WSR 14-15-086

[Filed July 17, 2014, 4:03 p.m.]

Purpose of the Permit: Due in part to the May 23, 2013, collapse of the Skagit River Bridge, the Washington state department of transportation (WSDOT) and local governments are under scrutiny from the federal government to develop a robust schedule to inspect and repair bridges statewide. Bridges must be washed prior to inspection in order for cracks and other problems to be detected. Washington state department of ecology (ecology) has received a request to develop a general permit for WSDOT and local governments for coverage of discharges from bridge and ferry terminal maintenance activities.

Permit Development and Public Notice Process: Ecology invites comments on whether a general permit is appropriate for the proposed category of dischargers or whether individual permits are necessary. Any interested or potentially affected party may submit information on dischargers proposed to be covered under this general permit to Foroozan Labib at foroozan.labib@ecy.wa.gov, or (360) 407-6439.

Ecology invites comments and input from stakeholders and other interested parties on the development of the draft permit. Persons interested in the permit may be placed on a mailing list to receive notices of the draft and final permit.

Permit Development Schedule: A draft permit and fact sheet is tentatively scheduled for public review early 2015 and ecology will hold a public workshop and hearing on the proposed permit in Lacey, Washington, during the public comment period.

If you have questions, or would like more information about the permit, contact Foroozan Labib at foroozan.labib@ecy.wa.gov, or (360) 407-6439.