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Klobuchar, Franken, McCollum, Ellison Announce Over $93 Million for Central Corridor Light Rail Project

July 12, 2012

For Immediate Release: July 12, 2012
Contact: Maria Reppas (McCollum), 202-225-6631

Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken and U.S. Representatives Betty McCollum and Keith Ellison today announced over $93 million for construction of the Central Corridor Light Rail. The funding comes from the Department of Transportation.

“Investing in a 21st century transportation system will help attract businesses and boost Minnesota’s economy,” Klobuchar said. “This support will help ensure that our light rail system can expand its service and better serve residents and businesses.”

"The Central Corridor will be an important part of the modern transportation system that will help businesses and commuters and strengthen Minnesota's economy," said Sen. Franken. "This funding will go a long way toward ensuring the project will finish on time, and will lighten the financial load on state and local governments."

“The Central Corridor is an important investment in our transportation system and economic future,” said McCollum. “When it opens, it will provide a vital transportation link for tens of thousands of Minnesotans every day and will serve as a vibrant corridor for economic development.”

“This project will increase transportation options in Minneapolis and provide access to good construction jobs," said Rep. Keith Ellison. "I congratulate the Metropolitan Council on this award.”

The Central Corridor Line will receive $93,144,000 to help support construction of the 11-mile light rail line that will link downtown St. Paul, the University of Minnesota and downtown Minneapolis. It is scheduled to open in 2014, and is expected to carry over 40,000 commuters each day by 2030.