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Push For Light Rail, BRT On Bridge Replacement Meets Resistance

Posted by: Nate Berg

20 August 2007 - 10:00am

The city of Minneapolis wants plans for the collapsed Interstate 35W to include the possible future implementation of space for light rail and bus rapid transit. The state department of transportation, however, has a differing vision.

"Minneapolis plans to flex its muscle on the design of the new Interstate 35W bridge, but the city and state transportation officials disagree over how much power local officials will wield over light rail and other major elements."

"Before starting construction, the state must give Minneapolis a report describing the bridge's purpose, route and proposed design, under a state law that calls for "municipal consent" by local government on highway projects. The city then approves or disapproves."

"But some elements the city wants, according to a draft statement issued Thursday, seem to conflict with the Minnesota Department of Transportation's stated vision. Specifically, the city believes the design 'should incorporate, and certainly not preclude options for future transit improvements, including light rail and bus rapid transit.'"

"That doesn't mean the span should immediately include a light-rail line, or that Hiawatha light rail should take that route, Mayor R.T. Rybak said."

"'We said what we need to do is preserve all options for rail,' Rybak said."

Full Story: Minneapolis making stand on bridge design
Source: Pioneer Press, August 16, 2007
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The areas where we have severe blight and indications of more blight to come are basically the same as they ever were. How in the world are we ever going to move our community development selves into an alternative future that thinks differently about the challenges we face in our cities and low-income suburban and rural communities?
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