U.S. House Passes Spending Bill with Funding for Key Projects in Central Minnesota

(KNSI) — The massive spending bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday includes several local projects.

The six appropriations bills funded 12 major infrastructure projects for roads and water treatment. Among them is the 15th Street North Regional Corridor Expansion Project in Sartell. It would construct a three-lane road urban connector, including separate off-street trails and wider shoulders with curb/gutter. The total cost will be $3.812 million, and it is getting $2.15 million to help. Mayor Ryan Fitzhum says getting that finished will be “critically important to the future growth of our community and for access to those who live within the region. If not for Rep. [Tom] Emmer’s support of this project, we would not be able to develop this important regional corridor.”

The City of Waite Park will get $1.2 million for a $1.5 million project to put a J-Turn on Highway 23 at Bel Clare Drive. It would reconstruct a full access intersection and create a Reduced Conflict Intersection or R-CUT. The intersection sees 30,000 vehicles daily and is known for left turn and right angle crashes. Mayor Rick Miller said it’s a “significant step towards enhancing highway safety within the City of Waite Park. This project addresses the pressing need for improved traffic flow and reduced accident rates at this key intersection, ultimately contributing to the overall safety and well-being of our community. We thank Congressman Emmer for advocating for this project. It demonstrates the positive outcomes that can be achieved through collaboration between local, state and federal representatives, highlighting the importance of investing in infrastructure for the benefit of the entire community.”

The City of Becker is getting $3.85 million for intersection improvements at Highway 10 and Highway 25.

Changes will also be made to Interstate 94 and Highway 24 in Clearwater. It’s a multi-agency project to improve safety and efficiency at the intersection. The total cost is $26 million, and it is getting $3 million to help.

See the rest of the projects here.

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