One Voice changing formats

The One Voice 2010 delegation on a tour of the U.S. Capitol. (WJBC file photo)

BLOOMINGTON – The Economic Development Council is changing the way One Voice is situated.

Typically, Bloomington-Normal leaders travel to Washington, D.C. to lobby for money for specific projects in the community. For example, it’s how Uptown Station was mostly funded. But, Congress has an earmark ban, so EDC CEO Marty Vanags said the group will instead go with the theme of Transportation projects in the Twin Cities, and the long term plans.

“A strong airport that provides for economic development activities. You know, there’s a huge hole since we’ve lost AirTran/Southwest and we’re going to have to try to fix that,” Vanags said. “High speed rail and freight rail is very important. Mass transit and bicycle and pedestrian activities are important.”

The group will go with a white paper to show to federal officials, including local members of Congress.

Vanags said he’s not worried about leaders losing interest, or about lawmakers cutting funding permanently.

“Everybody understands there has to be cuts and everybody understands that priorities have to be set,” he said. “These are our priorities for economic development, so we’re going to be there like anyone else would have the right to do and make sure that the things that affect us are weighed in on.”

Community members in a transportation summit are drafting the white paper this week. The trip is in March.

Stephanie Pawlowski can be reached at Stephanie@wjbc.com.