Businesses Struggling from Construction Want More Aid

Business owners in Lindstrom do not believe they are being treated favorably.

They argue businesses located in the Twin Cities that are negatively impacted by light rail construction are eligible for much more aid. In the case of Lindstrom, the city, Chisago County, and the state have spent roughly $30,000 trying to mitigate the impact of construction. However, that pales in comparison to the millions of dollars in aid available to businesses impacted by the Central Corridor project.

Why?

First, the Highway 8 project in Lindstrom is much smaller; $12 million versus the nearly $1 billion light rail project.

Secondly, the light rail project stretches across several jurisdictions with deep pockets; Minneapolis, St. Paul, Metro Transit, and the Metropolitan Council.

Still, some argue the money could be more evenly distributed to include additional aid for businesses impacted in small towns.

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