Agenda - Economic Development Authority - 12/08/2011

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Resolution of Initial Support for the Mississippi River Trail bicycle route Whereas, the Mississippi River is well known throughout America and the world, Whereas, the hills, trees and waters centered upon the Mississippi River are quite beautiful to residents and tourists alike; Whereas, the Mississippi River has served through time as a corridor of exploration, travel, and settlement, Whereas, the Mississippi River is a corridor of great natural significance and importance within Minnesota and America; Whereas, the Mississippi River Trail is a bicycle route that offers an opportunity for extraordinary adventure along the entire river from the Headwaters in Lake Itasca State Park in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. Whereas, the Mississippi River Trail relies exclusively on existing highway shoulders, low - volume paved roads and paved recreational trails, Whereas, the route will likely evolve and improve as road improvements are made and suitable paved recreational trails become available. Whereas, the Mississippi River Trail will generate additional economic activity within Mississippi River host communities; Whereas, a continuous string of local resolutions of support for the Mississippi River Trail will strengthen individual and collective funding requests for projects that protect, enhance or promote resources that enrich the traveler's experience; Whereas, even though the Minnesota Department of Transportation will continue to maintain statewide mapping and infotrnation regarding the Mississippi River Trail, convene meetings and facilitate the resolution of issues and alignment selection within the State, the Mississippi River Trail will be managed collaboratively by all road and trail authorities that comprise the trail; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that supports the collective efforts of the Minnesota Department of Transportation and other road and trail authorities that comprise the Mississippi River Trail and will participate in ongoing collaborative discussions, and in matters of a general nature regarding the operation and location of the Mississippi River Trail within its administrative boundaries. (MnDOT 10/20111)