This bill establishes new requirements for municipal approval of guideway plans in Minnesota, specifically mandating that local governments must review and approve preliminary design plans before any federal funding can be requested for transit projects. The bill outlines a structured process for public hearings and local government reviews, ensuring that affected municipalities have the opportunity to provide input on the plans. If a local government disapproves the plans, they must specify amendments that could lead to a withdrawal of disapproval. Additionally, if significant changes are made to the final design plans, these must also be submitted for local approval.
Furthermore, the bill allows municipalities to revoke their approval of the plans at any time before federal funding is secured, requiring the council to reassess the plans in light of the revocation. The council is explicitly prohibited from applying for federal funds until all relevant local governments have granted their approval. This legislation aims to enhance local governance and community involvement in transit planning, ensuring that local concerns are addressed before moving forward with guideway projects.