(a) A number of cities, towns and villages in the coastal area of New York State possess either several distinctive harbor areas, or have the clear need to engage in some level of cooperative intermunicipal HMP development and implementation, or both. Resources, public access and other interests may suffer unless the planning process engaged in by these municipalities results in expeditious measures to address significant existing and projected conditions in or over navigable waters and underwater lands.

(b) To accommodate the realities of size, complexity, location or other uniqueness and the need for action, such a municipality may submit a written request to the secretary for permission to prepare an expedited HMP. Any request shall specify those circumstances which justify approval of such a request.

(c) The secretary shall advise the appropriate municipal officials in writing of his or her decision on the request, and of the terms and conditions applicable to the permission to develop an expedited HMP. The secretary shall also specify any additional requirements for approval of the program and implementing laws.