Increasing costs mean local agencies need to dig in their heels if they expect to receive funding from the federal government.
"Hennepin County commissioners on Thursday authorized an additional $204 million for the Southwest Corridor light-rail project," reports Janet Moore.
"The funding infusion was required after Southwest’s budget recently surged to just over $2 billion due to the increased costs of labor, steel, fuel and other unanticipated cash outlays," adds Moore. The decision to increase the funding was made despite concerns about the cost increases.
"All told, Hennepin County is expected to contribute $801 million for Southwest, a portion of which will be paid with a half-cent transit sales tax. While the board approved the expenditure in theory on Thursday, members will consider funding the full amount after several key milestones are achieved this summer." One remaining question mark is $929 million in funding expected from the Federal Transit Administration.
FULL STORY: Hennepin County Board approves Southwest light-rail cash infusion — in theory

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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