On Tuesday, Aug. 15, State Senator Torrey Westrom (R-Alexandria) joined members of the Senate Capital Investment Committee to learn more about the Alex Tech Transportation Center project and the City of Alexandria’s proposal to update and modernize the Runestone Community Center (RCC). The group visited these projects as part of the Committee’s Northwest Tour to learn about regional projects seeking state bonding.

Alex Tech’s current Transportation Center is the only comprehensive Transportation Center in West-Central Minnesota, with the nearest Center approximately 250 miles away. A new Transportation Center is needed to accommodate the growth in Alex Tech’s Diesel Mechanics; Professional Truck Driver; and Marine, Motorcycle, and Powersports Technician programs.

Therefore, Alex Tech is requesting $34.4 million in state funding to build a new Transportation Center. The new building will allow the Diesel Mechanics and Professional Truck Driver programs to co-locate. Additionally, a portion of the existing building will be vacated and renovated to allow the Marine, Motorcycle, and Powersports Technician program to have an updated space needed for additional growth and technology.

“Updating the Transportation Center for students at Alex Tech will help keep the college on the cutting edge. This will ensure future students have the best technology and training for these important careers and jobs, which are in high demand,” Senator Westrom said.  

Additionally, the City of Alexandria is requesting an additional $7.2 million in state funding to design, construct, furnish and equip a renovation and expansion of the RCC, with a total project cost projected to be about $20 million. The proposed expansion will add approximately 81,600 square feet to the existing facility, which will accommodate both dry floor and ice events. Other new space includes community meeting rooms, wellness/training areas, administrative space, and locker rooms. The plan also includes expanding the parking area and improving drainage for the site.

“The expansion of the Runestone Community Center will offer additional recreational, civic and social opportunities for residents of West Central Minnesota,” Senator Westrom said. “By modernizing this regional facility, we will ensure the RCC continues to be a gathering place for generations to come.”

Learn more about the RCC expansion project, HERE.