image source
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has been instrumental in almost single-handedly thwarting economic development in North East. As noted here before, the DEP has raised objections to work that needs to be done at the North East Marina, to development of the truck stop at the Route 20 and I90 interchange and added almost $500,000 in cost to the school football field in unnecessary drainage requirements.
Over regulated and under developed
As shown in the graphic above, PA is one of the most highly regulated states in the country and trying to work with the various agencies has proven to be extremely difficult and frustrating. Unelected bureaucrats in the DEP can stand in the way of multiple efforts currently under way in our community to move various projects ahead and justify their decisions with the all too common excuse of “I’m just doing my job.” If their job is to block all development, then that’s true.
Why does North East continue to lose these battles?
Over two years ago I asked, Is the PA government targeting the marina for closure? I’m asking that question again, because with all of the efforts so far undertaken, the marina remains non-functional with the boat ramp closed and no docks in the water. The Fish and Boat Commission also plays a part and continues to raise multiple objections and requirements before any action can take place. Meanwhile, we’re halfway through June.
Who benefits?
If the truck stop is not able to be sold and developed and the marina remains closed to boats, who benefits? If the marina closes, it still exists unless someone pays millions of dollars to remove it. Who would do that? Would sand still need to be moved? Who would do that? Is there a deep pocketed someone waiting in the wings to swoop in and buy the property and develop it with high dollar lots and homes and maybe a private marina? And how about the truck stop? If development is stopped, has the DEP improved the environment? Any problems they’re concerned about, remain. Again, who benefits?
These are the puzzling questions hovering over North East and our community needs answers. Your thoughts?
Discover more from North East PA Online
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Charles Vilcesk says
Why is there one set rules for Walnut Creek one set rules for North East .? Walnut didn’t truck sand .. have sand in the parking lot ? same state ., same Fish Commission.. same DEP
Richard Locke says
There is more individuals with money and political power on the west side of Erie.
Richard Locke says
If nothing more the North East marina is a safe harbor between Erie and Barcelona.
Beans says
Two years ago I would have called you a conspiracy theorist. No longer. Thank you for keeping us informed. Where is our government that should be working for the people?