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Governor Pawlenty - "The Time is Right for Northstar"
 Since he first declared his support in February 2004, Gov. Tim Pawlenty has made Northstar a top priority and continues to be one of the project's most committed advocates. On April 11, 2005, Gov. Pawlenty signed into law an $886 million bonding bill, which included $37.5 million in funding for Northstar Commuter Rail.
Since that time, the Governor and his administration have continued to be actively involved in the project's advancement.
Overwhelming Legislative Support
The 2005 Minnesota Legislature sent a clear message that Northstar has established bipartisan,
statewide support. Members voted overwhelmingly in favor of funding that will help make Northstar the state's first commuter rail service. Votes in favor of funding Northstar came from every political party and region of the state.
The level of support for Northstar during the 2005 session is a positive sign that Northstar will secure
passage of the final piece of state funding in 2006.
 "Funding Northstar is a critical investment in the future of our state. This year's success was a big step forward, and I look forward to gaining complete funding for Northstar in 2006."
- Sen. Don Betzold (DFL - Fridley)
Chief author of Northstar legislation in the Senate |
 "Northstar is on the right track to delivering a long-awaited transportation alternative to
residents of the Northstar Corridor. We've already got the train rolling, so it will be hard to stop."
- Rep. Kathy Tingelstad (R - Andover)
Chief author of Northstar legislation in the House |
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