Congress Passed Funding Bills with Resources for Minnesota Projects Secured by Klobuchar, Smith

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that they secured $500,000 in funding in the Fiscal Year 2024 federal budget for the Merriam Junction Trail and Riverbank Stabilization project. The project will convert 2.2 miles of abandoned rail bed, swampland, and shoreline trails to a resilient regional multi-use, accessible destination trail connecting Scott and Carver Counties across the Minnesota River. Klobuchar and Smith requested the funding along with U.S. Representative Angie Craig (D-MN).

"The Merriam Junction Trail project will expand outdoor recreation opportunities for residents in Scott and Carver Counties," said Klobuchar. "This federal grant will provide more opportunities for hiking and biking and boost economic growth and tourism in the area."

"Minnesota is a proud outdoors state, and our trails are second to none," said Smith. "I'm glad to have secured this funding that will help expand our trails network, bring more tourists and economic development to Scott and Carver County, and create even more recreation opportunities for families in the area."

Klobuchar and Smith have been actively involved in securing this federal funding for projects benefiting communities across the state through a process called "Congressionally Directed Spending" (CDS). During the CDS process, Klobuchar and Smith have considered project proposals and advocated for funding in close coordination with leaders from across the state.

Projects are expected to receive funding over the next several months.

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