Greenfield Mayor Veil advocates for $1.4M funding for crucial road improvements

Greenfield's infrastructure woes took center stage at the Minnesota House Capital Investment Committee meeting on March 27, 2025, as local leaders pushed for additional funding to complete critical road improvements. Mayor Nick Veil of Greenfield highlighted the dire state of Greenfield Road, the city's main thoroughfare, which has been plagued by water pooling and mud, causing school buses and emergency vehicles to become stuck.

Veil emphasized that the road, originally a logging route from the 1800s, has seen only minimal upgrades over the years. He noted that the city has already contributed significantly to the project, but additional state funding is crucial to finish the necessary improvements. The total cost of the project is estimated at $5.5 million, with Greenfield requesting an additional $1.39 million after receiving $3 million from the 2023 bonding bill.

Representative Robbins, who advocated for the request, underscored the importance of this project, stating that Greenfield has not received state bonding for at least 15 years. The committee's support could be pivotal in ensuring the completion of this essential infrastructure, which not only serves the community's transportation needs but also enhances safety for pedestrians, especially following a recent tragic incident on the road.

In addition to Greenfield's request, the meeting also featured discussions on other pressing infrastructure needs across Minnesota, including a $15 million request for Howard Lake's outdated wastewater treatment facility and a $12.9 million proposal from Flensburg to address severe water and sewer issues. These discussions reflect a broader urgency among Minnesota communities to secure funding for essential infrastructure improvements that directly impact public health and safety.

As the committee continues to evaluate these requests, the outcomes could significantly shape the future of infrastructure in these small towns, highlighting the critical role of state support in local governance.