Rep. Omar Advances $32.5 Million in Minnesota Funding in House Surface Transportation Package
Press Release
Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) advanced funding for four community projects in Minnesota's 5th District, totaling $32.5 million. These provisions passed as part of the INVEST in America Act, the House's surface transportation bill. The projects include $5 million for the Metro F line from Downtown Minneapolis to Fridley, $4.5 million for the Metro E line between Edina and the University of Minnesota, and $3 million for the Cedar-Seward pedestrian bridge at I-94. The package will also provide over $20 million for the METRO Blue Line Extension Light Rail Transit project, which will extend the existing Blue Line LRT from Target Field Station northwest to Brooklyn Park and connect communities along the way.
The package also included Rep. Omar's bill requiring a report on barriers to public transportation faced by people in poverty, and an amendment that allows local communities to use federal grants to build freeway cap parks or decks with parks, which will help reintegrate communities, conceal traffic, reduce air pollution, and provide green space.
"For far too long, members of our community have encountered barriers to access both public transportation and greenery in their neighborhoods," said Rep. Omar. "I am glad this package includes my provisions to address the long-standing disparities and invest resources needed to help future generations thrive. The community project funds will also help connect underserved communities and make our city more accessible to people commuting into Minneapolis. This passage is crucial to help us rebuild and reinvest resources to support our communities."
The INVEST in America Act makes transformative investments in America's infrastructure, creates millions of jobs, advances bold action on the climate crisis, invests in affordable housing, and expands affordable high-speed internet to marginalized communities. This legislation reinvests in communities and addresses long-standing disparities.
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