St. Paul, MN – Today, State Representative Patti Anderson (R-Dellwood) presented her legislation, House File 232, to the House Capital Investment Committee. The bill would deliver $4 million in state bonding support for critical safety and pedestrian improvements along County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 32 and the realignment of Forest Road in Forest Lake.
Rep. Anderson was joined in committee by Forest Lake City Administrator Mark Statz, who testified in support of the project, emphasizing its broad community backing and importance to traffic flow, trail access, and public safety.
“This is a smart, shovel-ready investment that addresses long-standing safety concerns and improves access for families, students, and emergency vehicles,” said Rep. Anderson. “The City of Forest Lake has done the legwork and secured local and county support, and now simply needs the state to step up and be a partner in making this project a reality.”
The total cost of the project is estimated at $14.6 million, with Washington County contributing over $10 million and the City of Forest Lake providing $400,000. The state’s share of $4 million would enable the full buildout of much-needed upgrades.
Without state funding, the city would be forced to scale back to basic pavement rehabilitation, leaving key safety, environmental, and mobility improvements unaddressed.
“This project connects neighborhoods, protects our lake, and ensures a safer route for students walking and biking to school,” added Anderson. “It’s exactly the kind of regional infrastructure the bonding bill should prioritize.”
HF 232 awaits further action in the Capital Investment Committee as lawmakers continue to shape this year’s bonding package.
###