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Greetings, With the start of the legislative session less than two months away, the Northstar Commuter Rail project is heading into session with strong public support. A recent statewide survey found Minnesotans support the proposal to authorize an estimated $60 million in state funding for Northstar by greater than a 3-to-1 margin. This survey demonstrates that Minnesotans, whether they live in rural or urban areas, recognize that Northstar Commuter Rail is an effective way to improve transportation capacity in an important regional corridor. Commuters and businesses throughout the state are feeling the strain of increasing congestion and they are ready to invest in cost-effective solutions such as Northstar. The only way we can achieve this solution is through your help. Urge your friends and family throughout Minnesota to show their support for Northstar: http://ga3.org/campaign/nspetition/forward/nap5b5kjk? In 2005 the Minnesota Legislature authorized $37.5 million in state bonding for Northstar. This year, the 2006 Legislature will be asked to authorize an estimated $60 million for Northstar construction. This funding commitment from the state is necessary before Northstar can receive federal matching funds which are needed to keep Northstar on schedule to begin service in 2009. Read a one page summary of the survey here: http://www.northstartrain.org/Surveyfactsheet1-5.pdf Duane Grandy |
