Minnesota Senate
Minnesota House
of Representatives
April 12, 2019
Nora Slawik, Chair
Metropolitan Council
390 Robert St N
St Paul MN 55101
Dear Chair Slawik,
We understand that the plan to remove the trees in the Kenilworth Corridor to
make way for Southwest LRT construction is set for April or May.
We know that receipt of the Letter of No Prejudice has been taken as an
indication by the Metropolitan Council that the Full Funding Grant
Agreement is a mere formality and may be issued soon. However, we are also
aware that the current federal administration has not been finalizing and
releasing transit project funds for projects that would otherwise have been
deemed ready to go.
We urge you in the strongest terms possible to delay clear cutting the trees in
the corridor until all possible impediments to the construction of SWLRT
have been resolved.
As you know, the bucolic character of this corridor is prized by many. It is
heavily used. In the event that SWLRT does not proceed for any reason,
elimination of this unique, urban forest preserve and passageway would be a
reckless and irreversible mistake. At a minimum, should construction be

 Chair Slawik
April 12, 2019
Page 2

delayed for whatever reason, losing the ability to enjoy it for this spring and
summer season would be a shame.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding in this matter.
Very truly yours,

D. Scott Dibble
State Senator, District 61

Frank Hornstein
State Representative, District 61A

Jono Cowgill
Lisa Goodman
City Council Member, Ward 7

Jono Cowgill
Park Commissioner, District 4

Meg Forney
Park Commissioner, At Large

LaTrisha Vetaw
Park Commissioner, At Large

cc:

Governor Tim Walz
Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan