Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to ensure the continuation of funding for the replacement of the Robert Street viaduct in St. Paul, Minnesota, and associated infrastructure improvements if a federal grant is rescinded.

Main Provisions

• The bill provides a financial backup plan for the transportation project involving the replacement of the Robert Street viaduct and associated improvements.
• It delineates specific appropriations from state funds to ensure the project's completion if federal funding (specifically the RAISE grant) is withdrawn.
• It specifies improvements to be made, such as the reconstruction of Robert Street from Page Street to Cesar Chavez Street, upgrading pedestrian crossings and sidewalks, enhancing transit access, improving lighting, and adding extra community amenities as desired.

Significant Changes

• Two financial appropriations from Minnesota's funds are proposed in the event of a federal funding rescission:
  • Trunk Highway Fund: Allocates $21.2 million to cover eligible parts of the project.
  • General Fund: Allocates $3.8 million for parts of the project that are ineligible for trunk highway funds.
• These funds are set as a one-time allocation and will remain available until the project is fully completed.

Relevant Terms

RAISE grant, United States Department of Transportation, trunk highway fund, general fund, viaduct, Robert Street, St. Paul, Minnesota, infrastructure improvements.