On June 1, 2023, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed the largest infrastructure bill in state history into law.
The focus is almost exclusively on projects that will advance community revitalization, renovate aging facilities to boost water quality, increase housing options, etc.
Governor Walz signed the $2.6 billion infrastructure bill along the Mississippi River near the Hennepin Avenue Bridge.
Funding for reconstructing that aging bridge is including in the bill.
“This infrastructure bill is about making life safer and easier for Minnesotans and delivering on the most basic things that government should provide – reliable roads, clean drinking water, and sound infrastructure to support safe, healthy communities,” said Governor Walz.
“With this investment, we’re going to rebuild our roads and bridges, repair fire stations and water treatment plants, and upgrade our veterans homes, fish hatcheries, and flood mitigation systems – all while creating good-paying jobs for Minnesotans. This is how we put a down payment on the future of our state,” he added.
The $2.6 billion infrastructure bill will help pay for hundreds of infrastructure projects that hope to create good-paying jobs and bring long-term revitalization to communities across the state, including:
- $72 million for public housing rehabilitation;
- $403 million for transportation infrastructure renovation, including local roads and bridges;
- $501 million for water infrastructure renewal projects;
- $78 million to renovate the Hastings Veterans Home;
- $20 million for upgrading the Waterville fish hatchery;
- $72 million for expanding bus rapid transit; and
- Over $120 million for community-based organizations and nonprofits.
Present at the signing were Lieutenant Governor Flanagan, legislators, labor leaders, and advocates.
“From clean drinking water and strong community centers to safe housing , I am so thrilled by the progress and prosperity held in this infrastructure package,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.
“By making historic investments in communities – particularly Black, Brown, and Native communities – that have often been left out of public investment, this bill makes equitable investments, so no community is left behind. These projects are what make Minnesota the best place to live, work, and raise a family,” he concluded.
Photo from the signing ceremony courtesy of the Office of the Governor of Minnesota.