[ST. PAUL, MN] – Joined by representatives from Minnesota labor unions, Governor Tim Walz kicked off a statewide Local Jobs and Projects tour today to highlight bonding projects under consideration for his capital investment proposal for the 2022 legislative session. Attached are photos from the tour kick off at the Duluth Seawall, a bonding project funded by the 2020 Local Jobs and Projects Plan.

“I’m excited to announce that we’re launching a statewide Local Jobs and Projects tour to hear directly from Minnesotans about the local infrastructure projects that matter most to them,” said Governor Walz. “Whether that's roads and bridges, clean water infrastructure, or affordable housing, a strong Local Jobs and Projects plan helps ensure every community across Minnesota prospers.”

“This is about our future. A robust Local Jobs and Projects Plan is going to be key to coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic with a stronger and more equitable economy,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “We know that when we listen to and partner with our communities, we get better results. We’re looking forward to putting together a bonding package that strengthens local economies by investing in our small towns and big cities and increases economic opportunity for every Minnesotan.”

“We are listening to individual communities about their needs and their message is clear: cities and towns across Minnesota want the state to invest in their communities,” Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Jim Schowalter. “To date, preliminary requests for the 2022 capital budget total nearly $5.5 billion: $4.2 billion from state agencies and $1.2 billion – nearly a quarter of requests – from local governments.”

Last year, Governor Walz signed the largest bonding package passed in Minnesota history into law. The $1.9 billion 2020 Local Jobs and Projects Plan invests in construction and renovation projects across the state, creating thousands of good-paying jobs for Minnesotans. The plan was built with unprecedented public input. For the first time, Minnesotans had the opportunity to comment on all bonding projects submitted for consideration. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan also embarked on the first-ever Governor’s bonding tour to visit local projects across the state.