NICOLLET, Minn. – Today, Governor Tim Walz, Minnesota Department of Transportation Commissioner Margaret Anderson Kelliher and local leaders gathered at the Nicollet Volunteer Fire Department to announce a new funding plan to expand the stretch of U.S. Highway 14 between Nicollet and New Ulm. The 12 miles of two-lane roadway has long been considered one of the most dangerous highways in Minnesota, and the effort to fund the improvements is decades old.
“I thank the Governor, Commissioner Kelliher, and especially the residents and the broad coalition of local leaders who have worked tirelessly over the years to deliver the critical funding needed to complete this project,” said Rep. Jack Considine (DFL – Mankato). “I also want to recognize the commitment of my colleague, Rep. Jeff Brand, whose leadership has been unwavering, and he has been there to comfort family members of those who’ve lost their lives.”
Under the plan, MnDOT will apply for a federal Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) loan, administered through the Rural Project Initiative and Build America Bureau of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The loan application will ask the federal government for an estimated $36 million for Highway 14. An update to state law will be necessary for MnDOT to apply.
“For too long, Highway 14 has been associated with heartbreak and tragedy,” Rep. Considine added. “Today, we finally have something to celebrate. I’m hopeful the state will receive this funding, and I can’t wait to see work get underway.”