Revised land valuation proposal for fiber and other utility infra...

Revised land valuation proposal for fiber and other utility infrastructure projects in marine sanctuaries is nearing completion, NOAA source said. Agency’s National Ocean Service earlier this year (CD May 2 p4) sought comment on draft recommendation to sell 25-year cable permits in protected areas for up-front $125,000 per mile right-of-way fee. Source said transition to Bush Administration, in addition to industry complaints that first 15-day comment period was insufficient, were primary reasons that Dept. of Commerce reopened matter. He said Commerce was likely to set 45-day window for comments on revised plan, which differs from original, containing updated information on fair market value of marine sanctuary properties: “We want to make sure our economists have the latest data.” He said revised plan was in “final stages of clearance” and was being reviewed by gen. counsel’s office. NOAA probably will publish revision in Federal Register by Fri.