LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Opponents of the Keystone XL pipeline in Nebraska are cheering the State Department’s decision to continue its review of the project despite the developer’s request for a delay.

Bold Nebraska director Jane Kleeb said Wednesday that residents who oppose the pipeline have waited more than six years for a decision from President Barack Obama.

The group wants the president to reject developer TransCanada’s request for a presidential permit, which is required because the route crosses an international border.

TransCanada says it requested the delay so the Nebraska Public Service Commission could review the project. Postponing the federal review could have left the permit decision to Obama’s successor.

TransCanada spokesman Mark Cooper says the company respects the decision and will work to show the project serves the nation’s interest.