Local government entities in Minneapolis are hoping for a windfall of capital dollars from the state's economic development office.
The Department of Employment and Economic Development is preparing to dole out $47.5 million in bonding money in September. Three Minneapolis entities are among the 90 applications seeking $288 million.
The City of Minneapolis has requested $25 million from the state to help redesign Nicollet Mall.
That follows the city's unsuccessful quest to secure similar funds in the annual bonding bill, likely for eliminating or reducing the Mall's curbs, redesigning facades and extending the walkway to the river. The $58 million project is expected to be a public/private partnership.
The Minneapolis school district is looking for $2.7 million to update athletic facilities. DEED received more letters regarding the school district project than any other request.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board wants $750,000 to renovate the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. That's a small figure compared to the $8.5 million that officials said was needed to repair the garden's turf, trees and walkways.
