To unemployed Building Trades members, Mall of America expansion mean jobs

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.workdayminnesota.org/index.php?news_6_3635

By Michael Kuchta
1 May 2008

ST. PAUL - For Carpenter Bruce Meyer, the proposed expansion of the Mall of America means one thing: a steady job. Meyer, age 56, of Cannon Falls, last worked 5 months ago. His unemployment benefits expire this month. His health insurance expired April 30. “I’ve never seen it this bad,” said Meyer, a member of Local 87.



“In the ’70s, it was not this bad. When you look at all the areas – gas prices, the housing market, the job market, the issues with health care, the issues with just employment in general, employment across the board, not only in the construction trades – I don’t know if I’ve ever seen it this bad.”

Hundreds rally to support expansion

Meyer was among hundreds of unemployed construction workers who rallied in the Capitol Rotunda Tuesday, chanting “Construction jobs now!” and cheering legislative leaders from both parties who said they support legislation clearing the way for the mall’s expansion.

The $2.1 billion expansion would double the mall’s size. Most important to workers like Meyer, it would create 7,000 construction jobs over the next four years. It would provide twice as many jobs at the 35W Bridge, the Twins ballpark and the Gophers stadium combined.

The expansion includes $1.8 billion in private investment – if the state approves public financing for an 8,000-car parking ramp and other infrastructure. Legislation would not require any state money upfront. But it would add hotel, liquor and other surcharges at the mall. The most controversial provisions authorize tax deferments through changes in TIF districts and a complicated property tax mechanism known as the fiscal disparities pool.

The legislation has passed the Senate. Whether it can get enough support in the House and from Gov. Tim Pawlenty remains uncertain.

Unemployment rate exceeds 16 percent

FULL story at link.

[Deja Q]

1. 16%? Damn.

Also, when new buildings are made, surely the same workers could work in demolition or building repair jobs?

[rocktivity]

2. But does it NEED to be twice its size? Isn't it biggest one in the country already?

And four years later, you'll be right back where you started...

:shrug:
rocknation

[gristy]

3. 2x as large?

OMG. I stopped going there after a couple visits - it's just a horrible place. Retail hell. Lots of good places around the twin cities to shop.

[rocktivity]

4. If a new tourist attraction is what MN needs,

may I suggest charging admission to a certain airport bathroom stall...

:evilgrin:
rocknation