CCARL Meeting with MnDOT

A meeting will take place on Tuesday, February 16th from 5:30-7:30 pm at Urland Lutheran Church, 6940 County 9 Boulevard in Cannon Falls. The purpose for the meeting will be to provide the public to speak, ask questions, and express concerns regarding the current status of the ZipRail passenger, nonstop high-speed rail project. The project intended to place a high-speed rail option along the Highway 52 corridor from Rochester to St. Paul. The meeting on the 16th will continue the discussion between property owners, citizens and MnDOT Commissioner Charlie Zelle. Senator Matt Schmit will facilitated the public meeting. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to find out what will happen to the monies spent now that MnDOT has officially suspended the project while retaining the right to revive it again sometime in the future. Monies spent to advance the project would have resulted in an Environmental Impact Statement, but the decision to shelve plans now, removes the ability for the public to have the opportunity to officially comment. Members of Citizens Concerned About Rail Lines (CCARL) have continued to inform local residents about the impact this project may have should it continue now or in the future. For more information, contact Barbara Stussy by email- barbstussy@hcinet.net.