Bill > HB2450

This bill establishes the "Subterranean Transportation Infrastructure Coordination Act" to streamline the development of underground transportation systems, recognizing that surface space is limited and population growth demands more transportation capacity. It creates a Governor's Infrastructure Coordination Council to oversee and coordinate state agency reviews for these projects, aiming for predictable approval processes and clear safety standards. The Act distinguishes between surface construction, which remains under local government jurisdiction with specific limitations to prevent obstruction of projects, and subsurface construction, which falls under exclusive state jurisdiction, primarily managed by the State Fire Marshal for permitting and safety. It also establishes a Subterranean Transportation Infrastructure Coordination Authority to resolve disputes between project operators, local governments, and utilities, and to hear appeals. The bill aims to attract private investment by providing regulatory certainty and efficient pathways for projects like underground tunnels for passengers or goods, while also addressing utility coordination and ensuring that local governments cannot unduly hinder these subterranean projects.