Three-hundred million dollars in new bonding for the University of Minnesota and state colleges and universities, is what Governor Tim Walz is asking the legislature to approve as part of his nearly 1.3-billion-dollar bonding proposal. He says, “150 million for Minnesota State would support more than 70 projects planned for over 40 campuses to ensure buildings are accessible, safe, secure and energy-efficient.” And Walz says 150 million dollars for the U-of-M will preserve and upgrade infrastructure on campuses in Crookston, Morris, Duluth, Rochester and Minneapolis/St. Paul.
Republicans say Walz’s request is a year too early because 2019 is a budget year, not bonding. The governor responds current interest rates are very favorable to make much-needed investments in Minnesota’s infrastructure.