Transit Talk: Push Is On for Securing Equity Commitments in SWLRT Project
The Hennepin County Regional Rail Authority and the Metropolitan Council held a joint hearing last Wednesday to hear public testimony on the Southwest Light Rail Transit following changes to the initial plans as a result of a mediated deal between the city of Minneapolis and the Met Council. During the hearing, the Equity Commitments Coalition for SWLRT and our allies, shifted the focus from debates about co-location of freight and light rail to racial disparities in the transit system and strategies to help the line benefit more low-income communities and people of color.
Read about Hennepin County’s approval of the project >
Also, the city of Minneapolis held a separate hearing this past Tuesday to hear from both supporters and opponents about the project. Our coalition members continued to make the case that the project has the potential to be an economic engine for North Minneapolis and connect residents to job opportunities throughout the metro area.
Read MPR News’ “Southwest Light Rail: Final, Divided Hearing Sets Stage for Votes” >