For Immediate Release
Contact: Marshall Hallock, CPA 651.385.3600
Red Wing’s Riverfront Renewal Projects Included in Governor Walz’s Local Jobs & Projects Bonding Proposal
ST. PAUL—Governor Tim Walz, on Wednesday, January 15, rolled out the final part of his plan to borrow more than $2 billion for public construction projects. A bonding bill is considered the main task of even-year legislative sessions.
The Governor included $3.90 million in funding for the continuation of the Red Wing’s riverfront renewal effort. Red Wing’s projects include the reconstruction of three blocks of Old West Main Street and the building of a pedestrian-bicycle connection to the riverfront; at the Upper Harbor, renewal of about 20 acres of underutilized land by realigning a portion of Levee Road to provide new parking with a grain truck fleeting area, added park space and a potential for wetland enhancements; and funding to build a Riverfront Trail connection between He Mni Can-Barn Bluff Park and Colvill Park.
“I want to thank the Governor and Lt. Governor for supporting Red Wing’s efforts as we continue to revitalize our historic riverfront that is enjoyed by our residents and visitors,” said Red Wing City Council President Dean Hove. “The West End of Red Wing is one of the oldest parts of town. Rebuilding the three blocks of Old West Main will replace infrastructure that is well over 100 years old.”
The Minnesota Senate and House of Representatives have yet to release their respective bonding bills. However, project supporters see the inclusion of the City’s proposed projects in the Governor’s bonding proposals as a positive sign that the projects could be included in the final version of the bonding bill, which the Legislature is expected to pass before adjourning for the year in May.
“Including our riverfront renewal project in the bonding bill is great news for the city of Red Wing and the entire region,” said Red Wing’s Mayor Sean Dowse. “Continuing upgrading our riverfront, improving trail access, and rebuilding critical infrastructure are important.”