State Representative David Bly, District 25B

In the 2008 legislative session, I’ve introduced new legislation to revive discussions about the previously proposed Dan Patch Commuter Line that would run along the I-35 corridor between Northfield and Minneapolis.

MnDOT undertook a feasibility study in 1999 and determined the Dan Patch line was a “Tier One” corridor. This identified it as a likely successful project. However, in 2002, then Senators William Belanger, R-Bloomington, and Roy Terwilliger, R-Edina, crafted legislation that prohibited any future discussions, at any level, of this plan. According to an article in the Feb 16 Star Tribune by staff writers David Peterson and Laurie Blake, the Met Council is urging the Legislature to lift the study ban so the Dan Patch Line can be included with every other potential rail corridor in the metro area as the Met Council updates its transportation policy guide for the next 30 years.

 I’ve often invoked the phrase “If not now, when?” when deciding whether to open discussions on various Legislative actions. To prevent future debate about the Dan Patch Line would not be in the best interests of citizens in my district or any other district. It is important to put this plan back on the table so future discussions about its feasibility can take place. If you have any concerns or interest in the progress of the Dan Patch Line, feel free to e-mail me at rep.david.bly@house.mn.