Smart Growth America President and CEO Geoffrey Anderson released the following statement after President Obama’s nomination of Gina McCarthy to fill the role of Environmental Protection Agency administrator:
“Gina McCarthy’s nomination comes at a time when the country is looking for ways to address key environmental issues while also not impeding a still-rebounding economy. If confirmed as the next administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), McCarthy will bring the kind of seasoned, bipartisan leadership needed to advance these important goals.
“McCarthy’s experience as an environmental regulator under then Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney is particularly noteworthy. In that capacity, McCarthy helped streamline state agencies and encouraged those agencies to work together more closely.
“This kind of collaboration is now seen in the federal Partnership for Sustainable Communities, an initiative that helps communities across the country improve access to affordable housing, increase transportation options, and lower transportation costs while protecting the environment.
“The Partnership has a proven track record of helping communities achieve a triple bottom line of enhanced economic prosperity, better quality of life and a more sustainable future. This program is one of the best examples of how the EPA is supporting today’s economy.
“The continued participation of the EPA in this groundbreaking program is vital, and I look forward to working with the next administrator to make that a reality. Smarter development and transportation investments remain one of the most impactful ways in which we can address air quality and climate change, while also helping to support strong neighborhoods and enhanced economic potential across the country.”