| For Immediate Release | For more information contact: |
| February 25, 2002 | Shannon Robinson (651-296- 5989) |
ST. PAUL State Representative Rich Stanek (R-Maple Grove) has introduced legislation that would help solve the transportation crunch in the northwestern Twin Cities. Stanek is requesting $30 million in bonding funds to complete the construction of Highway 610 into four lanes between I-94 and Highway 169.
"The completion of this project will allow Highway 610 to be a very important link in the trunk highway network in the Twin Cities area," said Stanek. He explained that once Highway 610 is upgraded to a four-lane capacity, there will be a freeway connection through the northern metro that will drastically reduce congestion on I-694 through the northwestern suburbs.
"Along with easing commuter traffic in general, the Highway 610 project also has numerous benefits for local Maple Grove residents and businesses," Stanek said. "Traffic will be reduced on our local roadways, increasing safety for our neighborhoods. A freeway between 169 and
I-94 will also provide a quick and direct route for people in communities such as Brooklyn Park, Coon Rapids, and Blaine to travel to Maple Grove and take advantage of our growing commercial base of stores and restaurants."
Stanek's bill, House File 3302, has been referred to the House Transportation Finance Committee.
If you would like to contact Rep. Stanek about this issue, he can be reached by mail at 543 State Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155; by phone at (651) 296-5502; or by e-mail at rep.rich.stanek@house.leg.state.mn.us. If you would like periodic updates on the legislative session, you can visit Rep. Stanek's official House website at www.house.mn/33B and click on "Email Updates."
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