New York regulators on Friday approved a water-quality permit for a long-contested pipeline that would bring natural gas to the state from Pennsylvania.

The Northeast Supply Enhancement pipeline, or NESE, has drawn the ire of climate activists in New York City, who want to end the expansion of gas infrastructure there. New York had previously rejected it three times in the past decade, often over water quality concerns.

The Williams Cos. project would extend an existing pipeline, building off the coast of New Jersey and Staten Island to eventually connect with existing pipes in Queens. On Friday, New Jersey also approved permits for the pipeline.

The city has enacted multiple laws, such as Local Law 97 and Local Law 154 , that require existing buildings to electrify their heating system

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