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Northstar Corridor Development Authority (NCDA) executives met with state and local officials this week in an effort to gain governmental support for the proposed commuter-rail project.



NCDA representatives presented Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty and other senior administrators with reasons why they believe commuter rail is the best solution for the area’s mounting transportation problems. NCDA officials also highlighted the proposed railroad’s cost effectiveness and public support.



The state plans to research the information before making decisions about future transportation projects, Pawlenty said in a prepared statement.



NCDA is requesting $123 million in low-interest state bonds to fund the projet’s construction.



Running 82 miles along highways 10 and 47 from St. Cloud/Rice to Minneapolis, the Northstar Corridor is Minnesota’s fastest-growing area.