to clean water projects after the severe impacts of events like Hurricane Sandy. However, there are concerns regarding the reduction in the total funds available for projects, which may limit the scope of improvements and investments that can be made in the state's environmental infrastructure.
Summary
Assembly Bill A183 proposes modifications to the list of projects eligible for loans from the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank (NJIB) for the fiscal year 2022. Specifically, the bill reduces the available funding from $1.979 billion to $1.62 billion and revises the catalog of eligible environmental infrastructure projects. This decision underscores a shift in focus for fiscal management while allowing the NJIB to still address critical infrastructure needs across various municipalities and public utilities.
Contention
Some stakeholders may oppose the reduction in total funding as it poses potential challenges for various local projects that rely on financial assistance from the NJIB. Particularly, smaller communities or those unprepared to address the pressing costs associated with environmental infrastructure improvements might find such limitations detrimental. The potential for project cancellations could exacerbate existing infrastructure challenges, especially in areas with aging or inadequate water systems.
Amends lists of environmental infrastructure projects approved for long-term funding by DEP; makes various changes to FY2023 environmental infrastructure funding program.