HF5017

Purpose

This bill would use state bonds to fund a new segment of the Cuyuna Lakes State Trail. The goal is to improve multimodal travel, safely connect existing trail networks, and make the trail more accessible to all users.

Main provisions

• Subdivision 1 – Appropriation

  • An amount of $2,000,000 is appropriated from the bond proceeds fund to the Commissioner of Natural Resources.
  • The funds are for designing and constructing a multiuse paved segment of the Cuyuna Lakes State Trail.
  • The segment runs under Minnesota Statutes section 85.015, subdivision 24, from the existing trail at the Northern Pacific Center to 28th Street Southeast in Brainerd.
  • The project aims to increase multimodal usage, improve safety by connecting to existing trail networks, and enhance accessibility for all users.

• Subdivision 2 – Bond sale

  • The money appropriated may be provided to the project through the sale and issuance of state bonds.
  • The bond amount is up to $2,000,000.
  • Bond terms must follow Minnesota Statutes sections 16A.631 to 16A.675 and the Minnesota Constitution, Article XI, sections 4 to 7.

Significance and impact

• Creates a funded pathway improvement for the Cuyuna Lakes State Trail, expanding the trail network and improving safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other trail users.
• Strengthens connections between trail segments and nearby areas, promoting easier and more versatile travel.
• Uses a debt-financing mechanism (bond proceeds fund) to pay for the project, with oversight and compliance per existing state law.

Significant changes to existing law

• Establishes a specific appropriation of $2,000,000 from the bond proceeds fund for this trail segment.
• Authorizes the sale of state bonds up to $2,000,000 to finance the project, under applicable statutes and constitutional provisions.

Relevant Terms - Cuyuna Lakes State Trail - Brainerd - Northern Pacific Center - multiuse paved trail - multimodal usage - accessibility - appropriation - bond proceeds fund - bond sale / bonds - Minnesota Statutes § 85.015, subd. 24 - Minnesota Statutes §§ 16A.631 to 16A.675 - Minnesota Constitution Article XI, §§ 4–7