APTA, Coalition Urge Comprehensive Permitting Reform
9/3/2025
APTA and a coalition of more than 500 partners wrote to Congress, Sept. 2, calling for comprehensive permitting reform. Modernizing permitting systems will empower communities and businesses to invest in infrastructure that grows the economy, creates good-paying jobs, and improves quality of life.
The coalition is united around four key principles:
- Predictability: Clear timelines and scope for project reviews.
- Efficiency: Improved interagency coordination to optimize resources.
- Transparency: Accessible visibility into project milestones and schedules.
- Stakeholder Input: Consistent opportunities for input from all relevant parties.
“Across the country, communities and businesses are ready to invest in projects that will strengthen our economy and improve quality of life—from expanding broadband access and upgrading transportation networks, to building innovative energy facilities that will provide new sources of power to meet growing demand, and modernizing drinking water systems,” stated the letter. “But too often, outdated and inefficient permitting processes stand in the way, delaying these investments and driving up costs.
“Families and businesses are left waiting for safer roads, better public transit, improved drinking water access, more affordable energy, and access to high-speed internet—essentials that drive economic growth, improve public health, and enhance quality of life. Improving permitting processes will empower businesses and communities to invest in and deliver the infrastructure needed to address today’s challenges.
“A modernized permitting system will help us build smarter, faster, and more sustainably—we just need a system that keeps pace with our ambition. We urge Congress to work across the aisle to enact durable legislation this fall that reflects the urgency and opportunity before us. Our communities are ready to build.”