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but it keeps the momentum moving in the same direction. He supported pushing the $5 million <br />rail crossing and Anoka County's proposals. <br />Councilmember Shryock stated with Ramsey continually being proactive, it makes Ramsey more <br />attractive for funding because the City- is making the plans and buying the properties to move <br />things forward. <br />Mr. Tinklenberg stated that when considering how construction occurs on grade separations, it <br />may make sense to go after $10 million for both rail crossings and then combining with County <br />money to construct both at the same time. He encouraged the Council to consider that the `door <br />has been opened' in terms of building a working relationship with Congressman Emmer who has <br />indicated his interest. Mr. Tinklenberg commented on the benefit of encouraging Congressmen <br />Emmer and Nolan to work together in partnership for their respective districts. He stated there is <br />also opportunity to go after rail crossing safety money because it is being looked at in <br />Washington (federal level) as well. <br />City Administrator Ulrich asked if there is preference for seeking funding for one or two rail <br />crossings. <br />Mr. Tinklenberg stated he thinks it will increase the chances of getting funding because if not <br />successful in getting both, there is a better chance of getting funding for one. In addition, the <br />State money would leverage this package so it would work well and have real merit. <br />Councilmember Kuzma supported increasing the bill to $10 million for two rail crossings. <br />Councilmember Johns stated because the rail crossing money is separate, it is all the more reason <br />to look at both projects at the same time. She noted it will also help with economic development. <br />Councilmember Williams stated it was mentioned by Councilmember Shryock that Ramsey is an <br />attractive recipient for funding because of the work it is doing. She asked if Anoka County is <br />also an attractive recipient for funding. <br />Mr. Tinklenberg stated Ramsey is an attractive recipient for many reasons, noting the funding for <br />Armstrong Boulevard included Corridor Investment Management Strategy (CIMS) money that <br />indicated this is an important corridor, giving it Mn/DOT recognition. It also got Transportation <br />Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) money, giving it federal recognition. That <br />established Ramsey as a good place to work and the business community has also stepped <br />forward. He noted the City has been clear and its communication has been effective, which was <br />demonstrated at the event when the Governor and Commissioner were in attendance. Mr. <br />Tinklenberg noted other sections of the corridor have not positioned themselves in the same way. <br />Councilmember Riley asked if it is his professional recommendation to ask for $10 million for <br />two crossings instead of $5 million for one crossing. <br />Mr. Tinklenberg answered in the affirmative and stated he thinks Mn/DOT and BNSF will also <br />support doing both crossings at once rather than dealing with two disruptions on its line. <br />City Council Work Session / March 10, 2015 <br />Page 8 of 11 <br />