The state Public Service Board says Vermont Gas can continue its natural gas pipeline project in Addison County despite a 40 percent increase in the project's costs.
The project, which is already under construction, would extend a natural gas pipeline 43 miles from Colchester to Middlebury. The board had been reconsidering the project after the cost estimate jumped from $86 million to $121 million.
The Burlington Free Press says the board, in its ruling Friday, called the cost increase substantial but said it was not a reason to reverse its determination that the project will promote the general good of the state.
Opponents of the project condemned the ruling and called for a rally and sit-in later this month to protest the decision.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved.