The next significant benchmark in the NECEC process has been met with the issuing of the permit from the Army Corps of Engineers. With that approval in hand, our work can now begin and the positive environmental and economic impact the project will create will become a reality. That impact will be felt almost immediately thanks to the recently signed deal between the NECEC and the state. Benefits that were expected to be delivered in a few years will be delivered now.
Final preparations are in motion, jobs are being filled, and the hiring process is in full swing. It is important to note that Mainers will be given first preference in every instance to fill these jobs. These jobs will go to a mix of both union and non-union labor. We expect to break ground on the project by the end of the year. I speak for the entire project team in expressing our excitement as we prepare to embark on the construction of the Clean Energy Corridor.
It is important to point out that while this is a major milestone in our efforts to make the NECEC a reality, there is still much work to do. Our opponents are gathering signatures for yet another referendum on the project. Fossil fuel corporations are at the heart of the signature drive, with NextEra donating more than $1.4 million to the effort. Your support for the corridor remains a critical part of bringing it to fruition.