ST"% a % \ .SB,1 PRO^ 2010 National Achievements in Environmental Justice Awards Recognizing Successful Achieving Public Health and Environmental Justice Goals Transportation Equity/ Stops for Us Coalition St. Paul, Minnesota Community residents rally for the three stations at Rondo Days Parade, 2007 St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman addressing a Stops for US community meeting, November 2007. Jim Erkel, MN Center for Environmental Advocacy explains a map to Central Corridor Residents. EPA is pleased to recognize the Transportation Equity/Stops for Us Coalition for its efforts to form a broad-based partnership to secure the construction of three new light rail transit stations, which will provide access for the transit dependent communities of East University Avenue and connect residents to housing, jobs, education, and the many amenities located throughout the Twin Cities metropolitan region. The Central Corridor Light Rail Transit Project, a $30 million investment connecting downtown St. Paul and downtown Minneapolis, will provide improved transit service through the heart of the region, particularty for residents living in environmental justice neighborhoods located along the planned route. Construction of the three light rail transit stations will directly benefit the 8,331 people who live within a quarter mile of the stations (81% minority; average median household income for homes near the three stations is $32,000). The Coalition worked extensively to: influence public officials; research station spacing; map demographics; participate in and Beverage to the fullest extent possible the National Environmental Policy Act process; draft state legislation; monitor public meetings; testify at public hearings; and implement a media strategy. Moreover, the Coalition has been able to establish a Central Corridor Community Agreements Coordinating Committee to ensure equitable community benefits from related development. Partners Alliance for Metropolitan Stability Asian Economic Development Association Aurora St. Anthony Neighborhood Development Corporation Community Stabilization Project District Councils Collaborative of St. Paul and Minneapolis Got Voice, Got Power! ISAIAH Jewish Community Action Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy Transit for Livable Communities UFCW Local 789 ------- |