ST. PAUL – Rep. David Bly (DFL, Northfield) today introduced a bill (HF 3003) to revive the proposed Dan Patch Commuter Rail Line that would link Northfield to Minneapolis.

Bly, who introduced the bill on the first day of the 2008 session, said it is an important step toward better commutes and more transit options for the south metro area. "Commuters in Northfield and the south metro deserve more transit options," said Bly. "This legislation is necessary first step toward investment in a railway that could substantially ease traffic congestion and provide a valuable, convenient option for commuters across the south metro."

Viability for the Dan Patch railway was studied by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and the Metropolitan Council Transit 2020 Plan in the late 1990s and was given the same rating as the Northstar Corridor that is currently under construction.

However, legislation in 2002 pulled the plug on any further actions related to the Dan Patch railway. The legislation Bly introduced would repeal the limitations, re-opening the door for the Dan Patch railway.

"It is incredibly shortsighted for us to close the door on this transit option when our transportation needs as a state are constantly evolving," said Bly. "The people of Northfield and in the South Metro deserve for the Dan Patch railway to be studied, considered, and given a fair shake at becoming a reality."

Recent studies have shown that transit ridership is at an all-time high in Minnesota. Bly said this trend fits into the broader transportation direction the state should travel.

"Our transportation problems are significant, we have thousands of poor roads and bridges and heavy traffic congestion throughout the state," said Bly. "We need to do a better job to fix our roads and bridges, and we also need more transit options. The Dan Patch railway needs to be a critical part of the discussion as we move forward."