Lawmakers plug transit shortfall

Transportation funding bill is “good news,” says Bell
A transportation funding bill passed by the Minnesota Legislature and signed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty will keep the region’s trains and buses running on time.
The measure plugs a $62.4 million hole in the operating budget for the coming two years to fund current and committed transit service. This includes the startup this fall of the new 40-mile Northstar commuter rail line, as well as new bus rapid transit (BRT) service on I-35W and Cedar Avenue.
“This bill is good news for transit customers and motorists alike,” said Peter Bell, chair of the Metropolitan Council. “It will enable us to continue improving our transit system, growing ridership and easing traffic congestion.”