At BSC Group, we’re dedicated to shaping a smarter, more efficient permitting process for Massachusetts—one that balances environmental protection with responsible development.
BSC continues to make significant progress in assisting MassDEP with the Feasibility of Permit Streamlining and Recommendations for New Multi-Agency Review and Approval project. Massachusetts is home to a rich ecological and historical landscape, making environmental permitting a critical step in safeguarding wetlands, coastal areas, sensitive resource areas, and cultural heritage sites. However, with increasing challenges like climate resilience, population growth, and evolving technology, a streamlined permitting process is essential to:
- Protect the state’s natural and historical resources
- Improve efficiency for wetland and water resources permits
- Reduce delays and inconsistencies in multi-agency approvals
- Facilitate environmentally beneficial projects
By creating a clear, transparent, and effective pathway for permitting, agencies can focus their resources where they matter most—on high-risk applications—while ensuring that vital projects move forward without unnecessary roadblocks.
BSC’s Role in Driving Progress
Led by Project Manager Melissa Kaplan, BSC’s team has been guiding internal and external stakeholder meetings to identify key challenges within the current permitting process. Through case studies and collaborative discussions, we have pinpointed areas where inconsistencies and delays occur and are now working toward targeted solutions.
Our next steps include:
- Defining streamlined pathways for different project types
- Addressing permitting bottlenecks and inefficiencies
- Analyzing regulations and successful permitting models from other states
- Exploring changes to regulatory language to enhance clarity and efficiency
- Investigating digital solutions to improve the permit submission process
Building a More Effective Permitting System
BSC is committed to developing innovative strategies that support both environmental sustainability and regulatory efficiency. By refining the permitting framework, embracing technological improvements, and fostering collaboration between agencies, Massachusetts can continue leading the way in climate resilience, environmental protection, and historical preservation while allowing projects to proceed to construction and operation.
We commend MassDEP for its proactive approach in improving permitting pathways, and we’re proud to play a role in this transformative effort.
What’s Next?
We’re actively developing new pathways, regulatory improvements, and technological advancements to enhance permitting clarity and efficiency. Stay tuned as we continue to lead the way in making Massachusetts’ permitting system more effective and sustainable.