The backers of a proposed pipeline to transport natural gas from Pennsylvania’s Marcellus shale region through New York state say they are “steadfastly committed” to building the pipeline, despite the April 22 decision by the New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation to deny a permit for the project.

Deep under the New York City boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens is a water tunnel waiting for the water to be turned on. Actually, it is waiting for money to flow.

A Senate committee has approved an $11-billion water-resources bill authorizing funds for 27 new Army Corps of Engineers projects. But in a striking change from similar past measures, the new one has an array of drinking-water and wastewater provisions, too, including a new trust fund.