5.3. SR 11-19-2001 - Laserfiche WebLink

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There are many good reasons to support the Northstar project. Here are three. Growing area / growing congestion · Who believes our area will stop growing? · Our area continues to be the fastest-growing area in the state. That means we will also see growing traffic and growing congestion. Demand for rail · The public is supportive - and is demanding - more transportation options. · Who isn't spending more time in their car? · Despite rapid population growth, there are no plans to build, expand or increase capacity on the highways in the area. · Northstar residents want a commuter rail system that will link them to their jobs and to their families, friends, the airport, shopping districts, schools, etc. Rail helps highways · Northstar will take the equivalent of roughly 11/2 lanes of automobiles off the roads at times of peak congestion (like morning and afternoon rush hour). · Even if you don't use Northstar yourself, the people that do will help reduce congestion on the roads you are taking. Rail is more dependable · Regardless of rain, snow or traffic conditions, commuter rail will get you to your destination on time. For example, in Chicago, which has a similar climate to ours, the Metra service is on time 98 percent of the time. · People will know they can get to work on time regardless of the weather- or whether someone ahead of you has had a flat tire or got into a fender-bender. We all benefit from commuter rail · Commuter rail passengers will benefit from a reliable, affordable transportation option: - Thousands of commuters will be able to get to work on time every day. Veterans in Elk River or Anoka who need medical services provided only at facilities in St. Cloud and Minneapolis, will be able to take the Northstar rail instead of having to rely on volunteers and family members. Students will be able to commute to either St. Cloud State or the U of M. Business visitors will be able to travel from the airport to St. Cloud easily.