SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Tuesday, Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Transportation announced $380 million worth of funding for eight projects through the state’s Corridors of Commerce program. The package includes $18 million in roadway improvements to Highway 53 between Eveleth and Virginia.
Rep. Dave Lislegard (DFL – Aurora) cheered the announcement.
“These investments in Highway 53 will improve safety and access for students, parents, and educators at Rock Ridge Schools and put us in a better position to accommodate growth and development in our region. Funding is extremely competitive, and I congratulate everyone who successfully made the case for this project,” Rep. Lislegard said. “Tools like Corridors of Commerce are vital to ensure transportation infrastructure is safe while helping communities stay connected, and I’m delighted to learn Highway 53 is receiving funding.”
This is the fourth round of Corridors of Commerce funding provided by the Minnesota Legislature and includes a total of $403 million, including $250 million authorized by the Legislature in 2021 and $153 million provided in 2023.
The Corridors of Commerce program was created by the Minnesota Legislature in 2013 and is focused on transportation investments on state highway projects that directly and indirectly foster economic growth for the state of Minnesota.
More information about the Corridors of Commerce program – including past awards and recent applicants – can be found on MnDOT’s website.