Consent- Michelle Wolfe, City Manager
Title
Title
Authorizing Financial Commitment to the TH65 Project
end
Executive Summary
Background
The City of Blaine’s top priority is the reconstruction and improvement of TH65. Anoka County applied for a federal MEGA grant in the amount of $90.6 million. Grant reviewers recently asked for additional clarification regarding local funding. It is a positive step to know the application is receiving that level of review.
In response, the City of Blaine has committed up to $6 million dollars in local match. Previously, $2 million was committed; the funding source is the City’s allocation from Municipal State Aid (MSAS) funds. The City has requested funding from the Minnesota State Legislature; we remain hopeful of approved funding in the 2023 session. If we are not successful securing additional funding for the local match, we have committed up to an additional $4 million, for a total of $6 million. Anoka County has committed up to $8 million.
Strategic Plan Relationship
The TH65 project is a top priority in the city’s Strategic Plan.
Board/Commission Review
N/A
Financial Impact
Anoka County submitted an application for a MEGA grant. The amount requested is $90.6 million. These federal grants require local match dollars. The City previously committed $2 million, which will be funded via MSAS. With this action, the city is committing up to an additional $4 million. If the funding requested from the State legislature is approved in the 2023 session, or if other funds are identified, the city will not need to provide the $4 million match. If the city is unsuccessful identifying other funding sources, or receiving funds from the state, then the additional $4 million will also be funded via the city’s Municipal State Aid funds.
Public Outreach/Input
There have been multiple public outreach efforts and public meetings/open houses throughout the planning process for this project.
Staff Recommendation
By motion, approve the city’s commitment of up to $6 million in local match dollars for the TH65 improvement project.
Attachment List
Commitment Letter