11.24.09 Local Leaders Push for Reliable Energy Infrastructure, Security

By Michael Bradwell, Business editor, mbradwell@observer-reporter.com

For years, state Sen. Barry Stout has helped launch highway infrastructure projects – from a dedicated exit at Southpointe to expanding the Mon Valley Expressway and the Southern Beltway – to ensure that traffic flows smoothly on Western Pennsylvania roads.

On Monday, Stout, D-Bentleyville, was among several people who met at Consol Energy headquarters in Southpointe to make a pitch for another type of infrastructure he said is equally vital for the continued economic progress of the region.

Stout and several business leaders who are members of Pennsylvanians for Reliable Energy, a coalition of industry, business, labor and community groups, stressed the need to enhance and secure the reliability of energy infrastructure.

The coalition supports electric grid improvement projects such as the collaborative agreement between Allegheny Energy and Washington County stakeholders that was filed in July with the state Public Utility Commission.

Continue reading on the Washington County Works site