Testimony began this morning on an application by Greensburg-based Allegheny Power to build a0 37-mile, 500-kilovolt power line through Washington and Greene counties.

During evidentiary hearings in Pittsburgh over the next three weeks, the company is expected to present testimony to the state Public Utility Commission showing why the power line is needed and defending its choice of a route.

Testimony questioning the company's plan is expected to be presented by the PUC's Office of Trial Staff, the state Office of Consumer Advocate, and representatives from a citizens' group.

Although the public is excluded from testifying or speaking during the hearings, about 60 members of Stop The Towers, a grass-roots organization, turned out at the hearings today at the State Office Building on Liberty Avenue to voice opposition. They have expressed concerns about safety and quality of life, along with the possibility of lowered property values.

The power line would begin in North Strabane, Washington County, and continue into Greene County and West Virginia, ending in Virginia. Allegheny Power already has had similar hearings in West Virginia.

The PUC is expected to make a decision by September.