As the 2020 legislative session begins on Feb. 11, the state has a $1.3 billion general fund surplus and is expected to consider a sizable bonding bill. In previous years—including 2018 when the Legislature approved funding for Highway 14 between Owatonna and Dodge Center—the bonding bill has presented significant opportunities for corridor projects like Highway 14.

This year, the dynamics are a little more complicated, with many members of the Legislature hesitant to invest in individual road projects without passage of a larger transportation bill that includes funding increases, such as gas tax and tab fee increases.

The Highway 14 Partnership will continue to deliver the message that projects like 14 are too important to wait. We are working actively with Highway 14-area legislators on strategies to fix 14 this year. Keep an eye out for future updates on new bill introductions and legislative hearings.