In April 2008, Governor Pawlenty vetoed nearly all transit projects in the state's bonding bill, including the $70 million in bonding necessary for the Central Corridor to stay on track this year. The Governor's staff had publicly assured legislators and supporters of transportation choices that the Central Corridor was a high priority, so his veto came as a major surprise.
Legislators are currently exploring options for funding Central Corridor, including the possibility of a second bonding bill. Without a solution this session, Central Corridor will be on hold for at least one year. In this time, project costs will rise another $40 million and federal matching funds (50 percent of total costs) become much less certain. Without federal matching funds, the Central Corridor will not be built in the foreseeable future.
Governor Pawlenty's actions during this session demonstrate his clear lack of leadership for a transit system that can serve all Minnesotans. Despite his declared support for addressing climate change and providing effective transit, he continues to deny resources that would create alternatives to driving (as gas prices continue to climb) and ensure that Minnesota has clean air and water in future generations.
What you can do:
- Contact the Governor's office. Let him know that you are disappointed in his lack of leadership and ask him to bring Central Corridor back to the table for bonding this session. The governor can be reached by phone at 651-296-3391 or tim.pawlenty@state.mn.us.
- Contact your legislators and urge them to work together to ensure that Central Corridor is funded during this legislative session. You can find your legislators by going to http://www.leg.state.mn.us/ and clicking on "Who Represents Me?"
Deadline for responding: Please take action by Monday, May 19th.
