Senator Andrew Lang (R-Olivia) and members of the Minnesota Senate Capital Investment Committee toured several proposed infrastructure projects in west central Minnesota, including a proposed veterans home in Montevideo. The senators toured the projects in preparation for the 2018 legislative session and a potential bonding bill – legislation that would fund various local infrastructure projects across the state.

The projects visited included a 70-bed nursing care facility for veterans in Montevideo, completing a four-lane highway on Minnesota State Highway 23 between Willmar and I-94, a railroad overpass connected to the Wilmar Wye project, and funding for roof repairs and maintenance projects at the Hutchinson and Willmar campuses of Ridgewater College. The largest public turnout was in support of the proposed Montevideo veteran’s home where well over 100 citizens packed the Montevideo American Legion.

“We had a great turnout with a large group of veterans who have been supporting this home for years,” said Senator Lang. “They are in their eleventh year of trying to get this built and we finally have a bonding committee that is very willing to listen. I’m encouraged by the passion of the community and the support they are showing for this very important project.”

The community has already raised $5 million in pledges for the project. Senator Lang has authored legislation for the 2018 session that will provide an additional $9 million in funding from the state. Lang will also be authoring legislation to fund the other projects visited in the area. The next step in the process will be committee hearings in St. Paul when session begins in late February.

“Having legislators visit these projects is an essential step in the bonding process,” added Senator Lang. “Investment in Greater Minnesota infrastructure strengthens our state by laying the foundation for future growth. I look forward to championing these projects during the 2018 session.”