Title
Supporting the development and implementation of U.S. Bicycle Route 41.
Body
WHEREAS, bicycle tourism is a growing industry in North America, presently contributing approximately $47 billion dollars a year nationally to the economies of communities that provide facilities for said tourism; and
WHEREAS, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Official (AASHTO) has designated a corridor connecting Saint Paul to Grand Portage State Park, via Duluth, to be developed as United States Bike Route 41; and
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Transportation has convened several public open houses and offered online public comment opportunities throughout the corridor to gather information and review route alternatives; and
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Transportation in cooperation with road and trail authorities have proposed a specific route to be designated as Unites States Bike Route 41, a map of which is herein incorporated into this resolution by reference; and
WHEREAS, the proposed United States Bike Route 41 traverses through the City of Saint Paul and is expected to provide a benefit to local residents and businesses; and
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Transportation will continue to maintain statewide mapping information regarding United States Bike Route 41, convene meetings and facilitate resolving issues and future alignment revisions within the state; and
WHEREAS, the City of Saint Paul has duly considered said proposed route and determined it to be a suitable route through the City of Saint Paul and desire that the route be formally designated so that it can be appropriately mapped and signed, thereby promoting bicycle tourism locally and throughout Minnesota along the corridor; and
WHEREAS, the City of Saint Paul is not committing to any capital expenditure now or in the future related to United States Bike Route 41; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Saint Paul does herby express its approval and support for the development of United States Bike Route 41 and requests that the appropriate government officials take action to officially designate the route accordingly.