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AL FRANKEN sulit <br /> N-MNE SO t A SH-30 <br /> 282-224-5611 <br /> Untud Mates senate <br /> WASHINGTON,OC 20510-2309 <br /> February 2, 2015 <br /> Mr. Lewis Grimm <br /> Eastern Federal Lands Access Program <br /> Federal Highway Administration <br /> 21400 Ridgetop Circle <br /> Sterling,VA 20166 <br /> Re: Federal Lands Access Program—connecting the Northstar Rail Station to the NPS <br /> Mr. Grimm: <br /> As you may know, I am a proponent of transit due to the beneficial effects in job <br /> creation, revitalizing domestic manufacturing,and alleviating congestion,all while <br /> improving air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We, through the Federal <br /> Lands Access Program(FLAP), have an opportunity to add considerable value to the <br /> existing Northstar Commuter Rail Line, with operations between the Twin Cities and Big <br /> Lake, Minnesota with connections to the Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport. <br /> The City of Ramsey is applying for FLAP funding to provide a direct,elevated <br /> pedestrian connection between the Northstar Rail Station and the Mississippi National <br /> River and Recreation Area(MNRRA).This will add ridership through improved access <br /> from the opposite side of U.S. Hwy's#10&#169,and in doing so,address the benefits <br /> above. Perhaps more importantly,this will enhance access to MNRRA by linking all the <br /> Twin Cities' metro transit systems to this park. <br /> The 21 st century economy requires investment in transportation and infrastructure <br /> systems that are integrated and that increase mobility for people. A stellar example of <br /> this, is the proposed Mississippi Skyway which is explicitly included in MNRRA's <br /> Alterative Transportation Plan as a High Priority project. For all of the reasons above, <br /> encourage your strong consideration of this proposal. If you have any questions or need <br /> additional information, please contact Lisa Fobbc at 320-251-2721 or by email at <br /> lisa_fobbe@frankerLsenate.gov. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> Al Franken <br /> United States Senator <br /> Y WW.PHANKEN.SENATE.GOV <br />