Your chamber is actively engaged with MN DOT, United Taconite and other principle parties during the Highway 53 relocation project
which is due to be completed by 2017. We want to fully represent your business voice and are advocating for the best possible
relocation route based on your comments and concerns. 

The current phase of the project is an Environmental Review and Design Decision Process.  There are 3 stages to this process.

1. Scoping:  Identifying issues and screening alternatives
1. Completion by mid-late 2011
2. Environmental Review:  Study the design and impacts of the most promising alternative(s).
1. Start mid 2011, Completion by 2012
3. Final Decision and Approvals:  Develop design/cost refinements; finalize project decisions and approvals.
1. Start 2012, Completion by end 2013

See the map below of proposed routes for the new highway, and send us your comments, concerns, and preferences. 
We feel that Alternate M-1 and Alternate M-2 would have the least impact on our communities as a whole, but all current routes identified
are being considered.

Be assured that the Laurentian Chamber of Commerce will be your active voice during this process.

You can check for updates in the chamber newsletter the first Sundy of every month.

*** Please email your comments on these Highway Alternatives to: admin@laurentianchamber.org

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