ST. PAUL – Today, Governor Dayton and Representative Barb Yarusso (DFL-Shorview) announced that the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has awarded new funds for 13 new transportation improvement projects that are part of the Corridors of Commerce initiative. These projects include $1.1 million in design work to implement MnPASS lanes on I-35W from Arden Hills to Lino Lakes.
“This is an important project for the north metro,” said Rep. Barb Yarusso. “The MnPASS lanes on I-35W are essential for making the commuter lane network effective, and getting people to and from home and work quickly and safely, whether by car or public transit. The Corridors of Commerce funding is an important tool to ensure that projects like this get done as quickly as possible."
The Corridors of Commerce initiative provides targeted funds for transportation projects that will help reduce congestion, enhance safety, and improve the efficient movement of goods and commuters. All of the projects are focused on promoting economic growth.
In total, 27 transportation projects have received Corridors of Commerce funding since November 2013. The latest round of funding announced today will speed up work on 13 important projects, and ensure that more projects will get started in the next few years.
The Minnesota Legislature created the Corridors of Commerce program in 2013, setting aside $300 million, which became available July 1, 2014. This money is funding 10 projects, five of which started this year. You can view the complete list of projects here.
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