Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to modify the funding allocation requirements for transportation projects under the "Corridors of Commerce" program in Minnesota. This program provides funding for improvements to transportation infrastructure, which is critical for economic development and regional connectivity.

Main Provisions

• The bill establishes specific percentage allocations of available funds for different types of transportation projects to maintain regional balance across the state.
• Metro Projects: A minimum of 25% and a maximum of 27.5% of funds must be allocated to projects located within or directly adjacent to the area bounded by Interstate Highways 494 and 694.
• Metro Connector Projects: At least 35% and a maximum of 37.5% of funds are designated for projects outside the metro area boundary but still within the greater metropolitan counties.
• Regional Center Projects: These projects, which do not fall under the Metro or Metro Connector categories, must receive a minimum of 35% and a maximum of 40% of funds.

Significant Changes

• The new percentages for fund allocation ensure that there is a balanced distribution of resources between metropolitan and regional areas. This is a significant adjustment to prevent over-concentration of resources in any one area and to address the needs of different regions equally.

• The bill also introduces a method for calculating the allocation percentages based on total available funds over the current and past two consecutive project selection rounds, including readiness development projects. This ensures transparency and accountability in how funds are distributed over time.

Relevant Terms

• Corridors of Commerce program
• Regional balance
• Metro Projects
• Metro Connector Projects
• Regional Center Projects
• Interstate Highways 494 and 694
• Greater metropolitan county