The MN Legislature convenes next Tuesday and must adjourn by May 23. How much can they do (and are they willing to do) in such a short time frame?

As we enter the session, leaders in the House and Senate agree with the Governor that a transportation/transit bill should be among the pieces they pass this session. Providing competitive transportation infrastructure (roads, bridges and transit) has long been a priority of this Chamber. This year we are pleased to report that the other major business associations share this multi-modal goal. Our collective message to Legislators is that they should not leave without getting something meaningful done in this critical area.

For those not close to this issue, here is the situation and the Chamber's position.

Current Funding Insufficient. Current funding is insufficient for Minnesota to either preserve the existing quality and performance of the state's transportation system, or improve it. This conclusion was reached by the broad stakeholder group the Transportation Finance Advisory Committee (TFAC) in 2012, and subsequent analyses show increases in the numbers TFAC agreed on. Minnesota is faced with a serious funding gap.

1. Roads and Bridges. The Minnesota State Highway Investment Plan (MnSHIP) determined that, during the 20-year period of 2018 to 2037, Minnesota will see a shortfall of $16.3 billion of funding necessary to provide roads and bridges that address congestion and meets the needs of Minnesota businesses.
2. Metro Transit. The region's adopted 2040 Transportation Policy Plan describes the need to expand the transit system, which would require an additional $7 - $9 billion between now and 2040.

MRCC Position
Understanding the important role transportation infrastructure plays in the economic health of a community, the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce (MRCC) supports increased investment in the state's road/bridge and transit systems. We support the adoption of new, stable and reliable funding sources, combined with increased efficiencies, to not only maintain the current level of service, but also to expand and repair the system as necessary to remain economically competitive with other regions across the country.

At the same Board meeting where this position was approved, the Board also voted for a resolution in support of the reconstruction of the 35W/I-494 interchange. The 17th most congested interchange in the country, carrying over 500,000 each day, this project was designed almost 60 years ago and must be replaced.

How Can You Help?
Let your legislators know that you expect them to pass a comprehensive transportation bill this session; one that provides funding for our roads and bridges across the state AND builds out the Metro Transit system.  I assure you, we will not remain a vibrant competitive market, if we continue to postpone investing in our infrastructure.

Hope springs eternal at the legislature and in baseball.
Go Legislators and Go Twins.