HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has launched the Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED) program, aimed at improving permitting efficiency and supporting economic growth.
Announced June 30 by Secretary Jessica Shirley and a bipartisan group of lawmakers, SPEED allows applicants to pay for a DEP-approved third-party inspector to review their permit applications. DEP staff will then make the final decision or identify any additional requirements.
The program currently applies to earth disturbance permits, with plans to expand to air quality, oil and gas, and dam-related permits.
Chamber members can hear more about the initiative at the upcoming August Policy Pulse Speaker Series, where Secretary Shirley will discuss DEP’s permitting modernization efforts.
The Policy Pulse series offers a monthly platform for government and advocacy leaders to share updates on key policy issues impacting the regional business community.
About the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC
For 140 years, the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC has served as the region’s catalyst for economic prosperity. The organization combines business, community, and economic development services to enhance the region’s vitality and livability. The Chamber is a five-star accredited chamber through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce—a distinction held by fewer than 1 percent of chambers nationwide. CREDC is the Certified Economic Development Organization for Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties.
The Chamber & CREDC celebrates a storied history of being the catalyst that moves the city forward. The Chamber answered the call from Mira Lloyd Dock to lead the City Beautiful movement in 1900. Twenty years later, the Chamber spearheaded the effort to bring reliable, modern electricity to the city. Over the past two decades, CREDC has driven $150 million in economic impact through close to 100 projects in the city, catalyzing the redevelopment of residential, commercial, and industrial sites.
