More than half a dozen people were arrested as they protested the expansion of a gas pipeline that goes from Rockland into Northern Westchester.

For an hour yesterday, nine protesters blocked access to Spectra Energy's construction yard in Montrose.

The Spectra Energy pipeline would replace 20 miles of existing Algonquin pipeline with a new one nearly twice as large in diameter. The pipeline would run from Stony Point, under the Hudson River and into Verplanck and Buchanan. Protesters say the expansion would impact neighboring communities, including one elementary school.

A spokesperson for Spectra Energy has told News 12 that the project will provide affordable and environmentally friendly energy, adding that the company has been operating safely for more than 60 years.