Title
Supporting the MnDOT designation of Saint Paul's portion of the Mississippi River Trail as U.S. Bike Route 45.
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 Minnesota Department of Transportation has convened several public meetings during the previous eighteen months locally and throughout the river's corridor to gather information, review route alternatives, and to provide assistance; and
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, in cooperation with road and trail authorities, have proposed a specific route to be designated as the Mississippi River Trail (USBR 45), a map of which is herein incorporated into this resolution by reference; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Mississippi River Trail (USBR 45) traverses through 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 and information regarding Mississippi River Trail (USBR 45), convene meetings, and facilitate the resolution of 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 desires 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 Mississippi River;
NOW THEREFORE IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED that the City Council of Saint Paulhereby expresses its approval and support for the development of the Mississippi River Trail (USBR 45) and requests that the appropriate government officials take action to officially designate the route accordingly as soon as possible.
See Attachment