(ALBANY, NEW YORK) - Governor Kathy Hochul is celebrating the start of construction of the 339-mile Champlain Hudson Power Express Transmission Line, being developed by Transmission Developers Incorporated, to deliver reliable clean energy from Hydro-Québec in Canada directly to New York City.

The construction of this Green Infrastructure Project, which begins following the execution of a major Union/Project Labor Agreement (PLA) between the developer and New York State Building and Construction Trades, is expected to bring $3.5 billion in economic benefits to New Yorkers - while creating nearly 1,400 family-sustaining Union jobs during construction.

The announcement accelerates progress to achieve New York's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act goal to obtain 70% of electricity statewide from renewable sources by 2030 on the path to a zero-emission grid.

Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York President Gary LaBarbera said: "If New York is to maintain its leadership in Green Infrastructure, it is critical that we can continue to invest in development that not only spearheads these initiatives, but also creates good paying Union jobs in the process.  Today's groundbreaking represents the beginning of yet another infrastructure project that will act as a stimulus for New York's economy and achievement of our clean energy goals.  We look forward to working with the State to provide Skilled Union Tradesmen and Tradeswomen who will effectively complete this project all while having the opportunity to pursue a Middle-Class career with benefits."

To Read This Labor News Report In Its Entirety, Go To: www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-start-construction-339-mile-champlain-hudson-power-express