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 $4,889,000 in funding in the Fiscal Year 2024 federal budget for the Western Mesabi Mine Planning Board. The funds would be used to help complete the unfinished 8.4 miles of the Cross Range Expressway from east of Taconite to Pengilly, MN. It is the only highway that connects many cities and their estimated 50,000 population from Grand Rapids to Virginia.

“The Cross Range Expressway will provide an important link for communities along the project’s corridor, from Taconite to Pengilly,” said Klobuchar. “With this federal grant, the expressway is a key step closer to completion.” 

“This funding will be transformational in the completion of the Cross Range Expressway,” said Smith. “Finally, the only highway that connects many cities and their residents from Grand Rapids through Taconite will be safe and functional. I am so glad to have the chance to secure federal investments for vital infrastructure projects for our state like this one that will directly improve the lives of Minnesotans.”

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.

###