The federal Environmental Protection Agency last week announced it favored the so-called Northern Alignment of the Intercounty Connector, an 18-mile toll road that would connect Gaithersburg and Laurel.

The position, the first time the EPA did not find the highway unacceptable, puts it at odds with the Montgomery County Council, which favors the Southern Alignment, also known as Corridor 1.

That route crosses forests, stream valleys and wetlands. To reduce the effect on the environment, the State Highway Administration in November announced $300 million in improvements to the $2.4 billion project.

"We appreciate that SHA has committed to longer bridges, advanced stormwater management concepts and a narrow footprint to address water quality and wetland impacts," reads a letter from Donald S. Welsh, the EPA's regional administrator. "However the impacts remain significant."

By taking the northern route, also known as Corridor 2, the effect on the environment can be reduced to acceptable levels, Welsh said.

Political leaders have opposed the Northern Alignment in part because it would flatten more homes and businesses.

The EPA's position was revealed late Feb. 28, the last day of public comment for the ICC's Draft Environmental Impact Statement. The same day, the council voted 6-3 in favor of the Southern Alignment.

Councilwoman Marilyn J. Praisner, a longtime ICC opponent, said she wished the council had the EPA letter as it was taking its votes.

"I don't think it would have changed any position, but it is reflective of the reasons why there have been so many problems with building this road," said Praisner (D-Dist. 4) of Calverton. "And as far as I'm concerned, the Northern Alignment should be off the table."

The Army Corps of Engineers also has questioned the Northern Alignment because it passes so close to the Rocky Gorge Reservoir. A hazardous materials spill could endanger the drinking supply in the Patuxent Basin, the corps has said.

Randy Pomponio, an EPA division director for environmental assessment, said the EPA and the SHA will continue to discuss highway designs.

ICC supporters concede that the EPA will have clout as the ICC deliberations progress.

"There's cause for concern, not cause for alarm," said Councilman Steven A. Silverman (D-At large) of Silver Spring.

Another ICC opponent, Council President Thomas E. Perez, is certain the long and winding road heads in one direction.

"The reality is, the ICC issues are going to be decided in a court of law," said Perez (D-Dist. 5) of Takoma Park. "They're intent on building it, come hell or high water. These environmental issues, the exorbitant cost issues. ... I think the courts are going to decide. That's one thing everyone can agree on."