Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to create the Rondo Restorative Development Authority to facilitate the development of a land bridge in the Rondo neighborhood of St. Paul. This initiative seeks to address historical racial inequities, as the construction of Interstate Highway 94 in the 1950s had a significant adverse impact on the Rondo community, involving the displacement of many homes and businesses.

Main Provisions

• Establishment of the Authority: The bill establishes the Rondo Restorative Development Authority as an independent public entity responsible for the development and management of the land bridge and related projects.

• Board Composition: The authority is managed by a 17-member board, which includes representatives appointed by community organizations, local government bodies, and state officials.

• Powers and Operations: The authority can acquire, manage, and dispose of property as necessary for the land bridge project. It may also enter into agreements with other governmental units regarding the land bridge's ownership and operation.

• Development Activities: Besides building the land bridge, the authority may fund infrastructure improvements and engage in community development activities. It has the power to establish and take part in nonprofit entities to assist in the project.

• Financial and Administrative Aspects: The authority has the ability to receive funding through gifts, grants, and loans and manage these resources according to applicable agreements.

• Exemptions: The land bridge project is exempt from certain legislative reviews and business subsidy requirements, allowing for more streamlined development processes.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill proposes new statutory provisions specifically for the establishment and operation of the Rondo Restorative Development Authority, detailing its powers, governance, and responsibilities in Minnesota Statutes chapter 116J.

Relevant Terms

Rondo Restorative Development Authority, land bridge, Interstate Highway 94, historical racial inequities, St. Paul, community development, public entity, nonprofit corporations, property acquisition, infrastructure improvement, government assistance.