2 Counties Seeking 'Energy Corridor' In Western Md.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Maryland's two westernmost counties are seeking state support for development of an "energy corridor" recognizing the economic value of the region's natural resources.

Allegany and Garrett county officials are pitching the proposal at their annual breakfast for state legislators Friday in Annapolis.

They say western Maryland has abundant coal, natural gas and timber. They also tout the region's potential for more wind, solar and hydroelectric power.

The officials say development of these assets would create jobs and generate new revenue for the state. Several agencies at the federal level are planning to designate energy corridors in 11 Western states. Their goal is to minimize landscape disturbances by bundling transmission lines and pipelines along designated routes.

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