Allegheny Energy, Inc. has commented on West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin’s plan to introduce legislation as a result of the recent regulatory approval of the Trans-Allegheny Interstate Line (TrAIL).

“I intend to work collaboratively with Governor Manchin and the legislature in support of the Governor’s proposals to ensure that our customers and the state will benefit from the construction of the line,” said Paul J. Evanson, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Allegheny Energy. “The completion of this project can and should be of great benefit to all parties.”

Last week, the Public Service Commission of West Virginia issued an order approving construction of TrAIL, a 500-kilovolt transmission line project being undertaken by an Allegheny Energy subsidiary. The West Virginia segments of TrAIL represent the largest portion of the project, which is also awaiting regulatory decisions in Virginia and Pennsylvania.

Previously, a Hearing Examiner in Virginia recommended that regulators in that state authorize construction of the Virginia segments of TrAIL, subject to approvals in West Virginia and Pennsylvania. In the meantime, pre-construction work will continue, including right-of-way acquisition, permitting, and engineering activities. The construction phase will last about two-and-a-half years.