CDM Smith Newsletter Feed

Washington Briefing

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:52:48 -0600

Listed below are highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of April 30, 2012. Due to the magnitude of legislative business considered by Congress, it is not a comprehensive accounting.

Overview

The next budget year starts October 1, 2012. Unfortunately, it is unlikely that Congress will finalize a Fiscal Year 2013 spending package that will enable Federal agencies to plan long-term projects. Federal agencies could spend the first quarter of the upcoming fiscal year operating under a temporary budget, with very little certainty about which programs Congress will fund in a final budget.

Last week, Congress set spending limits for the Fiscal Year 2013 budget, and appointed conferees to negotiate a final transportation bill. Listed below is a summary of the current budget process, funding levels, and key controversies. Please also reference last week’s briefing for more information about the budget.

ENERGY-WATER SPENDING BILL

Key agencies funded: Department of Energy, Army Corps, Interior (Bureau of Reclamation)

FY 2012 Enacted Budget

FY 2013
President's Proposal

FY 2013
House Proposal

FY 2013
Senate Proposal

$32 billion, $297 million increase

$31.9 billion discretionary

($27.2 billion to Energy, $4.7 billion to Corps)

$32.1 billion

-$26.1 to Energy, Cuts $428 million from Energy Efficiency program

-$4.8 billion to Army Corps

-Interior – Bureau of Rec: $967 million

Passed committee, moves to floor

$33.4 billion

-$27.1 billion to Energy, Retains the $2 billion Energy Efficiency program

-$5 billion to Army Corps

-$1 billion to Bureau of Rec.

Passed Senate committee

Controversial Funding Issues to Monitor:

Energy Budget

Yucca Mountain funding termination.
Solyndra controversy – status of the loan guarantee program and whether Congress will fund the program.
Nuclear waste clean up programs.
Energy efficiency program funding (House cuts it, Senate increases it) versus traditional energy sources such as coal, natural gas and nuclear funding.
Maintain funding of the Environmental Management program at status quo or slight increase.
New funding source for Inland Waterways Trust Fund.
Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund issues – ensuring the annual appropriations amount meets the projections of the trust fund.

HOMELAND SECURITY

Key funding agencies: FEMA, Coast Guard, Transportation Security, Customs and Border Control

FY 2012 Enacted Budget	FY 2013 President's Proposal	FY 2013 House Proposal	FY 2013 Senate Proposal
$39.6 billion (1% reduction)	$39.5 billion base ($45 billion, includes disaster relief and Overseas Contingency Operations)	$39.1 billion without disaster relief	$39.5 billion base ($45.2 billion with disaster and contingency)

Controversial Funding Issues:

Disaster relief funding (House classifies it as emergency funding and not subject to the budget process).
Reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (expires May 2012).
Funding to support the flood map program (annual cuts to programs compromise flood planning).

FOREIGN OPERATIONS

Key agencies funded: Department of State, USAID

FY 2012 Enacted Budget

FY 2013
President's Proposal

FY 2013
House Proposal

FY 2013
Senate Proposal

$53.3 billion

$54.7 billion, 3% increase. Proposal includes $770 million aid program (few facts provided)

$48.4 billion

Raised concerns about disaster and development aid

$53 billion

Expressed concerns about the $770 million "mystery" aid program in development assistance budget

Controversial Funding Issues:

Funding international assistance when domestic programs need support.
Aid to the Middle East and North Africa.
Aid to Palestinian governments.
The $770 million Middle East Fund proposal in the President’s budget (with little clarification).

INTERIOR-ENVIRONMENT

Key agencies funded: EPA, Interior (non-water)

FY 2012 Enacted Budget

FY 2013
President's Proposal

FY 2013
House Proposal

FY 2013
Senate Proposal

$29.2 billion, EPA cut 3%

$8.3 billion - EPA

$28 billion

$29.7 billion

Status: Passed Senate Subcommittee

Controversial Funding Issues

EPA’s regulatory authority under the Clean Water Act.
Offshore drilling and expediting permits.
EPA’s study on fracking and impact on future drilling.
Interior’s new offshore drilling regulatory departments and role in advancing drilling versus limiting drilling.
Future of water infrastructure funding (Clean and Drinking water funds reduced).
Superfund funding.
STAG funding.

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION

Key agencies funded: Defense Department's Military Construction Program and the Department of Veterans Affairs

FY 2012
Enacted Budget

FY 2013
President's Proposal

FY 2013
House Proposal

FY 2013
Senate Proposal

$71.7 billion, $1.4 billion below FY 2011

$72.4 billion ($11.2 billion for military construction)

$71.7 billion

$72.4 billion

Controversial Issue:

Base-realignment and closure rounds in 2013 and 2015. Members from impacted states are concerned about losing bases in their districts and the jobs they create.

TRANSPORTATION-HUD

Key agencies funded: Department of Transportation and HUD

FY 2012
Enacted Budget

FY 2013
President's Proposal

FY 2013
House Proposal

FY 2013
Senate Proposal

$109 billion

(Transportation: $71.6 billion, and increase, HUD: $37.4 billion, a decrease)

$74 billion (discretionary funding)

Possible $50 billion/year in reauthorization proposal

$4 billion cut to both agencies, few details to date

Possible cuts to transit, policy programs, High Speed Rail

No cuts or funding increases from FY 2012 levels to Transportation

HUD: Would increase Community Block program

Controversial Funding Issues:

Transit: Changing the funding stream.
NextGen Satellite Navigation Upgrade: $21 million increase, including a FAA loan guarantee program to help airlines fund the new technology.
Truck Weights: Allows local increases in truck weights on roads.
Rail incentives: $100 million for high performance rail projects, including upgrading tracks to accommodate high-speed passenger trains.
Highway Trust Fund: No discussion yet, but anticipate major battles since it depletes in 2013.
Funding research-related programs such as Transportation Research Board and Metropolitan Planning Organizations.
Keystone XL Permit – expediting the permit process to expand drilling.
Private Activity Bonds – increase the volume cap to support water infrastructure projects in localities.
RESTORE Act – Ensuring the amendment remains intact during conference.

Transportation Conferees Appointed (First meeting scheduled for May 8)

Senate Members

Barbara Boxer (D-CA)
Max Baucus (D-MT)
Dick Durbin (D-IL)
Tim Johnson (D-SD)
Bill Nelson (D-FL)
Charles Schumer (D-NY)
Robert Menendez (D-NJ)
James Inhofe (R-Ok)
David Vitter (R-LA)
Orrin Hatch (R-UT)
Richard Shelby (R-AL)
Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX)
Jay Rockefeller (D-WV)
John Hoeven (R-ND)

House Members

John Mica (FL)
Don Young (AK)
John Duncan (TN)
Bill Shuster (PA)
Shelley Moore Capito (WV)
Rick Crawford (AR)
Jaime Herrerra Beutler (WA)
Larry Buschon (IN)
Richard Hanna (NY)
Steve Southerland (FL)
James Lankford (OK)
Reid Ribble (WI)
Fred Upton (MI)
Ed Whitfield (KY)
Doc Hastings (WA)
Rob Bishop (UT)
Ralph Hall (TX)
Chip Cravaack (MN)
Dave Camp (MI)
Patrick Tiberi (OH)
Nick Rahall (D-WV)
Peter DeFazio (D-OR)
Jerry Costello (D-IL) Jerrold Nadler (D-NY)
Corrine Brown (D-FL)
Ed Markey (D-MA)
Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX)
Earl Blumenhauer (D-OR)
Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC)

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:52:48 -0600

Overview

ENERGY-WATER SPENDING BILL

Key agencies funded: Department of Energy, Army Corps, Interior (Bureau of Reclamation)

FY 2012 Enacted Budget

FY 2013
President's Proposal

FY 2013
House Proposal

FY 2013
Senate Proposal

$32 billion, $297 million increase

$31.9 billion discretionary

($27.2 billion to Energy, $4.7 billion to Corps)

$32.1 billion

-$26.1 to Energy, Cuts $428 million from Energy Efficiency program

-$4.8 billion to Army Corps

-Interior – Bureau of Rec: $967 million

Passed committee, moves to floor

$33.4 billion

-$27.1 billion to Energy, Retains the $2 billion Energy Efficiency program

-$5 billion to Army Corps

-$1 billion to Bureau of Rec.

Passed Senate committee

Controversial Funding Issues to Monitor:

Energy Budget

Yucca Mountain funding termination.
Solyndra controversy – status of the loan guarantee program and whether Congress will fund the program.
Nuclear waste clean up programs.
Energy efficiency program funding (House cuts it, Senate increases it) versus traditional energy sources such as coal, natural gas and nuclear funding.
Maintain funding of the Environmental Management program at status quo or slight increase.
New funding source for Inland Waterways Trust Fund.
Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund issues – ensuring the annual appropriations amount meets the projections of the trust fund.

HOMELAND SECURITY

Key funding agencies: FEMA, Coast Guard, Transportation Security, Customs and Border Control

FY 2012 Enacted Budget	FY 2013 President's Proposal	FY 2013 House Proposal	FY 2013 Senate Proposal
$39.6 billion (1% reduction)	$39.5 billion base ($45 billion, includes disaster relief and Overseas Contingency Operations)	$39.1 billion without disaster relief	$39.5 billion base ($45.2 billion with disaster and contingency)

Controversial Funding Issues:

Disaster relief funding (House classifies it as emergency funding and not subject to the budget process).
Reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (expires May 2012).
Funding to support the flood map program (annual cuts to programs compromise flood planning).

FOREIGN OPERATIONS

Key agencies funded: Department of State, USAID

FY 2012 Enacted Budget

FY 2013
President's Proposal

FY 2013
House Proposal

FY 2013
Senate Proposal

$53.3 billion

$54.7 billion, 3% increase. Proposal includes $770 million aid program (few facts provided)

$48.4 billion

Raised concerns about disaster and development aid

$53 billion

Expressed concerns about the $770 million "mystery" aid program in development assistance budget

Controversial Funding Issues:

Funding international assistance when domestic programs need support.
Aid to the Middle East and North Africa.
Aid to Palestinian governments.
The $770 million Middle East Fund proposal in the President’s budget (with little clarification).

INTERIOR-ENVIRONMENT

Key agencies funded: EPA, Interior (non-water)

FY 2012 Enacted Budget

FY 2013
President's Proposal

FY 2013
House Proposal

FY 2013
Senate Proposal

$29.2 billion, EPA cut 3%

$8.3 billion - EPA

$28 billion

$29.7 billion

Status: Passed Senate Subcommittee

Controversial Funding Issues

EPA’s regulatory authority under the Clean Water Act.
Offshore drilling and expediting permits.
EPA’s study on fracking and impact on future drilling.
Interior’s new offshore drilling regulatory departments and role in advancing drilling versus limiting drilling.
Future of water infrastructure funding (Clean and Drinking water funds reduced).
Superfund funding.
STAG funding.

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION

Key agencies funded: Defense Department's Military Construction Program and the Department of Veterans Affairs

FY 2012
Enacted Budget

FY 2013
President's Proposal

FY 2013
House Proposal

FY 2013
Senate Proposal

$71.7 billion, $1.4 billion below FY 2011

$72.4 billion ($11.2 billion for military construction)

$71.7 billion

$72.4 billion

Controversial Issue:

Base-realignment and closure rounds in 2013 and 2015. Members from impacted states are concerned about losing bases in their districts and the jobs they create.

TRANSPORTATION-HUD

Key agencies funded: Department of Transportation and HUD

FY 2012
Enacted Budget

FY 2013
President's Proposal

FY 2013
House Proposal

FY 2013
Senate Proposal

$109 billion

(Transportation: $71.6 billion, and increase, HUD: $37.4 billion, a decrease)

$74 billion (discretionary funding)

Possible $50 billion/year in reauthorization proposal

$4 billion cut to both agencies, few details to date

Possible cuts to transit, policy programs, High Speed Rail

No cuts or funding increases from FY 2012 levels to Transportation

HUD: Would increase Community Block program

Controversial Funding Issues:

Transit: Changing the funding stream.
NextGen Satellite Navigation Upgrade: $21 million increase, including a FAA loan guarantee program to help airlines fund the new technology.
Truck Weights: Allows local increases in truck weights on roads.
Rail incentives: $100 million for high performance rail projects, including upgrading tracks to accommodate high-speed passenger trains.
Highway Trust Fund: No discussion yet, but anticipate major battles since it depletes in 2013.
Funding research-related programs such as Transportation Research Board and Metropolitan Planning Organizations.
Keystone XL Permit – expediting the permit process to expand drilling.
Private Activity Bonds – increase the volume cap to support water infrastructure projects in localities.
RESTORE Act – Ensuring the amendment remains intact during conference.

Transportation Conferees Appointed (First meeting scheduled for May 8)

Senate Members

Barbara Boxer (D-CA)
Max Baucus (D-MT)
Dick Durbin (D-IL)
Tim Johnson (D-SD)
Bill Nelson (D-FL)
Charles Schumer (D-NY)
Robert Menendez (D-NJ)
James Inhofe (R-Ok)
David Vitter (R-LA)
Orrin Hatch (R-UT)
Richard Shelby (R-AL)
Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX)
Jay Rockefeller (D-WV)
John Hoeven (R-ND)

House Members

John Mica (FL)
Don Young (AK)
John Duncan (TN)
Bill Shuster (PA)
Shelley Moore Capito (WV)
Rick Crawford (AR)
Jaime Herrerra Beutler (WA)
Larry Buschon (IN)
Richard Hanna (NY)
Steve Southerland (FL)
James Lankford (OK)
Reid Ribble (WI)
Fred Upton (MI)
Ed Whitfield (KY)
Doc Hastings (WA)
Rob Bishop (UT)
Ralph Hall (TX)
Chip Cravaack (MN)
Dave Camp (MI)
Patrick Tiberi (OH)
Nick Rahall (D-WV)
Peter DeFazio (D-OR)
Jerry Costello (D-IL) Jerrold Nadler (D-NY)
Corrine Brown (D-FL)
Ed Markey (D-MA)
Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX)
Earl Blumenhauer (D-OR)
Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC)

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 07:27:50 -0600

Listed below are highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of April 23, 2012. Due to the magnitude of legislative business considered by Congress, it is not a comprehensive accounting.

Overview
Last week was a productive one for members of Congress. Both chambers approved another 3-month extension to support transportation funding and appropriators made traction on the Fiscal Year 2013 Federal budget, which begins October 1.

This week, Congress continues to mark up appropriations bills, with a focus on the transportation reauthorization.

Transportation Update
Both chambers passed a new 3-month extension. Of note, the oil spill legislation is included in the extension. This legislation will direct 80 percent of oil spill funds from the BP Oil spill to gulf coast states.

The transportation extension includes several controversial measures that will be the subject of debate during conference. These measures include approving the Keystone XL Pipeline permit and expediting environmental reviews.

Next Step: This week, the Senate will begin the process to start conference to pass a unified transportation bill. However, most transportation experts speculate that passage of a unified, 5-year bill will not occur before the election.

Federal Budget 2013 Update
Congressional appropriators in both chambers began to set the overall funding direction of the 2013 Federal budget. Due to the differences in the funding priorities, it is likely that final approval on all 12 spending bills will occur after the November election.

House Energy – Water Spending Bill
The Energy – Water spending bill provides funding for the Army Corps, Department of Energy, Interior and several independent agencies. Last week, the House subcommittee on Energy and Water Resources approved a $32.1 billion appropriation to these agencies, nearly $1 billion less than the President’s request.

Budget Highlights

Army Corps: $4.8 billion ($83 million more than President Obama’s request, but a $188 million cut from FY 2012)
Energy: $26.3 billion ($365 million reduction)
           Cuts: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy -- $1.5 billion
                    Defense and Environmental Clean Up -- $100 million
           Increases: Nuclear Security Weapons -- $276 million

Interior: $988 million ($89 million reduction)

Senate Transportation and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations
The Senate Transportation and Housing and Urban Development (HUD) spending bill provides funding to support programs at the Department of Transportation and HUD. Last week, the Senate subcommittee authorized $53.4 billion, $3.9 billion less than the 2012 level.

Funding Highlights (most programs are funded at 2012 levels)

TIGER: $500 million for grants to support innovative transportation projects (same as 2012).
Highway: $39.1 billion (same as 2012).
Rail: $1.75 billion ($126 million increase). Funding includes $100 millioni for the High Performance Passenger Rail grant program to assist states with the improvement of existing intercity services and congestion mitigation.
Transit: $2.044 billion ($89 million increase) to support the New Starts program. New Starts supports projects that will provide new or expanded public transportation services.
Airport Investments: $3.35 billion (same as 2012).
Air Transportation Modernization: $956 million for the FAA’s NextGen program to modernize the nation’s air traffic control system.

HUD Budget Highlights
*HUD administers programs that provide funding support to CDM Smith’s public sector clients. Listed below are the two key programs.

Community Development Block Grants - $3.1 billion ($152 million increase). This program provides grants to states and communities to support economic recovery in low-income communities.
Sustainable Communities - $50 million to promote integrated housing and transportation planning.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 07:27:50 -0600

Budget Highlights

Army Corps: $4.8 billion ($83 million more than President Obama’s request, but a $188 million cut from FY 2012)
Energy: $26.3 billion ($365 million reduction)
           Cuts: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy -- $1.5 billion
                    Defense and Environmental Clean Up -- $100 million
           Increases: Nuclear Security Weapons -- $276 million

Interior: $988 million ($89 million reduction)

TIGER: $500 million for grants to support innovative transportation projects (same as 2012).
Highway: $39.1 billion (same as 2012).
Rail: $1.75 billion ($126 million increase). Funding includes $100 millioni for the High Performance Passenger Rail grant program to assist states with the improvement of existing intercity services and congestion mitigation.
Transit: $2.044 billion ($89 million increase) to support the New Starts program. New Starts supports projects that will provide new or expanded public transportation services.
Airport Investments: $3.35 billion (same as 2012).
Air Transportation Modernization: $956 million for the FAA’s NextGen program to modernize the nation’s air traffic control system.

HUD Budget Highlights
*HUD administers programs that provide funding support to CDM Smith’s public sector clients. Listed below are the two key programs.

Community Development Block Grants - $3.1 billion ($152 million increase). This program provides grants to states and communities to support economic recovery in low-income communities.
Sustainable Communities - $50 million to promote integrated housing and transportation planning.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

How Little We Pay: Exploring the Current Transportation Tax “Burden”

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:43:00 -0700

This is the second stop in our transportation infrastructure thought leadership series. In “How Little We Pay,” we examine the actual cost of the U.S. gas tax and show how current investments in vital mobility resources stack up against other costs.

Falling Behind: A Crisis in Transportation Infrastructure Investment

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:27:00 -0700

This is the first stop in our “Funding Future Mobility” thought leadership series. In “Falling Behind,” we examine how today’s investments are not meeting the growing needs of the U.S. transportation system, creating a gap that will continue to grow if action isn’t taken.

Introducing the Transportation Infrastructure Thought Leadership Series

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0700

In this ongoing thought leadership series—“Funding Future Mobility”—we will focus on one of the biggest challenges facing the future of the United States: preserving and enhancing the transportation systems that pump economic life and wellbeing through the country.

Promotions

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 09:46:00 -0600

We are proud to announce several employee promotions.

Announcing

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 09:39:00 -0600

We are proud to announce several employee promotions.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

Listed below are highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of January 23, 2012. Due to the magnitude of legislative business considered by Congress, it is not a comprehensive accounting.

EVENTS TO NOTE

President’s Budget will be released on 2/13.
ASCE released report on water infrastructure.
The House will consider the Keystone Pipeline Permit.

Congress Extends FAA–Again
With another extension deadline looming, the House approved another continuing resolution to keep operations running at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through February 17. The purpose of the short extension is to allow negotiators to finalize a longer term bill. The issue:

There are many issues, but at the heart of the controversy is a union issue that includes the House Republican version of the longer term proposal. That provision would overturn a National Mediation Board rule that allows employees in the aviation industry to form a union by a simple majority of those voting (versus treating workers who didn’t vote as “no” votes).
The Senate’s version did not contain that provision, and insisted that it be removed. The House disagreed, leading to a stalemate.

This week, both houses were closer to an agreement, but needed more time to finalize it into a longer bill. However, there are still a few unions who disagree with the proposed compromise. Hopefully, Congress can overcome these union issues and finalize a long-term bill.

Surface Transportation Legislation Proposed–Financing Uncertain
The Senate and House are working on alternate transportation bills. The Senate is proposing a 2-year reauthorization that costs $109 billion. The Senate Banking and Finance Committees are developing a financing package, but nothing has been unveiled to date.

The House is proposing a 6-year reauthorization for $260 billion. The language has not been unveiled, but through press releases, the House plans to pay for it with new domestic oil drilling.

It is important to manage expectations amid the fanfare of a possible transportation bill. The House and Senate proposals are far apart, and it is highly unlikely that either chamber will reach a compromise this year. Given the election year dynamics, if a bill is not brought to the floor by March, then it is unlikely that a long-term transportation bill will be approved this year.

The current stop gap measure for transportation expires March 31.

Keystone XL Pipeline
Congress is investigating ways to force an approval of the Keystone pipeline permit. An analysis from the Congressional Research Service found that Congress is not constitutionally barred from asserting its foreign commerce regulatory authority.

The House Energy and Commerce Committee met this week to discuss legislation that would allow Congress to make the final decision on granting a permit. It is unclear whether Congress will unify behind legislation to force a permit for Keystone.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

Listed below are highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of March 5, 2012. Due to the magnitude of legislative business considered by Congress, it is not a comprehensive accounting.

EVENTS TO NOTE

House on recess through March 16

Transportation Authorization Update
Senate
Last night, the U.S. Senate, in a bipartisan vote, approved a 2-year transportation bill. This bill included 30 amendments, including establishing a gulf restoration fund (RESTORE Act). The RESTORE the Gulf Coast Act is a bipartisan, regional approach that will dedicate 80 percent of Clean Water Act penalties to be paid by the responsible parties to the restoration of the Gulf Coast ecosystem and economy. All members who represent the gulf coast support this bill. Analysts project that BP and its partners could be ordered to pay the government more than $20 billion.* Without passage of this legislation, the spill funds would be directed to the treasury instead of the gulf coast.

The House passed its version of RESTORE in the energy provisions that were carved out of its 5-year transportation bill. Since both chambers passed RESTORE, it would likely survive a conference committee negotiation and be included in the overall transportation package.

*No settlement on the environmental impact has been reached to date.

House
The 5-year transportation bill proposed by Speaker Boehner has stalled. House members oppose several provisions, including the provision to alter transit funding, and are not unified in support for the bill. This week, Speaker Boehner told his caucus that they have three choices: pass the 5-year bill, consider the Senate transportation bill, or pass a short-term extension. Speaker Boehner is leaning toward taking up the Senate bill.

Although the House is on recess next week, the leadership plans to work on securing the votes to pass the 5-year bill.

Senate Majority Leader Reid is urging Speaker Boehner to consider the Senate version since it is a bipartisan measure that should easily pass the House chamber. He noted that the current extension expires in a few weeks.

Next Steps
If Speaker Boehner secures the necessary votes to support the 5-year transportation bill, then the next step is to convene a conference committee to approve one bill. Since the House transportation bill is much more controversial than the Senate version, it is doubtful that the conference committee would agree on provisions in such a short period of time.

The best scenario for passage of a transportation bill is for the House to consider the Senate’s transportation bill, pass it and then a conference may not be needed. The chambers could send the bill to the President for signature and have a 2-year transportation reauthorization signed into law.

2013 Federal Budget Update
Amid the backdrop of the transportation reauthorization, the 2013 Federal budget process has begun. House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan plans to produce a 2013 budget that would cap spending below the $1.047 trillion set last August. Republicans are divided on that spending ceiling noting that with sequestration, that would leave a $931 billion spending ceiling which could be drastic. The impact of sequestration, which goes into effect in 2013, concerns appropriators. Chairman Ryan may produce a separate bill to deal with the sequester issue. Many insiders believe that sequestration will be repealed after the November election.

FEMA Reauthorization Update
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee approved legislation to reauthorize the Federal Emergency Management Agency through Fiscal 2014. The bill would provide $1 billion annually for disaster programs for each fiscal year through 2014. The House is expected to vote on the measure in the next few weeks.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

Listed below are highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of March 26, 2012. Due to the magnitude of legislative business considered by Congress, it is not a comprehensive accounting.

Overview
There are three key legislative items occurring this week:

First, the House will vote on a 3-month transportation extension.
Second, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments concerning the constitutionality of President Obama’s health care law.
Third, the House Republicans will unveil its GOP budget platform for 2013.

Transportation Update
This week, Congress continues to debate a transportation bill, with the Senate and House at odds over the length and financing of the bill. With the current transportation bill set to expire this weekend, the House will vote on a 3-month extension to buy time to secure enough votes to pass its 5-year reauthorization. This vote will take place today. The Senate may consider a short-term extension to ensure funding is in place to support surface transportation programs. The extension will be a “clean” one, devoid of new funding schemes and programs. It is very likely a 3-month extension will clear both chambers.

Of note, President Obama’s Fiscal Year 2013 transportation budget proposal included a $50 billion up-front investment in roads and bridges. Congress has not yet considered his request, even though studies have shown that this investment would boost the economy.

Federal Budget 2013 Update
With the November Presidential election in mind, House Republicans will unveil a political platform consisting of several budget proposals. These proposals will include overhauling environmental regulations, changing U.S. energy policy and plans to repeal President Obama’s health care law. Of course, none of these proposals will lead to legislation that will clear the House. Rather, these proposals will be used to support campaign messages.

Sequestration

The budget sequester was introduced last August to secure a debt-ceiling deal. It calls for $1.2 trillion in cuts over the next decade, and $54.7 billion per year in defense cuts. The remaining money would come out of entitlement programs such as Medicare and from across-the-board cuts in discretionary programs.
The across-the-board spending cuts slated to take effect in early 2013 is under attack by both parties. Both parties haveproposed plans to repeal the sequester. Repealing the sequester will likely be a top agenda item during the lame duck session after the Presidential election.

Water Infrastructure Update
The water infrastructure funding debate continues with a series of hearings and legislative proposals, but very little definitive legislative action. There are two key proposals in the House to support funding water infrastructure projects.

(1) Water Infrastructure Financing Innovations Authority (WIFIA)
Modeled after the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovations Authority (TIFIA), WIFIA could access funds from the U.S. Treasury at low rates, and use those funds to support loans, loan guarantees and other credit mechanisms for water projects. WIFIA would supplement and not replace the revolving loan program.
Status: This proposal is in the infancy stages, and does not seem to be a legislative priority for this session. Only draft language has been discussed, but there is interest by Rep. Bob Gibbs (R-OH), chairman of the Water Resources Subcommittee. Several hearings have occurred.

(2) Private Activity Bonds (PABs)
HR 1802 Sustainable Water Infrastructure Act -Sponsors: Rep. Geoff Davis (R-KY); Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ)

S 939 Sustainable Water Infrastructure Act, Sponsors: Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ); Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID)

Description: Private Activity Bonds are a form of tax-exempt financing for local and state governments that choose to collaborate with private equity partners to address a governmental purpose, including water and wastewater projects. Each state is allocated a “volume cap” limiting the amount of PABs that can be issued per year. The bulk of PABs are issued for housing and education needs. Certain types of infrastructure are not subject to the volume cap, including airports, ports, and solid waste disposal facilities. Unfortunately, water infrastructure projects are not in that class. Therefore, members have proposed an amendment to the Internal Revenue Code to lift the volume cap for water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

Funding Impact: This proposal would provide $2 billion to $6 billion to governments annually. It would cost the Treasury $35 million per year.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

Listed below are highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of October 17, 2011. Due to the magnitude of legislative business considered by Congress, it is not a comprehensive accounting.

Jobs Bill Fails – Parties Debate Job Creation Proposals
President Obama’s $447 billion did not pass the Senate last week. The Senate Majority (Democrats) pushed a proposal of a surtax on personal incomes above $1 million to fund the bill. The bill would support infrastructure programs. The Senate Minority (Republicans) rejected the surtax or any other tax increases to fund the bill and recommended further cuts on federal spending.

The Senate Republicans unveiled an alternative jobs bill last week that contains a number of provisions. Listed below are the highlights:

-Amend the Constitution to require a balanced federal budget
-Reduce the corporate tax rate to no more than 25%
-Allow repatriation of overseas earnings at a lower tax rate
-Repeal a 3% withholding from payments to government contractors
-Expand offshore energy production
-Prohibit the EPA from using the Clean Air Act to regulate greenhouse gases

This proposal does not contain infrastructure investment proposals.

Budget Update – November 18th Stopgap Deadline Looms
Budget negotiations are at an impasse while House and Senate leaders decide how to divide the $1 trillion in discretionary funds allocated for the 12 annual spending bills. This week, the Senate will vote on a $128 billion discretionary spending package for Agriculture, HUD, Commerce and Transportation. So far, the Senate has not agreed on final numbers.

Another Continuing Resolution?
Given the inaction by both chambers to move the spending bills, there has been talk of another stopgap measure after the November 18th deadline to keep government operating.

Another Water Infrastructure Bill Introduced
The Water Quality Protection and Job Creation Act of 2011 was introduced by Congressman Tim Bishop (D-NY). Congressman Bishop is a Ranking Member on the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee. The bill authorizes $13.8 billion in the State Revolving Fund over 5 years and includes a requirement for QBS. Unfortunately, the committee chair does not support this proposal. Therefore, the likelihood of this bill passing is dismal.

GAO Releases Report on Transportation Funding
The General Accounting Office (GAO) released a report on taxes generated from SAFETEA-LU from 2005-2009. The research showed that all states received more funding than they contributed in highway taxes during this period. The full report can be found on the GAO website.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

UPCOMING SCHEDULE

The Continuing Resolution for FY 2012 expires on November 18th
The House is on Recess through November 11th
The Senate is in Session the Week of November 7th

Listed below are highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington the week of October 31, 2011. Due to the magnitude of legislative business considered by Congress, it is not a comprehensive accounting.

Appropriations Update
The Appropriations process is underway, with Senate passage of its first “minibus” spending bill that combines Agriculture, Commerce and Transportation/HUD. The bill, HR 2112, is a $128 billion spending measure.

Transportation bill highlights: Continues the FY 2011 numbers of $41.1 billion for highway projects, $8.3 billion for transit, and $550 million to support the TIGER program. The House’s numbers are significantly less with $27 billion for highway projects and $5.2 billion for transit. The House also eliminates the TIGER program.
HUD bill highlights: Includes $400 million for Disaster Relief funding and $2.85 billion for the CCDBG program.

Next Steps: The House and Senate will negotiate a final spending level and then submit the bill to the President for signature. This negotiations process, called a conference, began yesterday, and will continue through the week of November 14th. It is likely that the final number for transportation and housing will be higher than the Senate level.

Another Jobs Bill Proposal
House Republicans plan to introduce an infrastructure jobs bill that will fund the Highway Trust Fund through oil and gas drilling. Details are light on this proposal, and legislation has not been unveiled. The bill will include reforms to remove barriers from American energy production (regulated by EPA) and is touted as a long-term solution to our transportation funding issue. House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Mica is supportive of this proposal.

Senate Environment and Public Works Chairwoman Barbara Boxer has expressed concern about the plan because it limits regulations on oil and gas drilling.

Surface Transportation Reauthorization Update
Next week, the Senate will propose a two-year, $85.3 billion highway reauthorization bill. A bi-partisan measure led by Senators Boxer and Inhofe, the bill would enable highway departments to plan smaller infrastructure projects until a deal is finalized for a longer reauthorization. There are very few details about this proposal.

Senate Considers Second Minibus and Contractor Withholding (3 percent repeal)
Next week, the Senate plans to take up its second minibus that combines spending for Energy-Water, Foreign Operations and Financial Services. The Foreign Operations spending bill is considered the most controversial measure, as the Senate Minority is opposed to any increased funding to US AID programs.

On Monday, the Senate will test vote a motion to take up the House-passed bill (HR 674) that would repeal a law that requires the federal, state and local governments to withhold 3 percent of most payments made to government contractors. Senate Majority Leader Reid is likely to propose an alternative to the 3 percent withholding repeal to require tax withholding only on payments to contractors already delinquent on their taxes.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

UPDATES

Congress is on recess and will return on November 29th
December 7th: The Water Resources and Environment Committee may hold hearing on the State Revolving Fund program and other water programs.
December 7th: The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee may hold a hearing on the Gulf Oil Spill fines.

Listed below are highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington the week of November 14, 2011. Due to the magnitude of legislative business considered by Congress, it is not a comprehensive accounting.

Congress averted a government shutdown by passing a smaller spending package, HR 2112, that extends operations through December 16, 2011 at current levels. President Obama will sign the legislation tomorrow.

Appropriations Update
The conference committee cleared the first minibus, HR 2112, which included three of the 12 annual appropriations bills. The $128 billion legislation provides budgets for Agriculture, Commerce-Justice-Science and Transportation-HUD.
Highlights:

Transportation
- $500 million provided for National Infrastructure Investments (the Tiger program).
- Agreement does not include funding for High Speed Rail.
- Federal Highway Program provided $39.9 billion with an additional $1.66 billion to rebuild federal highways damaged by major natural disasters.
- $2.1 billion provided for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
HUD
- The Community Development Block Grant program is funded at $2.9 billion.
- Agreement allows up to a total of $300 million to be used on eligible disaster recovery activities in the areas most affected and distressed by natural disasters this year.

The remaining nine spending bills have an unclear fate, so Congress is planning to wrap the bills up into a single measure called an omnibus.

Transportation Update
As reported in last week’s Washington Briefing, Speaker Boehner convened a press release to unveil a new transportation package that would reauthorize surface transportation. Details are still sketchy, but Speaker Boehner continues to report that the five-year legislation will be introduced in December, and will include several energy production measures. However, when pressed about the top-line spending figure, Speaker Boehner did not have a response.

Government Withholding Relief (3% Withholding Tax Repeal)
As reported in last week’s Washington Briefing, CDM Smith urged passage of the 3% repeal. We are pleased that Congress fully repealed the 3% Withholding Tax mandate enacted in the tax code.

Gulf Coast Oil Spill Update
Congressman Scalise and Senator Landrieu are pushing a measure to direct oil spill fines to gulf coast states.

In the Senate, Senator Landrieu received a bit of pushback pertaining to the $1.2 billion over 10 years that the general fund would lose if oil spill fines were directed to the 5 states: LA, TX, MS, AL, and FL. Therefore, this bill will require offsetting that amount from another agency. Landrieu understands this and will still push the legislation.

In the House, the bill must be approved by the Transportation and Infrastructure committee. The hearing may take place 12/7/11. All told, we are optimistic that this measure will pass. Speaker Boehner is supportive as long as the 5 state delegations are in accord.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

EVENTS TO NOTE

President’s Budget will be released on 2/13.
ASCE released report on water infrastructure.
The House will consider the Keystone Pipeline Permit.

There are many issues, but at the heart of the controversy is a union issue that includes the House Republican version of the longer term proposal. That provision would overturn a National Mediation Board rule that allows employees in the aviation industry to form a union by a simple majority of those voting (versus treating workers who didn’t vote as “no” votes).
The Senate’s version did not contain that provision, and insisted that it be removed. The House disagreed, leading to a stalemate.

The House is proposing a 6-year reauthorization for $260 billion. The language has not been unveiled, but through press releases, the House plans to pay for it with new domestic oil drilling.

The current stop gap measure for transportation expires March 31.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

EVENTS TO NOTE

House on recess through March 16

*No settlement on the environmental impact has been reached to date.

Although the House is on recess next week, the leadership plans to work on securing the votes to pass the 5-year bill.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

Overview
There are three key legislative items occurring this week:

First, the House will vote on a 3-month transportation extension.
Second, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments concerning the constitutionality of President Obama’s health care law.
Third, the House Republicans will unveil its GOP budget platform for 2013.

Sequestration

The budget sequester was introduced last August to secure a debt-ceiling deal. It calls for $1.2 trillion in cuts over the next decade, and $54.7 billion per year in defense cuts. The remaining money would come out of entitlement programs such as Medicare and from across-the-board cuts in discretionary programs.
The across-the-board spending cuts slated to take effect in early 2013 is under attack by both parties. Both parties haveproposed plans to repeal the sequester. Repealing the sequester will likely be a top agenda item during the lame duck session after the Presidential election.

(2) Private Activity Bonds (PABs)
HR 1802 Sustainable Water Infrastructure Act -Sponsors: Rep. Geoff Davis (R-KY); Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ)

S 939 Sustainable Water Infrastructure Act, Sponsors: Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ); Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID)

Funding Impact: This proposal would provide $2 billion to $6 billion to governments annually. It would cost the Treasury $35 million per year.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

UPCOMING SCHEDULE

The Continuing Resolution for FY 2012 expires on November 18th
The House is on Recess through November 11th
The Senate is in Session the Week of November 7th

Transportation bill highlights: Continues the FY 2011 numbers of $41.1 billion for highway projects, $8.3 billion for transit, and $550 million to support the TIGER program. The House’s numbers are significantly less with $27 billion for highway projects and $5.2 billion for transit. The House also eliminates the TIGER program.
HUD bill highlights: Includes $400 million for Disaster Relief funding and $2.85 billion for the CCDBG program.

Senate Environment and Public Works Chairwoman Barbara Boxer has expressed concern about the plan because it limits regulations on oil and gas drilling.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Washington Briefing

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:57:00 -0600

UPDATES

Congress is on recess and will return on November 29th
December 7th: The Water Resources and Environment Committee may hold hearing on the State Revolving Fund program and other water programs.
December 7th: The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee may hold a hearing on the Gulf Oil Spill fines.

Transportation
- $500 million provided for National Infrastructure Investments (the Tiger program).
- Agreement does not include funding for High Speed Rail.
- Federal Highway Program provided $39.9 billion with an additional $1.66 billion to rebuild federal highways damaged by major natural disasters.
- $2.1 billion provided for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
HUD
- The Community Development Block Grant program is funded at $2.9 billion.
- Agreement allows up to a total of $300 million to be used on eligible disaster recovery activities in the areas most affected and distressed by natural disasters this year.

The remaining nine spending bills have an unclear fate, so Congress is planning to wrap the bills up into a single measure called an omnibus.

Gulf Coast Oil Spill Update
Congressman Scalise and Senator Landrieu are pushing a measure to direct oil spill fines to gulf coast states.

Contact: Robin Black, Director of Government Relations at blackrn@cdmsmith.com.

Between a Rock and a Resource

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 10:56:00 -0600

CDM Smith is supporting the oil and gas industry with development activities across multiple shale gas and other unconventional basins--stretching throughout the United States and in central Europe.

Washington Briefing

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 17:33:00 -0600

Robin Black highlights the legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of September 26, 2011.

Washington Briefing

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 17:33:00 -0600

Robin Black highlights the legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of September 26, 2011.

Washington Briefing

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 17:33:00 -0600

Washington Briefing: Highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of August 1, 2011.

Washington Briefing

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 17:33:00 -0600

Washington Briefing: Highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of August 1, 2011.

Washington Briefing

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 17:33:00 -0600

Washington Briefing: Highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of July 11, 2011.

Washington Briefing

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 17:33:00 -0600

Washington Briefing: Highlights of legislative activities occurring in Washington D.C. the week of July 11, 2011.

ISO 50001: The New Energy Management System Standard

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 19:15:00 -0600

Energy management is more than saving money—it is about understanding processes and energy patterns, setting realistic goals and monitoring progress, and protecting natural resources while leveraging alternative ones. Adopting a firmwide commitment to energy best practices is one way that organizations can meet today’s cost-cutting and long-term energy efficiency goals.

A formal energy management program helps document, understand and improve energy usage. In 2011, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) released ISO 50001 – Energy Management Systems (EnMS). This voluntary standard serves as a model to elevate energy management and conservation efforts by embedding awareness, best practices and increased value firmwide. With broad applicability across economic sectors, it is estimated that the standard could influence up to 60 percent of the world’s energy use.*

Immeasurable Benefits
From the same foundation as ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems and ISO 14001 – Environmental Management Systems, this new auditable standard is based on a management system model familiar to many companies. It establishes a framework for industrial plants, facilities and organizations to uniformly apply operational procedures for short-term and future benefits.

While the primary drivers of an energy management system are reduced costs and environmental responsibility, benefits extend beyond lower utility bills. Implementing an energy program may help identify additional energy reduction opportunities, streamline or improve existing processes, support corporate sustainability initiatives, and increase shareholder value. For multinational companies, certain countries may require these standards in place to conduct business. From a societal perspective, a business may be recognized as a leader in the sustainable use of energy resources, improving their brand and making products more attractive to consumers.

Steps to Success
There are seven major components to ISO 50001, and collectively they follow a plan-do-check-act approach. The first four steps help with the planning and actions to achieve targets and goals; the latter three focus on implementing organization or cultural changes. To be successful, this must be a continuous process championed at all levels with all elements working in unison.

The General Requirements proclaim the organization’s basic need(s) to want to make an improvement. If there is no desire or driving force for improving energy management, then the rest of the process is essentially moot. After all, this program is still voluntary.
Management Responsibility formalizes the organization’s commitment to energy management, including c-suite and senior management endorsement; definition of roles, responsibilities and authority; and dedication of staff and resources.
An Energy Policy is management’s “official statement” that commits the organization to set objectives and targets. The policy should address the products and processes that offer the most potential energy savings, such as using renewable energy or reducing emissions.
An Energy Action Plan prioritizes opportunities for energy improvements. It identifies key drivers of energy use; facilities, equipment and processes that use it the most; and individuals who can significantly affect change. The plan also includes the change in business practices (i.e., shifting sources from electricity to natural gas or solar, mandating LEED©-based construction guidelines) and establishes energy performance indicators to measure success.
Implementation and Operation is where the energy management system becomes an integral part of doing business. Steps include rolling out the program, communicating it to all staff, ensuring individuals involved are trained in their roles/responsibilities, and documenting the commitment and progress to external stakeholders.
Performance Audits ensure the program conforms to the plan, personnel are executing steps, monitoring is ongoing and accurate, and recordkeeping is complete. Auditors should be familiar with the action plan but not responsible for its execution. Nonconformities should be carefully reviewed to determine reasons, if goals were realistic, corrective actions, and follow-up assessments.
Management Review is critical to determine extent to which objectives and targets have been met; review performance of all projects, audit report and corrective actions; and take action based on results.

Self Check
It is important for a business to conduct a thorough self assessment of its current performance, goals and requisite level of effort before deciding to embark on an energy management program. For firms with energy management procedures already in place, it may be less of a reach to take on the standard and make adjustments. For firms just beginning the practice, the exercise will be more intense and may require a significant cultural shift. And even though this is a standard, there are varying degrees of implementation—ranging from an informal checklist and action items to achieving full certification through independent auditing. Determining the path and achievable success depends on business capabilities, goals and strategies.

Be Informed
For more information on energy management and ISO 50001, please contact Matt Goss at +1.518.782.4500 or gossmt@cdmsmith.com. You can also find more information on this topic on the following websites:

ISO 50001 website: Energy Management

ISO videos: www.youtube.com/PlanetISO

To find the ISO member in your country: www.iso.org/isomembers

CDM Smith Industrial Outlook: Management Systems Overview

*2007 U.S. Energy Information Administration survey citing global energy consumption by sector, including 7 percent by the commercial sector (defined as businesses, institutions, and organizations that provide services), and 51 percent by the industrial sector (including manufacturing, agriculture, mining, and construction). As ISO 50001 is primarily targeted at the commercial and industrial sectors, adding the above figures provides an approximate total of 60 % of global energy demand on which the standard could have a positive impact.

Coal Combustion Product Regulation and Remediation

This issue of Industrial Outlook examines recent industrial byproduct safety incidents that have sparked global debate about coal combustion product impoundment regulation.

Sustainable Remediation

Sustainable remediation is a holistic approach to achieving site objectives, preserving natural resources, economic viability, and enhanced quality of life.

The New International Green Construction Code

The International Code Council recently launched the International Green Construction Code initiative, subtitled "Safe and Sustainable: By the Book." The IGCC aims to significantly reduce energy usage and greenhouse gases through mandatory green building design and performance in new and existing commercial buildings.

Design-Build for Expediting Project Schedules

New permit requirements, court orders, and other critical schedule drivers often require companies to complete complex projects in a short amount of time. When schedules are tight and the pressure is on, choosing a design-build approach for project completion can make all the difference.

Steps Toward a Lighter Water Footprint

Sustainability is a hot topic for companies and water usage/discharge is an important component to overall sustainable operations. For many facility and operations managers, an emerging term to keep in mind is water footprint.

Microconstituents—Staying Ahead of the Game

There are 2.5 million chemical compounds in existence; new and refined analytical testing procedures—capable of measuring in nanograms and parts per quadrillion—are enabling the detection of these "microconstituents." Understanding the presence and implications of them is important for managing health risks and liability, and for protecting brand reputation.

Environmental Management Systems

Competing successfully in the increasingly complex marketplace requires an understanding of the interdependent dimensions of the environmental, social, and economic landscape, and being equipped to deal with the increasing rate at which change occurs. For many organizations, developing an EMS is often the catalyst for new ways of thinking about sustainability performance.

Global Approaches to Soil Protection and Revitalization

Two European and U.S. initiatives are aimed at creating new policies and guidance for soil cleanup, protection, and land revitalization. While the European Union is focused on a comprehensive soil protection strategy for all member countries, the United States is providing an guidance on promoting land revitalization.

Odor-Eating Microbes Improve Air Quality

Odor from wastewater treatment plants is an everyday challenge for utilities. Although odor-eating microbes for air quality control is not a new technology, the rate at which these bugs—thiobacillus—work their magic is.

Relationships Key to Design-Build Projects for Industry

When developing environmental facilities and treatment systems, improving proprietary processes, and implementing one-of-a-kind projects, the design-build approach provides substantial advantages in the delivery of industrial facilities.

Process Modeling Simulates Wastewater Treatment System Behavior

Process models are essential tools for understanding wastewater treatment system behavior. Wastewater process simulators can provide insights for plant upgrades, new plant designs, and improved operational controls.

Membrane Technology Advances Wastewater Treatment and Water Reuse

Recent technological breakthroughs in wastewater treatment and reclamation for water reuse include membranes, which have emerged as a significant innovation for treatment and reclamation, as well as a leading process in the upgrade and expansion of wastewater treatment plants.

The Value of Pre-Validated UV Reactors

Public water systems planning to use UV light disinfection are required to use reactors that have undergone validation testing, and equipment manufacturers have responded with pre-validated UV reactors.

Sustainable Water Infrastructure in Tomorrow's Cities

Urban infrastructure managers face a critical challenge of ensuring that cities and their water resources are ecologically sustainable. To do so, we must tap new and sustainable ways of responding to this water infrastructure challenge.

Taking the Long View on Short Tunnels

Tunnel construction is risky, primarily because geological features can’t always be completely defined in advance. To address the risks involved on short tunnel projects, contractors and their clients must apply the same strategies and preventive measures used for larger projects.

Urban Roadway Innovation

We partnered with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) to redesign Interstate 40 and nearby interchanges in Knoxville, Tennessee—the largest project in the department’s history. The SmartFIX40 project improved safety, capacity and local access, while respecting neighboring residents and ecosystems.

Addressing the World's Water Challenges

The 2012 update to the EPA’s Guidelines for Water Reuse, which will be released in the fall, will cover a variety of technology options and serve as a guide for water reuse internationally. CDM Smith has been lead consultant on the publication since the first edition in 1980.

Industrial Solutions Rise from the Ashes

Recent coal ash slurry spills in the United States and red mud releases in Hungary have drawn the worldwide attention of environmentalists, regulators and industrial officials. We are helping energy utilities and industrial producers safely manage, store and dispose of residual byproducts.

Managing the Complex

CDM Smith provided comprehensive project and construction management, project controls, resident engineering and inspection, and project-wide geotechnical support for King County's Brighwater wastewater treatment plant.

Worth the Effort

CDM Smith is supporting two restoration projects—the diversion of 3,000 cubic feet per second of freshwater to restore wetlands, and the world's biggest dam removal project.

Grasping the Wind

Wind farms in Poland are providing sustainable, renewable energy to help the country reduce its carbon emissions and reach target goals.