Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is proposing a $982 million infrastructure plan for this session to fund state capital-building projects. Walz is emphasizing improving the state’s roads, public safety, and protection of drinking water in his proposal.
Walz’s plan also includes new construction, such as buildings for public safety and water infrastructure projects. For example, Walz proposed $48 million for a new Bureau of Criminal Apprehension regional office and laboratory in Mankato. He’s also advocating $22 million for a State Patrol headquarters building.
Are there any projects planned for Eden Prairie in his plan?
Specifically, one of the projects is for the Lower Minnesota Watershed District and the stabilization of the Minnesota River bank. This has a $2.75 million price tag and is the final design and construction of capital improvements “necessary to stabilize the riverbank and prevent erosion and prevent future degradation of the water quality of the Minnesota River resulting from Area 3 bank erosion in the city of Eden Prairie.”
There are also proposed projects in some immediate surrounding communities to Eden Prairie. Shakopee would also receive state funds to improve its portion of the Minnesota River. It is proposed that this project for $8.26 million to stabilize the riverbank from the western edge of downtown Shakopee to the Landing in the Three Rivers Park District.
Infrastructure packages are normally passed during even years. Walz said the proposal has $819 million in general obligation bonds, the rest in other financing and cash and “will move the state into the golden age of construction and infrastructure in Minnesota.”
Walz highlighted the plan’s focus on keeping intact Minnesota’s vast public assets.
“Another key part of this plan is going to be preserving what we already have. The infrastructure in the state from corner to corner is our greatest asset,” Walz said. “It also is irresponsible to not make sure you’re keeping up the maintenance on those.”
Nearly half of Walz’s proposed funding is allocated toward the maintenance of existing infrastructure.
Historically, the bonding bill is one of the last pieces of proposed legislation taken up in the legislative session. Right now, there are no committee meetings scheduled on it in either chamber of the Legislature, but that will change in April.
It is also a contentious point between Republicans and Democrats, with much political wrangling and compromises. So, Walz’s proposal may very well have changes before it becomes law.
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