SAINT PAUL, MN — Today, Governor Dayton unveiled a $986 million bonding proposal for statewide infrastructure projects in higher education, transportation, housing, economic development, clean water and wastewater systems. Bonding, also known as capital investment, is responsible long-term borrowing for necessary infrastructure projects.
“Investing in Minnesota’s infrastructure is an essential part of growing our economy and building for the future, and this proposal is a solid start,” said Rep. John Ward (DFL – Baxter), Vice Chair of the House Capital Investment Committee and chief author of last year’s bonding that was signed into law. “Bonding helps our communities and economy grow by building the long-term infrastructure — roads, bridges, higher education facilities — needed to help businesses be successful in the future.”
The bonding proposal contains $40 million for MnSCU Higher Education Asset Preservation and Repair, which could potentially include funding for Central Lakes College to replace the roof on the Library/Fine Arts building and replace air handlers, HVAC distribution and controls for the business and industry area.
The proposal also includes $5 million for state parks and trails, money which could fund an expansion of the Cuyuna Lakes Trail and the Camp Ripley-State Veterans Trail. State Representative Joe Radinovich (DFL – Crosby) is the chief author of legislation expanding the Cuyuna Lakes Trail, and Rep. Ward is the chief author of the Camp Ripley-State Veterans Trail legislation.
Governor Dayton’s bonding bill contains $30 million for statewide bridge repair and replacement and another $10 million for local road improvements. The proposal includes $50 million for affordable housing infrastructure and rehabilitation, and $70.7 million in clean drinking water and wastewater infrastructure investments.
“A strong bonding bill is good for our economy, our quality of life, and our future,” said Rep. Radinovich. “This will be a process, but Governor Dayton’s proposal is a good starting point. Our public colleges need critical repairs and improvements if we want a world-class education system, and expanding our local trails will bring more tourists to our region, build on the great outdoor experiences we’re known for, and grow our economy.”
In addition to these projects, Rep. Ward has also introduced bonding legislation for the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport to construct an extension of water and sanitary sewer service and to replace one mile of the existing sewer line. Rep. Radinovich is a co-author.
Rep. Ward also introduced legislation for the Baxter Isle Drive Extension, Brainerd Veterans Nursing Home, and Pequot Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Spray Irrigation Replacement.
Reps. Ward and Radinovich said they would continue to push for local projects as the House introduces its own proposal and the legislation moves through the process.
“This is still in the early stages and could change, but I will continue to work for the much-needed projects in our area — including the Aitkin Fairgrounds project,” said Rep. Radinovich.
“I look forward to working with my legislative colleagues in the House and Senate and Governor Dayton to ensure that our area is well-represented in the final bonding bill,” added Rep. Ward.
Reps. Ward and Radinovich encourage constituents to contact them with any questions, comments, concerns, or ideas on any legislative topic. Rep. Ward can be reached by phone at 651-296-4333 or by email at rep.john.ward@house.mn. Rep. Radinovich can be reach by phone at 651-296-2365 or email at rep.joe.radinovich@house.mn.