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DEED seeks modest renewals for BDPI and TEDI; lawmakers urge larger investment for BDPI pipeline

Minnesota Senate Capital Investment Committee · February 20, 2026

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Summary

DEED asked for $2.5 million each for BDPI and TEDI infrastructure programs to support industrial and transportation-related economic development; members urged a larger BDPI appropriation to meet a reported $9 million pipeline of projects.

Kevin McKinnon, deputy commissioner at the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), presented two capital program requests included in the governor's recommendation: $2.5 million for the Business Development Public Infrastructure (BDPI) program (Greater Minnesota only) and $2.5 million for the Transportation Economic Development Infrastructure (TEDI) program.

McKinnon said BDPI helps cities pay for wastewater, drinking water, roads and utilities to support industrial expansion and that DEED typically provides up to 50% of project cost, with a two-year per-city cap. He said BDPI currently has a pipeline valued around $9 million but a program balance close to zero, which is why DEED requested replenishment.

Senator Jasinski and other members pressed for a larger BDPI appropriation, noting the program's ability to leverage private investment and local tax-base growth; Jasinski said she would not support a bonding bill with only $2.5 million for BDPI and advocated for a significantly larger amount based on local needs.

TEDI funding supports non-trunk-highway costs tied to local transportation projects and is administered collaboratively with MnDOT; McKinnon said TEDI is an important statewide tool with smaller pipelines but similar local impact.