overview
The 2008 legislative session provides an opportunity to accelerate Minnesota’s progress on a transportation system that protects our environment by serving all residents. Our communities depend on a strong public transportation system to reduce harmful emissions in our air, toxins in our water, and to encourage thoughtful development patterns. In 2008, the Minnesota Legislature has the opportunity to pass a transportation bill that would fully fund a regional  transportation system, including urgently needed state funding for the Central Corridor light rail transit line connecting Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and to substantially expand transportation choices in Greater Minnesota.

problem
Currently, our transit funding is haphazard. Rather than fully funding a healthy transportation  system, Minnesota’s Legislature funds one new transit line at a time. There is also a pressing need to provide reliable funding for rail and bus operational costs. Minnesota shouldn’t have to wait a quarter century for the transportation results we need now. With an additional 1.2 million new residents living in the Twin Cities by 2030, we need to invest in transportation that takes care of our environment and contributes to a vibrant statewide economy.

position
Transportation Choices 2020, the statewide transit funding bill, has rapidly gained political support since its introduction in 2004. The bill would substantially increase funding for transit to implement the Metropolitan Council’s transit plan by 2020.
The plan would:

• Construct eight new dedicated transitways (i.e. light rail, commuter rail and bus rapid transit)

• Double bus ridership by 2020

• Create better transit facilities and new park & ride capacity

• Provide revenue to local governments for bicycle and pedestrian projects

• Expand transit in Greater Minnesota

This vision cannot happen without the Legislature adopting a stable and dedicated source of funding. With nearly one million people moving to   Minnesota in the coming decades, Minnesota needs an estimated $235 million per year to leverage federal funding opportunities. Public transit makes our region more vibrant and successful, connecting our region and shaping communities that we are proud to call home. Our Legislature and Governor must have the courage to invest in transportation that truly serves our communities and our environment.

Click here to see Transportation Choices 2020 Fact Sheet (PDF)