TransCanada is taking the steps to build the Keystone XL Pipeline through Nebraska.
Thursday the company submitted an application to the Nebraska Public Service Commission for approval on their proposed route.
In the application the company has to establish how the proposed route would benefit public interest.
The Commission cannot evaluate the safety of the pipeline, the review is based solely on the route of the pipeline.
This is part of the Major Oil Siting Act that states the Commission cannot evaluate the application based on the safety of the design, installation, impact of spills or leaks, emergency plans, replacement or maintenance.
A main opponent of the pipeline in Nebraska, Bold Nebraska, wasn't going to stay silent on the application being submitted.
In a statement issued Thursday afternoon Jane Kleeb, President of Bold Nebraska, says they plan to continue their fight against the pipeline:
"We are happy to see TransCanada actually following the law and our state constitution for the first time in the seven year battle over Keystone XL. Keystone XL is a foreign owned pipeline, using foreign steel headed to the foreign export market. Bold continues to stand with farmers and ranchers to protect property rights from being infringed upon by a pipeline for their private gain. Keystone XL is and always will be all risk and no reward."
The NPSC has 210 days from receipt of the documents to giving a yes or no on the application.
The Act also gives the commission an additional five months to issue its decision.