Monday, May 9, 2011

Mn/DOT seeks input to 50-year transportation system vision

BEMIDJI, Minn. — Northwestern Minnesotans will help determine the state’s transportation system vision for the next 50 years when the Minnesota Department of Transportation hosts a workshop on May 18 at Bemidji State University, Crying Wolf Room from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

This workshop is part of a series of eight workshops scattered across Minnesota. An online participation option is available May 23 for those unable to attend their local workshop. Details at www.minnesotago.org.

“Our current financial challenges and aging infrastructure make establishing a vision even more important,” said Tom Sorel, Mn/DOT commissioner. “The Minnesota GO workshops are Minnesotans’ opportunity to communicate their expectations for transportation today and for the next generation.”

The process will help the agency ensure future transportation planning efforts better align with Minnesotans’ expectations.


Participants from all backgrounds will think broadly while sharing ideas and thoughts during a series of small group discussions about the future of transportation. No advanced reservation is necessary and organizers ask participants to stay for the entire workshop.

A 31-member steering committee will review feedback from the workshops, online discussions and related research. This will serve as the foundation for the recommended 50-year transportation vision statement and set of objectives. A public hearing on the proposed vision will follow in July.

Mn/DOT and other transportation organizations will then use the vision and information to develop and update short-term and long-term multi-modal transportation plans.

Minnesotans interested in getting involved can check out www.minnesotago.org.

To request translation services or other accommodations, contact Janet Miller at janet.rae.miller@state.mn.us, 651-366-4720 (Twin Cities metro area) or 1-800-657-3774 (greater Minnesota) at least three business days in advance.

These workshops are not the correct venue to advocate for a specific construction project.