This designation falls under the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST-41), a federal initiative established in December 2015 to improve the efficiency, transparency, and coordination of federal permitting processes for major infrastructure projects. Projects under FAST-41 are known to benefit from an accelerated review process, with the potential to receive a Record of Decision approximately 18 months sooner than through standard procedures.
The Crownpoint-Churchrock project, which includes two uranium deposits suitable for in-situ recovery (ISR), is considered one of the largest undeveloped uranium resources in the United States. It is already licensed by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, with Laramide currently undertaking a license renewal process. The La Jara Mesa project, previously classified as a FAST-41 Transparency Project, has now been upgraded to full Covered Project status, aligning it with Crownpoint-Churchrock and streamlining its federal permitting path.
The company stated that this development represents a significant regulatory milestone for both projects, supporting a more efficient route to potential production. The FAST-41 designation is expected to enhance coordination among federal agencies, reduce delays, and improve project transparency.
Marc Henderson, President and CEO of Laramide Resources, expressed appreciation for recent federal policy moves that aim to advance nuclear energy development. He said: “The inclusion of our projects under FAST-41 is a meaningful step, but continued policy support will be essential to overcome the longstanding regulatory and permitting challenges that have constrained US uranium production. We are encouraged by this progress and proud to be part of a national effort to rebuild the nuclear fuel cycle from the ground up.”
The Crownpoint-Churchrock and La Jara Mesa projects are part of Laramide's broader strategy to support the revitalization of domestic uranium production in the United States. The company noted that these assets are well-positioned to contribute to national energy goals, especially in light of increasing emphasis on nuclear energy as a reliable and low-emission power source.
Laramide also emphasized that its participation in the FAST-41 program demonstrates its commitment to working within the U.S. regulatory framework to deliver responsible, timely, and strategically important uranium projects. The company continues to advance its permitting and technical work in alignment with national infrastructure and energy objectives.
