Walz to Announce More than $766,000 in Grants for Highway 14 Improvements

07/04/2008

(Mankato, MN) – Congressman Walz will announce that two sections of Highway 14 will receive federal funding, in preparation for the planned four lane expansion. The first section, from North Mankato to New Ulm will receive $315,000 to support the purchasing of the necessary right-of-way for the westerly four-lane expansion of the highway.

The second section, from Waseca to Owatonna will receive $451,000 to support utility relocations needed in preparation to construct a four-lane expressway between the two cites.


WHO: Congressman Tim Walz and Members of the Highway 14 Partnership

WHEN: Thursday, July 3 at 11:30am

WHERE: Maplewood Park (across from Kiessler’s Campgrounds on Hwy 14), Waseca, Minn


“This is a significant step in the right direction,” said Walz. “As we all know, Highway 14 is a dangerous road, more than 25 people have been killed on it in the past five years. It also creates added expenses for regional employers who rely on the road in its current worn out and undersized state to ship their goods.”

“The grant funding demonstrates the commitment of the federal government to be a partner in improving safety and commerce on this vitally important roadway.”

In 2007, Walz successfully earmarked nearly a million dollars for needed improvements to Highway 14. Walz has requested additional funding for Highway 14 this year.