Washington – The federal Energy Department will take a second look at its decision to declare two national interest electric transmission corridors, one of which could pave the way for the New York Regional Interconnection power line through much of New York.

If the designation is allowed as is, NYRI could take land by eminent domain in order to build its 190 mile line from Oneida County to Orange County.

Residents, organizations and public officials in the large area are opposed to the line and Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Christopher Cunningham, who is chairman of a multi-county opposition group, said on the surface, the federal announcement is a good thing.

“It’s always positive when we hear the federal government is going to listen to people’s concerns,” he said. The governor’s influence in asking for a rehearing was important, said Cunningham. “I think we should be optimistic that they are going to listen again, but I don’t think that we should be overly optimistic that they are ultimately going to change their minds.”

US Senator Hillary Clinton, meanwhile, said it is good news that the DOE will revisit its October decision declaring the two national interest electric transmission corridors.