no. it would be because the project will not meet federal guidelines for funds, including adequate environmental review. start tomorrow if you like — just make sure the env review, and the other requirements, are taken care of first.

And Oberstar thinks it’s okay for them to lose this eligibility?

no. that’s why he told them to fix it.

that’s, at least, my reading of it. the whole scenario is a bit confusing.

There had been worry that M1 Rail’s original intention to begin construction by the end of this year would jeopardize the matching-funds idea because work would begin before federal requirements on environmental studies would be finished on the city’s segment.

It appears Oberstar shares those same concerns.

I don’t get it. They could be ineligible for matching funds because they’re starting early? And Oberstar thinks it’s okay for them to lose this eligibility?