HARRISBURG - A Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission administrative law judge Friday recommended approval of the proposed Susquehanna-Roseland power line in Pennsylvania.  The line would cut through western and Southern Pike County, crossing the Delaware River in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

“Today’s recommendation is another important step in the PUC review process for a new transmission line that will improve the reliability of electric service for millions of people in Pennsylvania and throughout the region,” said David E. Schleicher, vice president-Transmission for PPL Electric Utilities.

The power line will strengthen the regional electric grid and prevent overloads on other major power lines, ensuring that electricity users will continue to have power when they need it the most – the hottest summer days and the coldest winter nights.

PPL Electric Utilities hosted 22 public open houses since announcing the project and has participated in four public input hearings run by the PUC. In addition, the company has had thousands of conversations with residents along the route, seeking input on everything from route selection to power line design.

“We will continue to keep an open dialogue with residents, public officials and other interested parties as this project moves forward,” Schleicher said.

The next step in Pennsylvania is review of the recommended decision by the PUC, which is expected to render a decision in January.

The line, which runs from Berwick, Pa., to Roseland, N.J., also needs approval by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. Additional review is required by the National Park Service because the line follows the route of an existing power line through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and because it crosses the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in New Jersey. For more information, visit www.pplreliablepower.com.