Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to provide funding for the Mississippi River Learning Center project in St. Paul, Minnesota. The bill seeks to support the construction and setup of facilities at the Crosby Farm Regional Park to enhance the area’s offerings related to learning and engagement with the Mississippi River.

Main Provisions

• Appropriation of Funds: The bill authorizes an appropriation of $10,000,000 from the bond proceeds fund to the Metropolitan Council. These funds are designated specifically as a grant to the city of St. Paul.
• Use of Funds: The allocated funds will be used to construct, furnish, and equip marina buildings, as well as make site improvements at Crosby Farm Regional Park as part of the Mississippi River Learning Center project. This includes preparations for site development, construction of trails, improving vehicular access, and creating marina-related amenities.

Significant Changes

• State Bond Sale: The bill permits the sale and issuance of up to $10,000,000 in state bonds to fund this project. This allows the state to raise the necessary funds through debt to support this capital investment.
• Additional Appropriation: The funding provided by this bill is in addition to a prior appropriation made in the 2023 legislative session (Laws 2023, chapter 72, article 1, section 17, subdivision 5), indicating continued or expanded support for the project.

Relevant Terms

• Capital investment
• Mississippi River Learning Center
• St. Paul
• State bonds
• Metropolitan Council
• Crosby Farm Regional Park
• Site preparation
• Marina facilities