(Rochester, Minn.) May 18, 2022 – The Destination Medical Center Corporation (DMCC) Board of Directors at a special meeting today passed a resolution to approve three enhancements to the Link Bus Rapid Transit project for submission to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Small Starts Program. The enhancements approved in the resolution are:
- Realignment and extension of east terminus with a new station on 6th St. SE, west of 3rd Ave. SE.
- Enhanced station user experience focused on weather protection and sustainable design materials with direct access to pedestrian subways.
- Expanding the project definition in the application to the FTA Small Starts Program to include infrastructure improvements, including design and construction of a public plaza area, a portion (1,400 feet) of the roadway, municipal utilities along this roadway, and public parking at the West Transit Village, extension of 6th Street SE, and bus maintenance improvements at the Public Works Transit Operations Center.
The reason for these enhancements is to improve connections between people, neighborhoods, employment, parks, shopping, and dining along the Link route. The approved enhancements will extend the estimated completion date of the project to the spring of 2026. The resolution will next move to the Rochester City Council for approval.
The DMCC also approved a resolution to for additional capital investments for the Chateau Theatre. These funds will provide for the installing, furnishing, and equipping of the Chateau Theatre as a multipurpose performing arts center and driver of DMC development district economic activity and revitalization.
The improvements will include:
- Audience furnishings
- Lighting, projection, and audio/public address equipment
- Stage, pipe and drape, and truss items
“This is an opportunity to see what works really well and how it connects to the Heart of the City,” said board member Brooke Carlson. “It gives us at the city time to figure out a long-term strategy for the theatre.”
The meeting also marked the end of board member R.T. Rybak’s term as chair. During the meeting, Pam Wheelock was voted in as the new chair of the DMCC Board of Directors. “I am honored to pass the gavel to Pam Wheelock,” said former chair R.T. Rybak. Pam has tremendous experience working in economic development and with cities.”
Newly elected Chair Pam Wheelock stated, “I am delighted that R.T. [Rybak] will continue his service on the board. I am also pleased that Kim [Norton] will continue to serve as vice chair. I look forward to their sustained support as we move forward.” Mark Thein was elected Treasurer of the board. Chair Wheelock appointed Paul Williams as Secretary and Dale Martinson, City of Rochester Director of Finance and Information Technology, will continue as Vice Treasurer.
The next DMCC Board Meeting is scheduled for September 22, 2022, at 9:30 a.m.