7/25/2009
By Matt Russell
Post-Bulletin, Rochester MN

PINE ISLAND A boost was given to a proposed interchange for the Elk Run biotechnology development Friday as it received $14.56 million in funding from the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

The money is “the first key phase” in the funding for the interchange at U.S. 52 and Olmsted County Highway 12 in Pine Island, said MnDOT spokeswoman Kristine Hernandez.

More money is needed for the estimated $35.6 million interchange, but Hernandez said the $14.56 million will show Elk Run developer Tower Investments that progress is being made on getting an interchange built.

“This will kind of send a message to Tower that we are serious about getting this interchange funded and moving forward so they can make the commitments they need to the city of Pine Island and keep the process going,” Hernandez said.

Elk Run is a 2,325-acre master-planned development that would include a biobusiness park, commercial development, residential areas, and a wellness community.

The $14.56 million for the Elk Run interchange comes from a $30 million pot of money for interchange projects in greater Minnesota.

MnDOT received 13 applications for funding and awarded money to three projects, with interchanges in the St. Cloud and Albertville areas also getting money.

“The fact that Elk Run got half (of the $30 million), that’s pretty significant,” Hernandez said.

“Obviously we recognize this is a huge issue for our area for economic stimulation as well as traffic safety.”

Under the best-case scenario, construction would start on the Elk Run interchange this fall and be completed by the end of next year, Hernandez said. But with only partial funding secured so far, she said it’s more likely construction will start next year.

Pine Island city administrator Abraham Algadi and Mayor Paul Perry couldn’t be reached for comment Friday afternoon.

Elk Run investor G. Steven Burrill, CEO of Burrill & Co., recently told the Star Tribune that Tower is close to securing millions in federal stimulus money for the interchange.

Source: Post Bulletin, Rochester, MN

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