Bill > SF2520

This bill establishes a grant program to provide financial assistance to small businesses on Arcade Street and East 7th Street in St. Paul that are negatively impacted by a major road construction and redesign project. The Department of Employment and Economic Development will work with a local community-based development organization to distribute $2.2 million in grants to qualified businesses with 25 or fewer employees experiencing substantial business impacts such as reduced road access, parking difficulties, or decreased visibility for at least one month. Grant recipients can use the funds for payroll, operating expenses, or facility costs, but cannot use the money for bonuses, new equipment, or capital improvements. The grants will be awarded based on factors like revenue decline, construction duration, proximity to construction, traffic disruption severity, and pedestrian/bicycle access challenges. The bill requires annual reporting to legislative committees, including details about each grant recipient, starting in January 2027 and continuing until the project is completed. The appropriation is a one-time funding allocation available until June 30, 2029, with up to 2% allowed for administrative costs.

Labor and Employment, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2520&ssn=0&y=2025