DID YOU KNOW ?…….

 

·        The SW recreational trail is being considered for light rail transit (LRT).

 

·        Hennepin County hired URS for $400,000 to study converting the trail to light rail.

 

·        It will cost $50,000,000 (fifty million dollars) per mile to lay the track.  Total project costs may exceed $1,000,000,000 (one billion dollars).  Every $ spent on LRT is a $ less for road improvements and bus service. 

 

·        After conducting its study, URS will also be allowed to bid on the construction.  A conflict of interest?

 

·        Currently tax payer dollars subsidize $2.95 per ride on SW Metro buses.  Estimated taxpayer subsidies for light rail are almost $40.00 per ride.

 

·        There are approximately 2,000 riders / day on SW metro buses  -yet estimates for LRT exceed 20,000 riders / day.    This equals $80,000 a day in subsidies !?!?!?!?

 

·        There is a volunteer group, TRAILS  WITHOUT  RAILS,  trying to preserve the trail.

 

OUR GOALS :

 

·        Dialogue with elected officials on responsible spending of our money on transit, education and social programs.

 

·        Obtain an accurate study reflecting the opinions in the SW metro regarding transit and recreational trails.

 

·        Gain assurance that alternative routes along existing transit corridors are studied.

 

·        Preserve the SW trail for recreational use only.

 

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP….

 

·        Complete our survey.

 

·        Write or call your representatives

 

·        Get involved – browse the web site to find ways to show support.

 

·        Buy a yard sign for $30 or simply make a donation to Trails Without Rails