4.3. SR 11-17-2003Item# /4.3.
MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
Mayor and City Council
Harlicker, Senior Plann~
Scoff
November 17, 2003
Norfhsfar Corridor Updafe
At the NCDA meeting held on November 6th the A~uthority listened to a presentation on
joint area developments. The developer of Ramsey'! Town Center development also gave a
presentation on that development. The Authority received an update commtmity
involvement that included a summary of the recent ~ally in Sauk Rapids.
DOCUMENT2
NCDA
Agenda
November !i6, 2003
4:30 pim.
Sherburne County GOvernment Center
Elk River, MN
Action Requested
Minutes of the October 2, 2003 Meeting*
Approval
Executive Committee Recommendation: Consider Executive
a) Memorandum of Understanding with Mn/DOT regarding Committee
BNSF Negotiations* Recommendation
b) Selection of Negotiation Services Consultant
c) Selection of a Public Information Technicall Services Consultant*
Presentation on Joint Station Area Development*
Presentation
Community Involvement*
a) All Aboard Celebration
b) Businesses
c) Citizens
Discussion
Hiawatha Tour: December 4, 2003*
Update
Other: Next Meeting
* Documentation enclosed
DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT
NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Regular Meeting Minutes
Octoberi 2, 2003
The Northstar Corridor Development Authority imet on October 2, 2003, in regular session at
the Sherburne County Government Center, Elk River, Minnesota.
The following members, alternates and citizens Were present: Duane Grandy, Dan Erhart,
Mm'k Stenglein, Ewald Peterson, Peter McLaugl~lin, Lynn George, Terry Nagorski, John
Norgren, Arne Engstrom, Bob Jolmson, Patrick Cairns, Kaye Bechtold, Gary Erickson, Joni
Astrop, Jean Keely, Gerry Donlin, Ross Olson, ~im Barton, Lona Schreiber, Luci Botzek,
Elliott Perovich, Craig Stone, David Loch, Stev~ Novak, Jeff Dehler, Todd Rapp, Jolm Himle,
Robert Kirclmer, Mike Schadauer, Bill Scba'eibetr, Bruce Nawrocki, Dennis Berg, Tom Gamec,
Joba~ Weaver, Leroy Pauley, Mary Richardson, elf Dehler, Gary Erickson
o
Duane Grandy, Chairperson, called the n
A motion was made by Ewald Peterson,
agenda of October 2, 2003, as presented
as amended.
~eeting to order at 4:40 p.m.
seconded by Patrick Cairns to approve the
the meeting minutes of the September 4, 2003
Executive Committee Report:
a) Request for proposals were receiyed from the following for the selection of
Consultant for Technical Support for BNSF negotiations:
MainLine Management, Inc.
SYSTRA Consulting, In~.
Booz Allen Hamilton, Ind.
R.L. Banks and Associates
A motion was made by Patrick ~airns, seconded by Ewald Peterson and
carried unanimously to approve t!~e recommendation of the Northstar Executive
Committee and authorize the Chairperson to finalize negotiations and execute
the agreement with MainLine Management in the amount not to exceed
$158,000 for consulting services !for Technical Support for BNSF Negotiations
with the contract to commence oh October 2, 2003 and continue ttzrough the
completion of negotiations and executive of agreements with BNSF, unless
earlier terminated.
b)
Lona Schreiber and Bill Schreiber reviewed the 2004 Legislative package
including NCDA requests including the fbllowing:
1. Commit the State of Mirmesota to provide 40% of the capital
costs of the Northstar Project ($126.5 million);
2. Dedicate a source of funding for rail operating costs;
DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Regular Meeting Minutes
October 2, 2003
Page 2
Provide an exemption from sales tax on the acquisition of rail
rolling stock, construction costs and fuel used in commuter rail
operations;
Clarify liability and insurance matters arising in the construction
and operation of commuter rail; and
Preserve and protect the regional railroad authorities' interests
and assets, and strengthen local govermnent's pm'tnership role
in corridor development.
A motion was made by Mm'k Stenglein, seconded by Bob Jolmson mad carried
unanimously to approve the 2004 legislative package as presented.
Commissioner Peter McLaughlin, Hennepin County, and Chair of the Metro
Transitways Development Board, reviewed the progress and status of the Hiawatha
LRT Line. He compared the Hiawatha Line with the successful rail line in Seattle,
Washington. Commissioner McLaughlin stated that the Northstar project is the top
priority for the Metro Transitways Development Board.
Bob Johnson, City of St. Cloud, requested clarification of "metro counties" relating to
the possible ½% sales tax to help fund the project. Bill Schreiber stated that, at the
current time, "metro counties" is defined as the seven county metro area, however, this
definition could change.
Gary Erickson presented an update on the construction progress of the Hiawatha LRT
line. The Hiawatha line is expected to open between downtown Minneapolis and Fort
Snelling in April 2004 with the rest of the line terminating at the Mall of America in
December, 2004. Members of the Authority expressed interest in scheduling a tour of
the Hiawatha Line. Gary Erickson will make the necessary arrangements.
o
Jeff Dehler, Anoka County, and John Himle, Himle Horner, Inc., reviewed a petition
addressed to Governor Pawlenty and Minnesota Legislators. The petition will be used
to communicate infbrmation about the Northstar Corridor and may be shared with
legislators and other elected officials to show support of the Northstar Commuter Rail.
This petition will be mailed to households in the corridor and is also available on the
NCDA website.
Copies of letters fi'om citizens supporting the project were distributed as well as
Resolutions from Pope County and the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Board of
Directors supporting funding and support for the Northstar Corridor Project. A copy
of the letters and Resolutions will be forwarded to Legislators.
DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Regular Meeting Minutes
October 2, 2003
Page 3
John Hilnle distributed business action ldits to members and requested that they use this
information when visiting businesses and citizens asking for their support by signing
the petition.
David Loch, notified members that on OCtober 21, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. "All Aboard" will
host a celebration at the new Sauk Rapids High School to promote and provide
information on the Northstar Corridor Rail. He encouraged attendance at this event to
show support of the project. The Governor and many Legislators are expected to
attend. The celebration is intended to be; an open forum providing a chance for the
public to make comments and ask questions.
A motion was made by Mark Stenglein, seconded by Patrick Cairns and carried
unanilnously to adjourn the meeting at 6i05 p.m.
The next meeting of the Northstar Corridor Development Authority is scheduled for
Thursday, November 6, 2003, at 4:30 p.m. at the Sherburne County Government
Center.
Duane Grandy, Chairperson
Date
H:\Admndara\Committees\Corridor NCDA\2003\Minutes\ 100203 NCDA Draft.doc
DRAFT LETTER
Memorandum of Understanding
Regarding Northstar Commuter Rail Negotiations
[DATE]
Duane Grandy ~'~
CN~ta'itlstar Corridor DevelopmenX~X~Authority ~
2100 Third Av.e~lu~e ~ ~
Anoka, MN 55o0o ~ ~
Oear 5
This le,er is intended to be a Me~,ora,~um of U~~ ~)e No,-thsta,-
Corridor Development
NolXhern Santa Fe Railway Company ("BN~F '). as~0C~~ Stat. ~ I ~.82. It is in
the best interest of both the St~ tl~np~ccusate
information on the range of costs and other isst rela~d to No~hstar's use of the BNSF rail line.
While it is not expected that tile NCDA nego
2004 Legislative Session, the State and the
xvith BNSF as soon as possible. It is und
negotiator has been retained and the Mt
updated inforlnation fi'om BNSF.
Pursuant to this
negotiations with BNSF to
issues related to Northstar's us
1. Secure tile services o
2. Enter into a contrac
3. Take the lead in n
Tile State will
negotiations.
co~npleted agreelnent with BNSF prior to the
tee that it is necessary to begin negotiations
~egotiations will commence once the
Group has received their requested
of Undel'standi0g, tI~NCDA is authorized to conduct
the issues regarding capac'i, tky improvements, costs, and other
the BNSF rail line. :The NC~.A will:
individual or firnl with expertis'ox)q negotiations;
pay for services performed by thisX4~ldividual or fit'm; and
negotiations with BNSF. %
BNSF that the NCDA has been attthorized to conduct these
Sincerely,
Carol Molnau
Corn missioner of Transportation
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
As approved at its meeting on November 6, 2003, the Northstar Corridor Development
Authority agrees to the terms and conditions of this Memorandum of' Understanding.
Duane Grandy. Chair
Dated:
Memorandum of Understanding
Between
The State of Minnesota and the Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Whereas Mirmesota Statutes, Section 174.82 provides that the Commissioner of the
Minnesota Department of Transportation (hereinafter "Mtn'DOT") is responsible for all
aspects of commuter rail in Minnesota. including ~egotiating with raih'oads;
Whereas Minnesota Statutes. Section 174.82 authorizes the Commissioner to enter into a
memorandum of understanding with a joint powers~ bom'd to carry out Mn/DOT's
responsibility for commuter rail;
Whereas Mn/DOT wishes to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the
Northstar Corridor Development Authority (hereinafter "NCDA") to conduct
negotiations on behalf of Mn/DOT with the Burli~gton Northern Santa Fe Railroad
(hereinafter "BNSF"); and
Whereas it is in the best interests of the State of Minnesota that negotiations with the
BNSF are begun as soon as possible;
Therefore pursuant to this memorandum of understanding, NCDA will:
1. conduct negotiations with the BNSF on behalf of the State of Minnesota to
narrow the issues relating to capacity improvements, costs and other issues
related to the Northstar Corridor Commuter Rails's use of the BNSF rail line;
2. secure the services of an individual or firm with expertise in negotiations;
3. submit weekly progress reports to Mn/DOT on the negotiations with BNSF;
and
4. seek approval fi'om Mn/DOT of any agreements with the BNSF relating to
commuter rail.
Pursuant to this memorandum of understanding, Mn/DOT:
1. will be available to participate in negotiations with the BNSF;
2. retains the right to approve all agreements for commuter rail with the BNSF;
and
3. will notify the BNSF that the NCDA has been authorized to conduct
negotiations with the BNSF on behalf of the State of Minnesota for the
Northstar Corridor Commuter Rail.
This memorandum of understanding is not a binding contract between Mn/DOT and the
NCDA. Either Mn/DOT or the NCDA may, upon written notice to the other party, amend
or discontinue its role, as outlined in this memorandum of understanding.
IN WITNESS THEREFORE the parties have caused this memorandum of
understanding to be duly executed intending to be bound thereby.
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
By:
Title: Chair
Date:
Minnesota Department of Transportation
By:
Title: Commissioner
Date:
2
MEMORANDUM
Date:
To~
From:
Subject:
NC, DA Executive Committee Agenda Item #4
NCDA Agenda Item #2c
October 31, 2003
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Staff
Selection of Consultant for Public Information Technical Services Consultant
Background
Public information work of the NCDA over the last several years has focused on raising
awareness and building support for the Northstar Commuter Rail Project. While this work will
continue through 2004, there is a need to re-engage the public in project development,
specifically in the consideration of additional stations in Ramsey and Sauk Rapids and in the
final design of the existing eleven station sites. The NCDA released a request for proposals
(RFP) for public information services on October 3, 2003, to hire a contractor to assist with
these tasks, as well as a brief survey of Northstar Commuter Coach riders and the preparation
and mailing of two corridor-wide newsletters. Note that these activities are included in the NCDA
2003-2004 budget and included in the scope of work tn the proposed grant agreement with
Mn/DOT.
Five firms responded to the RFP: Abbas Public Relations, Ilium Associates, Inc., LaBreche
Murray Public Relations, North Woods Advertising, Inc., URS Corporation. An evaluation team
was formed to evaluate the responses to the RFP. The team included the following members:
Tim Yantos, NCDA Project Director
Mike Schadauer, MN/DOT
Jeff Dehler, NCDA Public Relations
Mary Richardson, NCDA Administrative Team
Jan Lucke, RRA
Proposals were evaluated and scored based on the following criteria: experience of the
proposing firms, experience of personnel, work plan, cost, quality of response, disadvantaged
business enterprise (DBE) participation, and ability to meet contractual requirements.
Status
After reviewing the proposals received, the evaluation team selected Ilium Associates, Inc. and
North Woods Advertising, Inc. for interviews based on their experience, approach to the work
tasks, cost and DBE participation. Interviews are scheduled for Wednesday, November 5. Staff
will present a recommendation to the NCDA Executive Committee and the NCDA on November
6, 2003.
Northstar Corridor l~evelopment Authori~
2100 3'~ Avenue. Anoka, Minnesota 55303-2265 (763/ 323-5700 Fax: f763) 323-5682 www. northstartrain.org
Action Requested:
That the NCDA Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee
make a recommendation that the NCDA select a contractor and
authorize the Chair to negotiate and execute an agreement with
the contractor.
2
NCD,~ Agend~ Item #3
MEMORANDUM
Date: October 31, 2003
To: NCDA
From: Staff
Subject: Joint Station Area Development
Many commuter rail systems are using joint development to develop their station sites.
Joint development has been used to describe a variety of public-private partnerships. A
recent study by the Federal Transit Administration Transit Cooperative Research
Program (available at www.gulliver.trb.org/publications/tcrp/tcrp_rrd_52.pdf) provides
the following definitions:
"A public-private partnership designed to decrease the costs of operating or
constructing public transportation systems, stations or improvements through
creative public-private financing arrangements."
"Any formal agreement or arrangement between a public transit agency and a
private individual or organization that involves either private-sector payments to
the public entity or private sector sharing of capital costs in mutual recognition of
the enhanced real estate created by the siting of a public transit facility."
"Real estate transactions involving the development of private projects on
publicly owned land or air rights."
The Study continues to say that joint development is often a win-win proposition,
benefiting the developer "because the accessibility advantages of being near a transit
station are capitalized into higher rents or greater occupancy, and benefiting the public-
sector side through the sharing of construction costs, via cash payments, or potentially
even gains in ridership."
Northstar Corridor Developntent Authority
2100 3:~ Avenue, Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 (763) 323-5700 Fax: (763/323-5682 www.northstartrain.or.g
There are examples of joint development underway in Minnesota and in the Northstar
Corridor. Beverly Miller, Minnesota Valley Transit Authority, and John Feges, Ramsey
Town Center, will present to the NCDA an overview of how they define joint
development, how it is being used in local projects and the benefits of joint development
to the private and public sector organizations.
Action Requested: Presentation
MEMORANDUM
Date:
To:
From:
Subject:
November 6, 2003
NCDA Executive Committee Agenda Item
NCDA Agenda Item #2c
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Staff
Selection of Public Involvement Technical Services Consultant
Responses to the RFP for public involvement technical services were evaluated based on the
following criteria: experience of the proposing firms, experience of personnel, work plan, cost,
quality of response, disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) participation, and ability to meet
contractual requirements. Based on this criteria, the evaluation team selected i',idm Associates,
Inc. and North Woods Advertising, Inc. for interviews. The two firms were interviewed on
Wednesday, November 5, 2003. Based on the team's evaluation and the interview, the team is
recommending North Woods Advertising, Inc. be selected as the public involvement technical
services consultant.
Action Requested:
That the NCDA Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee
make a recommendation that the NCDA authorize the Chair to
finalize negotiations and execute a contract with North Woods
Advertising, Inc. for a contract term of November 6, 2003 through
December 31,2004 and a contract amount not to exceed
$245,285.
Northstar Corridor l}evelop/nent Authority
2t00 3': Avenue, Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 (763) 323-5700 Fax: (763) 323-5682 www.northsta[l:rain.org
MEMORANDUM
Date:
To:
From:
Subject:
NCDA Executive Committee Agenda Item #3
NCDA Agenda Item #2b
November 6, 2003
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Staff
Selection of Expert Negotiator
At its October 20, 2003 meeting, the Executive Committee considered the proposed
Memorandum of Understanding that would delegate to the NCDA the responsibility to negotiate
with the BNSF. The Executive Committee also directed staff to undertake a procurement
process to identify and recommend a potential negotiator to lead the negotiations over the next
four months. The Committee requested Councilman Paul Ostrow, Commissioner Mark
Stenglein, Paul McCarron, Tim Yantos, Ken Stevens and Mary Richardson to act as the
evaluation team.
The team identified five areas of expertise and qualifications, including:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
Extensive experience and recognized skills in negotiations;
Experience in complex business arrangements;
Reputation as respected and credible spokesperson with key policy-makers
Ability to work with a staff and consulting team; and
No conflicts of interest.
The evaluation team identified a list of ten potential candidates, narrowed the list using the
criteria listed above, and interviewed two candidates. The team recommends that the NCDA
retain Clifford M. Greene of the Greene Espel law firm. Mr. Greene has the necessary expertise
and qualifications to meet the NCDA's needs and is available to start work immediately. The
proposed contract amount is $100,000 and would include the services of Mr. Greene, an
associate, and a paralegal. The contract amount is within the 2003-2004 budget as approved
by the NCDA. Note that federal grant funds will not be used for this contract.
Action Requested:
That the NCDA Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee
make a recommendation that the NCDA authorize the Chair to
finalize negotiations and execute a contract with Greene Espel for
a contract term of November 6, 2003 through March 30, 2004 and
a contract amount not to exceed $100,000.
Northstar Corrido~ Development Authority
2100 3rd Avenue, Anoka, Minnesota 55303-2265 (763) 323-5700 Fax: (763) 323-5682 www. northstartrain.org
www. sctimes.com/)ocai
Local/State
Assistanl managing editor, Mike Knaak, 255-8747 St. Cloud Times · Monday, Oct. 20, 2003
'All Aboard' ralli
Group of Northstar supporters plans
'I\msday even t to launch ~uapaign
B,r Kit-st5 Mapohn
Dan Severson anti
Roland Fro)'en make
st ra nee politimM bedfd
But Ihe consem~ve s~te
lawmakcr from Sauk
82-mile Northstar rail line
from Rice to Minneapolis.
The 2.0 to 26 people who
regularly at-
tend bi-
monthly %4.11
Aboard~
Rapids and the environ~ meetings
mentalist former te;tcher of hope the ef-
L)mden 'l'owmhip have
found one thtngthey firm-
ly agree on: the need fin'
~n~lmuter rMI.
Sevem~n and Iffoyen are
p~tll of a ,ew gr~sroots of
ganizaLion promoting the
fort will
cmwage state R~p. Dan
lcgnslators to Se~ersan
8 ti p 1) 0 r t Suppurls
lkmding fnr Nodhstar
Nortbst~ n~ ~r.
"I think we've illustrated
that folks from all different
tmints of xdk~v eau ~work to-
geth~ on a common inter-
est," Froyen smd-
All Aboard kicks off ils
public campaign 'lXmsday
evening with a celebration
featuring music and speak-
ers. Participants will be
asked to sign a pedfion sup-
pordng the rail line sand to
join-a rally at the state Capi-
tol early next year.
.all Aboard was born af-
:er a DFL-sponsored
Noohsmr fontm last July in
St. Cloud. It now includes
business and labor repre-
sentatives, senior citizens
and members of the D.FL,
If you go ...
What: "All Aboard" cele-
bration to promole North-
star commuter rail.
When,, Doors open al
6 p.m. Tuesday for music,
refreshments and tours of
State
Chocolate compaay rebuilds
a-Prat train rolls into [hct()ly/2B
lB
for rail
the new school. Program
begins at 7 p.m.
Where: Sauk Rapids-
Rice High School.
Republic. an, Greem m~d In-
depea~dence parties, Froyen
said.
The group is not spon-
sored or funded by the
cities, counties and t¢mm-
ships along the corridor. All
Aboard has sought priwate
donations and has a
$4,000 budget, Froyen
· said.
Northstar suppmlers be-
lieve 2004. is a key year in
their efforts to get state
funding fi~r the $302 mil-
lion project.
"The goal is to get the
bonding through next leg-
islative session," said All
Aboard member Jim
Graeve of bt. Joseph.
In past years, the l~qpub-
Northstar Corridor Devel- licm~-eonu'olled ]louse h~s
opment Authority, tim or- been reluctant to back
ganization formed by th&
the cost. Gov. 'rih'~ Pawlen-
ty said he'll reserve judg-
ment on whether to sup-
port the project ~lntil he
sees an analysis from the
Feder'A Transit Admin
Lration.
Severson, a Sauk Rapids
Republican, said he hopes
~MI Ab.ard genre'ares Ioc;d
cntlmsiasm about the proj-
ect and attracts the atten-
tion of legislators in
Sk Paul.
"lt brings some aware-
ness do~m at the Capitol,
but it atto sho~ a skeptical
House that people along
the corridor are exalted
commuter rail because of about this," Severson ~aid.
Opinion
St. Cloud Times + Monday, Oct. 20, 2003
7B
We support
Northstar project
We strongly support the
Northstar Commuter Ra~l
project t~ Minneapolis.
We believe:
· The project is a acces-
ser), c~mponent to a multi-
modal transportation sys-
· It is an outstanding op-
portunity to provide jobs
a~d economic growth to ali
commtmitiea within the
corddor.
m It is essential m reduc-
ing congestion on the
fmtest-growing corridor in
the state - U.S. Highway
10 and Interstate Highway
94.
· It is beneficial to the
environment by reducing
the number of vehicles ~ud
vehicle emissions.
We understand the proj-
ect has the support of
chambers of commerce,
unions, senior citLzens, col-
lege communities, environ-
mental groups, veterans,
handicapped people, ci~,
county and township gov-
ernments, and thousands of
Minnesotans.
We encourage people
to a~end a rally tbr the proj-
ect st 7 p.m. Tuesday at
Sank I~pids-Rice High
School.
Northstar commuter rail
is a viable solution t~ pres-
ent and furore transporta-
tion needs in Central Min-
We urge Gov. Tim Paw-
lenty to voice his support in
f~,vor of this critical trtms-
portation project.
Rep. Jim Knoblach
St. Cloud
Rep Joe Opatz
St. Cloud
Rep. Dan Seversou
8auk lhn.pids
Erin Oberfeid
15369 258th Ave.
Zimmerman, MN 55398
October 17, 2003
Dear Commuter Rail:
My life would be very impacted, because my husband and I are only 24, and
could not afford to buy a nice home close to the Twin Cities. We could
afford a home out there though, but I work downtown Mp!s. That is a two
hour commute per day for me, and it would take away so much stress in my
life to not have to fight with traffic anymore. I would also be able to
have more family time. That is the most important, more family time.
Sincerely,
Erin Oberfeld
Letter received by the NCDA - October 1, 2003
Janet Stavros
2746 21st Ave. South
St. Cloud, MN 56301
October 1, 2003
Dear Commuter Rail:
Rail commutor service between St. Cloud and Minneapolis is the best
alternative to building more highways which only serve to perpetuate
dependence on gas, increase pollution, and destroy more undeveloped land.
We need fewer cars on highways rather than more. Adding to the highway
system does nothing for people who do not or can not drive (handicapped,
blind, elderly, poor, etc.) It is way past time we get serious about the
ongoing problem of too many cars on the road and no alternative
transportation.
Sincerely,
Janet Stavros
>>> "Kenneth Schulz" <kbschulz@uslink.net> 10/11/03 06:57PM >>>
Kenneth Schulz
985 Juliet Way
Avon, MN 56310
October 5, 2003
Dear Commuter Rail:
Since we are both retired, we feel that the Northstar Commuter Rail would
allow us to travel to the Twin Cities for a number of functions. We enjoy
Twins games but the traffic and parking situation is a problem. It would
be great to be able to get to the dome and not worry about traffic or
parking and simply enjoying the game and getting back on the rail service
to go home. We would also use the rail service to go to the Mall of
America and to the airport.
Sincerely,
Ken & Betty Jane Schulz
MEMORANDUM
Date: October 31,2003
To: NCDA
From: Staff
Subject: Hiawatha Tour
Agenda Item #5
A tour of the Hiawatha LRT Corridor for NCDA members has been tentatively set for
December 4, 2003. The tour will begin at the Metro Transit Operations Maintenance
Facility located at 1810 E Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis. The tour will begin at 1:30
p.m. and end at approximately 4:00 p.m. NCDA members will tour the Hiawatha LRT
Operations and Maintenance Facility, observe on-track testing of the Light Rail Vehicle
(LRV) which includes riding the LRV and take a bus tour of the Hiawatha LRT Line.
The December NCDA meeting will immediately follow the tour but it will be brief due to
Truth in Taxation Hearings.
Bus transportation to Minneapolis for the tour will be provided. Members can catch the
bus at the Riverdale Park and Ride at 1:00 p.m. If you are planning on riding the bus,
please contact Sue Youngs at 763-323-5729.
If you cannot attend the tour/meeting, please contact Peggy Aho at 651-222-7227.
Action Requested: Information
Northstar Corridor Development Authori~.
2 lO0 3'" Avenue, Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 (763) 32%5700 Fax: (763) 323-5682 www.northstartrain.org
MEWItO/STATE * Sw m u. -'P EBa
· .2003 -
group assails Northstar Rail figures
he legislators
x used proponents
the commuter
"ae of lying about
s bottom line.
'C-nrad deFieb~e
~ =r TrilmneSmffWri~r '
~. Proponents of a commute*
it transl! link from Ihe St.
and area Ia Minneapolis
rye deliberatetI underesti-
amd i~ cost- now pegged
$310 milUon -- in an effo~t '
win public support, iegisla-
alleged Man-
opponents
~ *Tt's gej~ ~ al over again,
c~ icl 1~.: Phil Kdnlde, B-Shore-
r~ ew~ i~kening the No~dtatar
~ fi plantothe $715 millinn Hi-
r-- ,rathe Light Rail project now
nder construction,' whose
~sts have risen by at least $Z~3
c~dllion from origins! esti-
Id_ ~ates, "This project will cost
trer $500 million by the time
~ get all lee true costs,"
Northstar response ctshtp projections to- Pawlenty
rellecting inflation and the
gDO{) U.S. Census, Yantos said.
The odginal proposal, subnfit-
ted in ZOO0, was ca~efully scm-
tinized by federal officials, giv-
en a high national rating and
included in President
2002 budget, he added.
The rail link makes sense,
Yantos said, because the popu-
lation along the corridor is
growing rapidly. That growth is
causing serio~t$ congestion on'
Interstate Hwy. 94 and Hwy.
10, the two main mutes file rail
line woald suppJemel]t. The
toads me not scheduled to be
. An official with the project,
however, denied that the nam-
bets had been manytdated,
At a State Capitolnews con-
ference, Krinkie, slx other Re-
publican legislators and a lead-
er o[: the Taxpayers League of
MLrmesota fired the flu'st volley
in what is expected m be a bat-
fie over transportation spend-
il~ in the 20Q4 Lel~at~e. The
lq o~thstaf projecl, wl~ch would
use existing t~acks owned by
Btalington Northern Santa Fe
Raibr~ray, bas been blocked for
years By opposition from
House Republicans, but GnP
Gay. Tim Pawlenty has sig-
naled a willingness to recon-
sider the line if it is sho~,m to be
cost-effective.
The critics we{e armed
Monday with a new Burlington
Northern Santa Fe cost esti-
mate for t~ack and signal im-
p{0~emenls needed for Ihe
t~ansit link; they also cited a
2002 Danish stady maintaining
that steep cost overruns ate
common on government rail
peoject$ worldwide and m~y,
ia the study's wo~l~, 'be best
explained by strategic misrep-
resentation, i.e., lying,'
The railroad said the tm-
prn~ements would cost $136
million in 2005, the earliest
time ~at cona~uction could
stol, That ia-mole ~ ~
~e $57 m~on b~ ~at p~ of
lhe p~oject quoted by the
Horthstar Co~:id0r Develop-
m~t ~ori~ M iu propos~
m ~e F~e*~ %msit Ad~s-
~atiam
~e amy n~be{s we
count ae ~e ones [BurHn~on
No.em S~m Fei ~ si~
on/' smd Sezt Mady R~ter,
Sh~, a former employee
of the railroad. 'We cannot
foxce ~e l~road lo eat
increased costs of pro~di~
~ ne~st boondo~e."
Dasd Strum of ~e
e~ ~a~e s~ the No~st~
amhe{ity has known of rail-
road estimates much hi.er
~an its o~ fu~ yes{s..
Z5O p~cent oaps ~ j~st ~e
df many camln~ down the
a long se~es old.epilog."
But an executive of the
Not.star authority, a coalition
of 30 local governments along
the proposed tiansit route, said
the discrepancy reflects a
tough negotiation, not an at.
tempt 1:o deceive anyone.
'¢~t~e have never cooked the
numbers," said Tier Yantos,
Northstar project director.
'We're trying to protect the
public, doing a~ goad ajob of
negotiating as we can. The rat[-
mad woMd like as man)' im-
provements to their track as
theT can gel. You can't blame
them for that.~
The railxoa[! has said it will
not settle the sluw-mo~ing
talks until state funding for the
project is secured. ~acker$ a~e
hoping for legislative approval
next year a! $124 million in
borrowing to pay the stale
shale of the cost, The ~est
woMd be borne by {be federal
and local governments.
Next month, the Northstar
authority and the Minnesota
D~pazl~enl of Transportation.
will present new cost a6d fid-
-dpgraded far decades and add- ~ '
-ing lanes would cost several
thnes the price of the Nortl~tax
project, he said.
Sen. Don Betzold, DFL-
FrMI~, sponso~ of the No~la-
sta~ funding bill, branded the
accusations o! lying about
costs '~£e.~pon.~ible." He also
expressed confidence that
Paw[only and the DFL~con-
I:olled Senale will back the
p~ject. 'q'he real Ruesfion is;
'What aboul the HouseV" he
Stat Trlbtme ma
' said.
Krinkie heads the Hous~
Capital Investment Commil;'
tee, which x'fields control
slate I~r[awin~. lie aa.id that
he is sat~ied the pmj~ct.x~ll
reduce cenge.~fion at a reason-
able cost core, amd with other
solutions, ~I d be willing
support
-;:' ..
Police said thst I1 suspects
have been arrested and that
nine others will probably be
tO~ said the ol~ration us. zn'....~Iuded the' c~a~ Of .a. p
effo~ W "~ o~ step ~ead of ~ M~es ~m a ~
· e ~g d~l~' ~d ~ ~s~pp~h~~ ' h
~ by n~borhood ~m- ~ ~ s~oo~ H~n ~
, .. _. MINNESOTA,
· . NORTHSTAR PROJECT
'i ,.Estimates for planned rail line double
Track owner puts repairs at $136 million
BY BILL SALISBURY
P~oneer Press
The railcoad that owns ~e
#
sawhorse763-533-1010.com
Monday e.~Jmnted it would
need $136 million tll new ~rae. ks
and other capful ~provements
to handle the new passenger
trains. That's more than double
the cost that proponents pro-
ject~ severn] y~rs
Opponcnts of the Northstzr
r~ line betweea If~meapol~ and
St Cloud ~eized on t~e. Burlt~g.
ton Northern S~nta Fe Rallw~s
projeefs ~portee~ of
CORRECTION NOTICE
The Red Tag Sale Ad For 3 Days only take 35%
Coifs regularly priced carpet cleaning service
ran in error on Monday 11/03/03. We apologize for
any inconvenience this may have caused.
Northstar-line foes said supporters
intentionally underestimated the price tag.
ly low-balling the ~ tag
But a Northstar spokesman
said the cr~cs were comparb3g
apples a~d orange~, and a rep-
reseatative of Gov. Tim Pawlea-
ty's 3~irdstralio~ agreed.
Sen. Mady ~r, R-$hore-
view~ said at a C~pitol nt-w~ con-
fercnce that thc Northstar Cor-
ridor Development AuthoriW
had est~nated the U~ck could
be upgraded for $57 million. She
sugge~ the proponents delib-
erately underestimated the
eos~ to win lel~]ative approval
Rep. ~ Krir~.'e, R-Shore-
view, likened the NorthStar proj-
ect to the Hiawatha light-rail
l~e under constructi~ in Mia-
neapol~ and Bloomingto~L In
1~9, l~ght-mfl backers predict~
that lme would eos~ $446
but ~e actual prke will exceed
$716 miH~o~, he said. %et's not
m~e ~at same intstake agar.
~ut Tini Yantos,
Oo~ridor proje~ manager, said
· e ~57 milh'on figure is aa %1~,
outdated number that was
on some very, very prelffolnary
dis~on~.' He ~akl they nO
longer ~se that figure. Burl~g-
ton N01~efl~'l'h~nl~
more ~rack and ~ improve-
ments nccd to be n~de than the
Nor~t~ Corridor authority
proj ec~d ]~ore 2om, he ~
Northern and the NCDA ha~e
long been know~" said Robert
Mc~trlia a,~t to state Tram-
portatio~ Comm~sioner and Lt.
Gov, Carol MoMau. "The num~
~ ~x]ay doe~'t make the
apparent than they were before,'
The railroad and the devel-
opment authority have honest
differences of opinion OVer what
t~a~k improvements need to be
made if the project proceeds,
McFarlin said. "'We have ~o
resolve those differences,"
~awiea~ is expected to decide
by eady next year whether h~
b~e~e~ tt~ Noz~star r~ project
wo~d be ~ c~.~ve way to
reii~we f;~ffi¢ congestion ~ t~e
Inter.re 94 corridor. If he con.
dudes it is, he v/al ask ~he 20~
LegLqature to help ft~d it
a~ bsalisbury@pionecrpress.¢om
or 051-225-5538-
I sSO0 Per Person Show l)iseount !
I ~ fera l~e Alaska Cnd~Te~r $a900 valae '
£0'd ZI:9I ~0, 9
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Special Sections
Election 2003
R~ycling 2003
Ceansus 2000
Central Minnesota local news for 4 November, 2003
4 November, 2003
House committee chaiman questions
Northstar rail's cost
Kirsti Marohn
Staff Writer
ST. PAUL -- A key lavauaker claimed Monday that proponents of Northstar
commuter rail have low-balled the project's true cost to win support for state
funding.
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Rep. Phil Krinkie, chairm~ of thc House Capittl Investment Committee,
called a news conference in St. Paul with other House Republicans opposed
to coramuter rail. Krinkic will compile the 2004 House bonding bill, which
Northstar supporters hope will include money for their project.
Krinkie, R-Shoreview, said Monday's message was that complete and
accurate numbers are needed before deliberations can start on whether the
project is worth it.
He cited an Oct. 24 letter from Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway,
which owns the railroad between Rice and Minneapolis. The letter to a
Minnesota Depar~ent of Transportation official estimates the cost to
upgrade the tracks and signals will be $144 million in 2007.
MnDOT has estimated the cost for improvements at $60 million, said Mike
Schadauer, project manager. MnDOT's budget also includes a $40 million
confingmcy, he said. MnDOT is still negotiating with BNSF.
Northstar supporter Sen. Dave Kleis, R-St. Cloud, said Krlnkie's cri~cism
should have waited until the Federal Transit Administration completes a
report on North~tar's costs and benefits later this year. Gev. Tim Pawlenty
requested the FTA report and said he will use it to decide whether to support
the project.
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Kinne
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HealthPa!
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http://miva.sctimes.com/miva/cgi-bin/m/va?CMN/Locab'read.mv+20031 ! 04150806+8+ 11/04/2003
170'd 8I:9'[ £0, 9 ,".ON E,89<:S-':;'~Si:-g'9.,,-6:xe._-I Xll'~O3 U),iBNU
T-SSS P. 02/04
IC. sthy ?in~el~tltd
A~i~hmt IMinrity Whip
C~on Rap~ls and Andovef
Minnesota
House of
Representatives
COMMII'rEE~I; VICE.C~AIR EN¥1FrO~MENT MID NATURAL RE.~:X.IRC~5 FINANCE; CAPITAL, ~NVESTME~T.
ENvIRONMEI~T AND NATURed. R~$1~CE~ POI.ICY, I~UL.E~ A~O i. EG~-~TIVE AJ~MIINI~J'('~A'FIObJ
November 5, 2D03
Representative Phil Krini~e
-~65 ~mt~ Offic~ Building
St, Paul, MN 55155
Senator Mad¥ Reiter
132D State Offi=e Building
St. Paul, MN 55155
David Strom, Executive Direc. tor
Taxpayers Lea~}ue of Min~,eso~a
One Carlson Pa~way. Suite 120
Plymouth, MN 55,~7
On November 3, you held a preSS conference accusing suppor~em of [~e
No~bs~r C~mmu~r ~il p~e~ of hiding t~ mai ~ of ~ck ~n~ signal
~pr~eme~ (mm ~ publi~, ~fi~ the ~nt d~emn~s Oe~en ~e
BudinQ~n No.em ~ Fe (BN5F) railroad a~ the No~r ~rddor
~v~pment Authofi~ (NCDA) as ev~en~ of d~epfion.
As the House chief author of Northstar Commuter Rail, I am offended that you
woukl recklessly accuse colleagues in this manner.
I cio Know nat polific~ can someames be a contac~ spot, an~ legislature a~
io~yis~ ~o op~se ~ngeGt~ ro!i~ will ~metim~ es~late ~ne rhe~ric to
g~ a ~icK ~aQli~. But ~e~ k ~m~ m the ~nhs~r pm~e~, and ~e
~nfinu~ deba~ w;th BN~F ov~ ~e ~ of infra~u~um ~ptovemen~, I ~ave
~c qu~;o~ for you:
Haven't you been paying attention to this issue fro' the last four year=?
(continued)
cjo 'ti 6~: 95 £0, 9 ^ON ~89~-£~£-£9Z-6:x~3 ,X, ll'~03 U>IONI:I
Nor. S, hie 2
in my experier~ce in the I_egislature, no sir~gle transportation project has received
as muctl scrutiny prior to a legislative clecisk3r~ man Northstar Commuter Rail.
This project has been at the center of the transportation funding and bonding
d~scusslons for me past two sessions, and received hearings and extensive
debate for at least two sass[ohS ptior to that. Unlike many transit and highway
projects. Northstar Commuter Rail truly has received extensive debate regarding
its cost-effectiveness and the benefits Iii(ely to be realized by ~e State.
Continued negotiations with BNSF are critical to clarify the capital co~s. BNSF
I~as opera!ecl in 9oocl faitt~ thrOulal~0u! ~[$ process - they are tough negotiators.
After all, no rail company is likely to reach a final agreement until both sides know
the final engineerin~ results, the likely constructinn date for t~e project and the
total amount of funding available for improvements. The NCDA has also
c~pecatecl itl goocl fei!lq, tqas Cleveiopecl a cost estimate based on proliminary
engineering, artcl lies built in a substantial c~¢~in~lency budget. The two cost
~timat~$ represent me range or parametem o! tl~e upcoming negotia~ns that
must take place now to close the 9ap and identify the necessae/ improvements
lo me railrOad.
Each year, representatives of tl~e NCDA Ilave testified before legi..C,,lative
comr~ittees on the progress of BN~F dlscuss,ons. Tills past sessior~, at me
urging of Governor Pawlent¥, the Minnesota Leg;sis!ute directed MnDOT and trio
NCDA to form a working group to review the Key outstanding issues regaling
Northstar, including issues with BNSF.
L~eutenant Govsmor Carol Moinau, in her role as Transportation Commissioner,
ask, ecl tl~e NCDA to manage the next phase of discussions with BNSF. The
NCDA is currently retaining Drofessional counsel to n~otia~e with BNS~: and
pro!ecl the interests of lhe State of M;~nesota, ~e taxpayers and tile 30 local
anita of government that constitute the NCDA. By January 1§, 2004, the NCDA
and BNSF are expectecl to have narrowed ~l~e outstancling issues anti provide a
report to the Governor and the Legislatuee on their progress.
Your opposition [o Norths.uar Commuter Rail is well ¢o~umentecl, and I
,,nclerstand that even aft.~r e ~ccessfu~ ageeemen[ wi~ BNSF, you are unlikely
to change your position. So ~vhat is ~ plan tg relieve eo~lge~tlen in the
Northstar corridor?
Thus far, no one has disputes !list:
Rapid bus transit would cost nearly 60% more to bt4ilCl arid operate
over the next 15 years tttan NOrthstar, and that assume~ tlqat
clown[own Minneapolis can hancl]e more buses on tlqeir congested
rush hour streets
90'd 0~,:9'[ £0, 9 ^oN ~:89S-£~:<;'-£9Z-6:xeJ AINI"I03 U;>IONU
I?;~4 I~r=m-NOU;I; Ol: Ifl;l:~ {~E1~1177523 T-~E5 P.{14/04 t:-Illl?
Nov. 5, l~a~e 3
· Capacity upgrades m Highway 10 would co=t over twice as much as
commuter rail, yet there is no financing for a Higrtway 10 cap~,city
project in the 20-year MnDOT plan
. Northstar Corntnuter Rail can be operational ir~ four years, moving
people Ix~th direc~o~.s w'¢hin ~e corridor between ~c. Cloud and the
Twirt Cities
You previously have stated a pceferenee fOr more hi§l~way~, but I would aslq
what new highway furlding ~4~urces are you willing to propose or, conversely.
which specie rtighway projects currently on the MnDOT acnedute am you willing
to kill in order t~ fund a heady $1 billion highway capacity improvement for tllie
corridor?.
YOU seem willing to tell the thousancts ~ residents of ~. Cloud. Backer, Elk
River, Coon Rapicts and dozens of other communities in tl'~e Northstar corri0or
that c~nge~tion relief can wait for another decade or twa. My constituents and 1
cannot wait. Tl~e corM~lor between St. Cloua aha me Twin cl~ias Is vitally
importar~t to supporting continuecl economic and population growth for our region
and slate. This is a good problem to have, but we need tc~ move people thrOu~tl~
this corridor more quickly. Noc~J1e~at Commuter Rail i~ Se mos[ cost effec41ve,
an(t tile l~e~t way of accompfishiflg thim goal.
$1ncer=ly.
Kathy Tingelstad /
State Representatrve
House District 49B
Governor Tim Paw~ent7
Lieutenant Goverr~r CarOl Molt~au
Meml~em of the Minn,,ma House of Representatives
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