MN Lawmaker Changes Stance on Zip Project
St Paul, MN (KROC AM News) - A state lawmaker who has been critical of public funding of the proposed Zip Rail project has changed his stance - somewhat.
House member Pat Garofalo says he has reached an agreement with Zip Rail supporters on legislative language that would protect taxpayers but leave the door open for private funding for the proposed high-speed rail line between Rochester and the Twin Cities.
Garofalo had been trying to block MnDOT from using tax dollars on the project. Under the agreement reached this week, no tax dollars would be used to fund rail construction, land acquisition, rail car purchases, or the operation of the line itself but the project could move ahead with private funds.
A private group announced this week it has lined up investors for the project and a formal presentation of their plan is expected to be made soon.
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