While solving a nearly $5 billion state deficit eventually became the main focus of the 2009 Minnesota legislative session, legislators still found time to make some important strides to support cleaner transportation options. Victories included the following:

• A two-year solution for the record $63 million operating deficit for Twin Cities transit, and funding to support transit in greater Minnesota.
• A $26 million investment for intercity passenger rail planning, including high-speed rail to connect the Twin Cities with Chicago and Duluth.
• A $21 million investment for transitway development in the Twin Cities, including $8.5 million for the Central Corridor light rail line.
• Requirement changes for school building projects that make it easier for communities to keep schools in walkable neighborhoods.
• A Metropolitan Council effort that will help communities rethink their land-use planning to support transportation options, reduce congestion, lower air pollution, and lower infrastructure costs.
• Support for electric vehicles.

While the legislature made good strides this year, several valuable policies were left stranded when Governor Pawlenty vetoed the omnibus transportation policy bill. The omnibus bill had received broad bipartisan support in both bodies (123-11 in the House and 59-2 in the Senate) and included several provisions for walking, biking, transit, and intercity rail at the Minnesota Department of Transportation. More details are available in a great summary from Minnesota 2020.

While solving a nearly $5 billion state deficit eventually became the main focus of the 2009 Minnesota legislative session, legislators