EVELETH, Minn. — Senator Grant Hauschild (DFL-Hermantown) announced (Wednesday, August 9, 2023) that the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB) allocated $2m for public works projects and regional trail improvements across Northern Minnesota in District 3. The investments, which are expected to create an estimated 94 construction jobs in District 3, were approved at the IRR-RB’s special meeting Wednesday in Eveleth.
“The investments announced today will create good union jobs from Orr to Silver Bay, while relieving local property taxpayers of burden-some costs for local infrastructure and regional trail improvements,” said Senator Hauschild. “These forward-looking investments will help with the severe housing shortage we face in northern Minnesota, invest in critical water & transportation infrastructure, and create more connections through our trail systems. I’m proud to have advocated for these efforts as a board member of the IRRRB.”
“With a new housing development project lacking financing to make the project viable, I immediately contacted our local legislators for support,” remarked Silver Bay Mayor Wade LeBlanc. “Senator Hauschild advocated on our behalf with the IRRRB to ensure our project was considered in an expedited fashion given we faced a construction deadline of the end of August. Housing availability is one of the biggest challenges we face and I’m grateful to Senator Hauschild, Representative Skraba, and Commissioner Rukavina for prioritizing it.”
Senator Hauschild said that there are four public works projects in District 3 totaling $1,379,911 and three regional trail improvements totaling $650,000.
Public Works:
Silver Bay ($500,000): Housing development infrastructure and site work
Bois Forte Band of Chippewa ($386,500): Vermillion Public Works Facility construction
Grand Marais ($250,000): Fifth Avenue West infrastructure and road construction
Orr ($243,411): Replacement of Regional Airport’s outdated fueling system
Regional Trails:
St. Louis & Lake Counties Regional Railroad Authority ($500,000): Complete 5-mile gap on Mesabi Trail
Lutsen Trailbreakers Snowmobile Club ($100,000): Trail bridge replacement on Poplar River
North Superior Ski and Run Club ($50,000): Snow cat groomer to groom Pincushion Nordic ski trails
