WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that the House of Representatives passed legislation that included $2,800,000 in funding for a project to upgrade infrastructure in Pine County. This project, which Klobuchar and Smith worked to include, will help replace the aging County Road 61 bridge over Snake River. Klobuchar and Smith requested the funding along with U.S. Representative Pete Stauber (R-MN). The bill now goes to the Senate for final passage. 

“The County Road 61 bridge is approaching 50 years of service, and it needs to be replaced. The federal grant I secured will deliver resources for the bridge replacement project so drivers can continue to cross Snake River safely,” said Klobuchar.

“Fixing bridges isn’t only important for safety, it’s about keeping our communities connected to jobs, schools, essential services, and local businesses. This federal funding is a major win for Pine City, giving them the support needed to replace the aging 50-year-old bridge that carries over 8,400 vehicles daily over the Snake River,” said Smith. “This investment in infrastructure is essential for keeping Pine City connected and thriving. Residents will have a safer and smoother commute, and businesses will have a reliable link to the resources they need to succeed.” 

The County Road 61 bridge located in Pine City over the Snake River was constructed in 1976 and carries 8,400 vehicles per day. In the last 5 years, the prestressed box girders and steel shell piling have shown signs of significant deterioration and have reduced the capacity of the bridge requiring a load posting.

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.

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