The Public Service Commission this week declared complete the application for a new, 190-mile power line from Central New York to the Hudson Valley.

The proposed power line stretches from the Utica area to the Hudson Valley.The declaration doesn't mean that the New York Regional Interconnect project has been approved, rather that it now moves to a more in-depth phase of study, according to the Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin.

NYRI officials say the $1.6 billion development will help the state relieve system congestion and increase reliability, while creating economic opportunities and reducing electricity rates.

However, the project has encountered significant criticism in Congress, including from U.S. Rep. Maurice Hinchey.