Friends,
I am pleased to report that Wednesday morning Governor Dayton signed into law the bonding bill that was passed by the legislature at the end of session. This geographically balanced package features $825 million in general obligation bonds to be used to fund construction projects statewide, such as roads and bridges and water infrastructure.
One of the most important projects for our area is funding to finish Highway 14 between Rochester and Mankato. This is long overdue, will help save lives, and will benefit southern Minnesota's economy by improving travel times, access, and travel capacity.
Other infrastructure projects funded by the bill include:
- $541 million for transportation
- $178 million for asset preservation
- $123 million for water-related projects
- $20 million for flood work
- $208 million for higher education construction
- $32 million for veterans homes in Preston, Bemidji, and Montevideo
- $28 million for mental health crisis centers
With funding such as trunk highway bonds included, the bill provides an additional $416 million for transportation intended for Highways 14, 23, and 252.
Also included in the bill is $25 million for critical school safety building upgrades – a top priority of House Republicans during the 2018 legislative session.
While it was disappointing that Governor Dayton misguidedly vetoed two good, compromise bills last week, signing the bonding bill will be a boon to many areas of the state.
Please continue to stay in touch to share your thoughts and ideas on issues important to you. You can schedule a time to meet with me in my office anytime by calling (651) 296-9236, or share your thoughts via email by emailing me at rep.duane.quam@house.mn
Have a great weekend,
Duane