Commissioners Erhart, Petersen Assume New Leadership Positions on the Northstar Corridor Development Authority

Anoka County Commisioner Dan Erhart and Sherbure County Commissioner Ewald Petersen have assumed positions as the new chair and vice chair, respectively, of the Northstar Corridor Development Authority (NCDA). Their positions are effective immediately.

Erhart replaces Benton County Commissioner Duane Grandy, who had served as the NCDA chair since 2003 before retiring in December. Erhart served as vice chair in 2006.

"I can’t say enough about the tremendous leadership Duane provided on behalf of the Northstar Commuter Rail project," Erhart said. "He engineered this project through very complicated local, state and federal approval processes. Northstar is now well-positioned to receive federal matching funds and begin construction this year. I’m honored to follow his lead and see Northstar through to a successful opening in 2009."

Erhart, who helped initiate planning for commuter rail and transportation improvements in the Northstar Corridor more than a decade ago, has served on the NCDA since 1997. Last summer, he and Grandy were recognized by the Metro Transitways Development Board for their leadership, persistence and patience in planning the state’s first commuter rail transit line.

Petersen was elected Sherburne County Commissioner in November after serving nearly 16 years on the Big Lake Town Board. He has served on the NCDA since 1997.

"The success of Northstar Commuter Rail has depended on the cooperation of local, state and federal officials, business leaders and other advocates," Petersen said. "I'm grateful to be part of this project and am excited to help lead Northstar through its final planning and construction. By continuing to work together, we’ll hope to ride the line in 2009."

About the Northstar Commuter Rail Project

The Northstar proposal is for commuter rail service on the 40-mile segment of existing track along Highways 10 and 47 from Big Lake to Minneapolis. Stations are proposed for Big Lake, Elk River, Anoka, Coon Rapids, Fridley and Minneapolis. It will offer a convenient connection to the Hiawatha LRT line in downtown Minneapolis.

The NCDA is a joint powers board of 30 counties, cities, townships and regional railroad authorities along the Northstar Corridor, which covers an area from downtown Minneapolis to Rice, north of St. Cloud. For more information about the Northstar Commuter Rail project, visit www.mn-GetOnBoard.com.