~ Governor Pawlenty’s Director of Communications, Brian McClung, statement regarding today’s decision by the Transportation Contingent Appropriations Group ~

Saint Paul – The following is a statement from Brian McClung, Director of Communications for Governor Tim Pawlenty, regarding the Transportation Contingent Appropriations Group’s decision to grant Mn/DOT an additional $60 million in appropriation authority:

“The LAC gave Mn/DOT less than half a loaf with no additional future commitment. This will make it difficult to rebuild the 35W bridge without delaying any other projects. The LAC’s decision is very disappointing, because legislators had the tools and resources to accomplish both goals.

“Their action today leaves approximately $85 million in transportation projects hanging in the balance.

“The LAC plans to meet again in November. Prior to that meeting we will renew our request for increased appropriation authority so Mn/DOT won’t have to delay any projects due to costs related to the bridge.”

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