Opportunity to weigh in on Mpls-Duluth high speed rail

MnDOT is releasing an environmental assessment of the proposed Northern Lights Express, a high speed passenger rail service that would connect Minneapolis and Duluth.

The 155 mile rail line would run mostly on existing track from BNSF, and would reach speeds of 110 mph.

"The Environment Assessment will describe the purpose and need for the proposed project, alternatives considered, environmental impacts such as vegetation, wildlife resources and wetlands," said MnDOTProject Manager Julie Carr.

The report is available on MnDOT's website. Hard copies will be on display at various government buildings near the train route (part of the route goes through Wisconsin).

There will be a public hearing and open house Thursday, April 4, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Cambridge Armed Forces Reserve Community Center in Cambridge, Minn.

• In a few years, the nation's tallest building may not be in New York or Chicago
• Cop-suit payouts higher in Minneapolis than Baltimore
• New Minneapolis logo: Now with fewer sailboats
• St. Paul saves dilapidated billboard