Red Lake Nation will make nearly 11 miles of road safer and more accessible with a $25 million federal grant.
Minnesota Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith announced the grant Monday, Jan. 13.
"If we're going to build an economy that works for everyone, then we need to prioritize investments in vital infrastructure, like highways, that connect people with opportunities across the state," Smith said in a news release.
The money will be used to reconstruct just 1.2 miles of State Highway 1. The tribe will also rehabilitate 4 miles of Walking Shield Road and extend it 5.5 miles east. Roughly 11 miles of shared-use paths will also be built.
Other improvements include street lights, cultural elements, a new roundabout and other intersection enhancements, widened shoulders, sidewalks, access improvements, culvert replacements, new guardrail and stormwater and drainage improvements.
The grants are part of the Department of Transportation’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity program. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law increased the program’s funding by 50%.
"Rebuilding our infrastructure is critical for families, workers, and businesses everywhere — including in Tribal communities," Klobuchar said. "These infrastructure projects will create good jobs, support new businesses, and make traveling safer for drivers and pedestrians."
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