Appropriations Committee Invests in Minnesota Priority Projects
Press Release
Congresswoman McCollum understands that Minnesota communities and families are struggling in this difficult economy. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, she is working to meet the needs of the East Metro by helping to provide critical community investments. The House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, which Congresswoman McCollum belongs to, voted to approve its $32.24 billion fiscal year 2011 funding bill for public lands and national parks, the Environmental Protection Agency, programs serving Native Americans, and cultural investments This also includes the following priorities for the 4th Congressional District:
* City of Maplewood: Gerten Pond Improvements - $1,000,000. A major urban body of water, the Gerten Pond serves a large industrial and residential area in Maplewood, Minnesota. The requested funding will support improvements, drainage system revisions, and local environmental improvements to enhance the efficiency of storm water sewers.
* Aeon: Renaissance Box Restoration and Housing Development - $350,000. Support for this project will help convert the abandoned factory - formerly known as the O'Donnell Shoe Factory - into 70 affordable housing units and retain historic elements of the structure. This development will house formerly homeless persons and low-income working families.
* Voyageurs National Park Association, United States Forest Service, Land and Water Conservation Fund: Voyageurs National Park - $366,500. A premier water-based national park, the Voyageurs National Park preserves a rich cultural history, natural environment and recreational opportunities. Funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund will acquire 5 parcels of land, comprising 73 acres, within the park's boundaries. These highly-visible lakeshore properties are at significant risk of new development and property subdivision if purchased by new private owners. Acquiring this land will allow visitor access to the park's lakeshores and sandy beaches while also preserving critical wildlife habitat.
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