Agenda - Council - 05/14/2013 - Laserfiche WebLink

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1. Improve and enhance the visitor experience by integrating and enhancing opportunities for transportation, recreation, education, and scenic enjoyment along the Mississippi River. 2. Provide access to the MNRRA for everyone and integration with surrounding transportation systems. 3. Integrate MRT with area transit and trails to increase visitation to MNRRA without increasing congestion. 4. Establish a transportation system to and within the MNRRA that preserves, enhances, and interprets natural and cultural resources. 5. Promote development of environmental, economic, and socially adaptable and sustainable transportation and recreational facilities. Because the Mississippi Skyway meets each of these goals and, as we anticipate the project ranking high within the ATP process — we strongly encourage the Metropolitan Council to partner with us on this progressive plan. TOD funding will advance this important project to one that is truly `shovel ready', strengthening the likelihood that the region is successful in receiving Federal funding for this unique connection between transit and trails, a regional park system, the MISS, the retail support services of the COR, the 3,000 mile MRT, and the recreational and tourism destination of our world -renown river. The National Park Service looks forward to working with the Metropolitan Council, City of Ramsey, and multiple partners to complete the multi -modal system supporting the Mississippi West Regional Park, the MRT and the MISS. Collaboration on critical elements like the Mississippi Skyway will be the `bridge' to achieving mutual goals for recreation, alternative transportation; while spurring economic development by building infrastructure necessary for sustainable, regional tourism. Sincerely, /s/ Paul Labovitz Superintendent