Discuss Highway 10 Corridor Support/ Funding

The City received communication from Anoka County Commissioner Matt Look relating to the Highway 10 Corridor.  Commissioner Look reports that the County is planning a trip to Washington, D.C. to meet with our local delegation as well as Congressman Shuster, Chair of the Transportation Committee.  The trip is being planneed for March 6-7.

Both the  cities of Anoka and Ramsey have been invited to join Anoka County in sending a delegation to Washington.  I have spoken to the Anoka City Manager and he stated that their Council will be considering a proposal to send the mayor and two staff people on this trip. 

Mr. Look also requested adoption of a resolution by both cities of the proposed plan to show corridor support.  This resolution of support is on the consent agenda for approval this evening.

Anoka County employees lobbyists in Washington, D.C. that are working on federal funding for the Highway 10 project.  The City has made several trips to Washington in recent years in an effort to secure funding.  These efforts have not been successful, but Congress has not passed major transporation funding in recent years.  The City wants to be in a position to secure a portion of any funding that may move forward.

This is a descrectionary expenditure that will assist the City in its efforts to secure funding for a high priority capital project.  Sending one person or not sending anyone is an option.

Staff recommends sending a delegation of at least two individuals (Mayor and City Administrator) to join Anoka County and the City of Anoka to Washington to secure funding for the Highway 10 project.

The estimasted cost to send 2-3 people is $2-3,000 for the two day trip.  If approved, it is recommended that funds be allocated from the Council contingency.

Staff recommends sending a delegation of at least two individuals to join Anoka County and the City of Anoka to Washington to secure funding for the Highway 10 project.