Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to support small businesses that are negatively affected by the construction on Trunk Highway 65 in the city of Blaine, Minnesota. It provides financial assistance through construction mitigation grants to help these businesses overcome disruptions caused by the project.

Main Provisions

• Grant Eligibility and Definitions: Grants are available to qualified small businesses with up to 40 employees that face significant negative impacts lasting at least one month due to construction work. These impacts include loss of road access, parking, or visibility.

• Construction Details: The bill specifically addresses the highway construction at intersections along Trunk Highway 65, including several avenues in Blaine and associated road systems.

• Grant Distribution: The Commissioner of Employment and Economic Development, with input from the Commissioner of Transportation, will award grants. The prioritization of these grants will consider the extent of revenue decline, the construction duration, proximity to the construction site, and traffic disruptions.

• Use of Grant Funds: Businesses can use the funds for employee payroll, operating expenses, or facility costs. However, the grants cannot be used for bonuses, purchasing new equipment, or undertaking capital improvements or expansions.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Reporting Requirement: By January 15, 2027, and every year until the project's completion, the Commissioner must report to legislative committees overseeing employment, economic development, and transportation. This report should detail each grant awarded, including the business's name, address, type, and award amount.

Relevant Terms

• Trunk Highway 65
• Mitigation grants
• Economic development
• Construction impacts
• Small business assistance
• Blaine roadway improvements