Laserfiche WebLink
JAN 12 '04 11:25 T0-7636351090 FROH-RICHARDSON, RICHTER& ASSOCIATES T-385 P, 02/04 F-875 <br /> <br />January 9, 2004 <br /> <br />The Honorable Governor Tim Pawlenty <br />130 State Capitol <br />75 Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. <br />St. Paul, MN 55155 <br /> <br />Dear Governor Pawlenty: <br /> <br />At our January 8 meeting, the NCDA unanimously passed a resolution to approve Phase One of the <br />Northstar commuter rail project that includes the portion of the corridor between Big Lake and <br />Minneapolis and eliminates stations in northeast Minneapolis and in Coon Rapid~ at Foley Boulevard <br />(copy attached). I am writing to inform you of our action Fast night and to request your support for <br />Phase One of this very important project, <br /> <br />This res~alution was adopted with full recognition of the importance of meeting [he guidelines set by the <br />Federal Transit Administration for projects seeking federal funding. The NCDA has determined that this <br />4C-mile segment of the Northstar project meets the new cost-effectiveness standard established by the <br />FTA. <br /> <br />The NCDA, in cooperation with MnDOT, has also worked hard over the last several months to address <br />the key issues outlined by you and the Legislature during the 2003 session. We have analyzed <br />Northstar's cost-effectiveness using the FTA's tough ~tandard, updated ridership numbers based on <br />2000 census data and renewed negotiations with BNSF to narrow the issues and costs for operating <br />the Northstar commuter rail line. <br /> <br />You have stated that Northstar's standing with the FTA iS an Important factor in your decision on the <br />Northstar proposal, and that your support for transportation projects is contingent on demonstrated <br />cost-effectiveness and ability to move people, Recognizing this and with complete confidence that <br />Northstar meets your criteria, the NCDA strongly urges you to support the modified project aha include <br />the state funding necessary to match federal and local funds in your 2004 Bonding Recommendations. <br /> <br />We believe we once again have demonstrated that Northstar commuter rail is the most cost-effective <br />transportation option for this corridor. <br /> <br />We need your support, Governor Pawlenty, We hope we will be working with you to advance this much <br />needed proposal through the 2004 Legislature. Thank you for your attention and consideration. <br /> <br />Sincerely, <br /> <br />Commissioner Duane Grandy <br />NCDA Chair <br /> <br />Enclosure Northstar Corridor Development Authority <br />2100 3"' Avenue, Anoka. Mimlesotu 55303-2265 (763) 323-5700 Fax: 1763) 323-5§82 www. norrh.~lartr:.tin.org <br /> <br /> <br />