(Editor’s Note: The following column was submitted by Sen. Tina Smith.)

After advocating here in Washington, I’m excited to share that over 70 Minnesota projects will receive over $130 million in federal funding to improve transportation and infrastructure, education, housing, public safety, and more. Senator Amy Klobuchar and I worked closely with leaders across the state to secure this funding and ensure projects ranging from health care to broadband receive the support they need.

Although only a few projects are highlighted here, these are some examples of the variety of industries and areas in Minnesota that will benefit. I look forward to seeing how this funding fuels projects that will directly improve the lives of Minnesotans.

Expanding Health Care Services

The Native American Community Clinic’s expansion will enable it to serve twice the number of patients, provide new services such as COVID-19 care and recovery, and create new jobs in the Minneapolis community. The clinic has provided culturally responsive health programming and critical telehealth services, testing pop-ups, and vaccination clinics during the pandemic. Over the past two years, the number of employees has already doubled, and this funding will allow the clinic to serve even more of Minneapolis’s urban Indigenous community.

Bringing Economic Growth to NW MN

The Thief River Falls Regional Airport Air Cargo Development will provide and support jobs in the region, helping surrounding industries grow. Specifically, the funding will help pre-design, design, construct, furnish, and equip a cargo hangar.

Providing Childcare Options

A new childcare facility in Little Falls is critical to ensuring families in the community have affordable, available childcare options. This funding will not only help build a new facility, but it will also help cover operating costs for the center.

Improving Energy Efficiency in S MN

The Blue Earth County Energy Efficiency Project will bring environmental and economic benefits, including creating new jobs in southern Minnesota. The project includes the installation of solar panels to power buildings and county-wide energy efficiency measures. Also, it involves the addition of electric vehicle charging stations and a geothermal heating and cooling system.