Municipal

Funding Corner: 2026 Rewards Communities That Are Ready

By Amber Adams, Grants & Funding Program Manager, WSB

If you’re leading a local or tribal government right now, you’re likely managing the same mix we hear across the country: aging systems, rising costs, limited staff capacity, and community expectations that don’t slow down. The encouraging news is that 2026 still offers meaningful federal support for infrastructure but the communities that benefit most aren’t the ones that start when a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) drops. They’re the ones who have the essentials in place before the clock starts. 

Water Infrastructure Funding Remains a “Workhorse” in 2026 

State Revolving Funds (SRFs) continue to be one of the strongest channels for water, wastewater, and stormwater projects, with states receiving annual allotments and distributing funds on their own schedules. EPA has also highlighted recent SRF funding announcements that include allocations for states, Tribes, and territories, reinforcing the continued scale and relevance of these funding streams. 

SRF-supported priorities commonly include: 

• Water/wastewater treatment upgrades 

• PFAS and emerging contaminant mitigation 

• Stormwater and sewer overflow improvements 

• Lead service line replacement

• Distribution and collection system modernization 

EPA’s $4B Annual Environmental Funding Continues Strong Cycles 

EPA remains one of the largest and most consistent federal funders, awarding more than $4 billion each year in grants and assistance agreements to state and local governments, Tribes, universities, nonprofits, and other eligible entities. 

Many EPA opportunities recur over time, and preparedness is often the best differentiator especially for projects tied to compliance, resilience, stormwater, and environmental health outcomes. 

What This Means for Municipalities and Tribal Nations 

Taken together, these funding channels make one thing clear: 2026 isn’t just an application year; it’s a readiness year. Communities that prepare now are best positioned to move quickly as state programs, EPA regions, and recurring federal opportunities open funding windows. 

What We’re Seeing in Successful Communities 

Across the country, we’ve watched communities turn preparation into real results. Some can move quickly when funding windows open because they already have scopes, cost ranges, and key documentation in hand. Others reduce internal friction by using a simple one-page project summary to keep leadership aligned making it easier to respond confidently when opportunities surface. 

In every case, the common thread isn’t community size or geography, it’s readiness. 

5 Steady Steps Communities Can Take This Spring 

These are not high-pressure tasks; just steady moves that consistently help communities compete and deliver successfully. 

1. Focus on your most fundable priorities (start with two): Instead of trying to advance everything at once, identify the two projects with the clearest community benefit and strongest alignment with funding priorities public health protection, regulatory compliance, resilience, or service reliability. These themes match closely with how SRF and EPA programs evaluate projects. 
2. Create a one-page project snapshot for each priority: Include the problem, proposed solution, location, rough cost range, schedule, benefits, and what’s already done. This helps with leadership alignment and speeds up applications. 
3. Connect early with the right funding gatekeeper: For SRF, processes vary and are administered by states. For certain tribal set-aside programs, coordination may occur through EPA regions (and often with IHS involvement for delivery). 
4. Do a quick readiness check before the window opens: Ask yourself: Do we have a clear scope? Current cost estimates? Environmental or permitting needs identified? A realistic schedule? SRF and EPA-funded projects often slow down when readiness gaps emerge late, catching them now keeps your team confident and proactive. 
5. Sketch a practical funding stack: Not every project will be a perfect match for a single grant. Many successful projects braid SRF loans with local funds and other state/federal sources. Even a rough outline helps councils weigh options and positions you to move faster when opportunities open. 

A Final Encouraging Thought 

Communities that make steady, manageable steps now rather than reacting once a NOFO appears tend to secure more funding, reduce risk, and deliver projects more smoothly. With SRF and EPA funding mechanisms remaining major infrastructure levers, readiness is still one of the most reliable advantages a municipality or tribal nation can build. 

And if at any point you want a neutral perspective on where your projects stand or what documentation would strengthen your next submission, WSB is always here as a steady partner invested in your community’s long-term success. 

Preparedness & Mitigation: Building Safer, More Resilient Communities

By Allison Whitsitt, Director, Emergency Management, WSB

Being ready before disaster strikes is essential for protecting both residents and city operations. Preparedness and mitigation offer communities the opportunity to reduce risk, increase safety, and lower long‑term costs. These proactive efforts lay the foundation for confidence, resilience, and stability across all departments.

What Is Preparedness & Mitigation?

Before a disaster occurs, cities must understand their risks and rehearse their response. Preparedness focuses on planning, training, and coordination so staff know exactly how to act during an emergency. Mitigation strengthens the physical and operational systems that keep a city functioning, reducing future impacts from storms, infrastructure failures, or other hazards.

Benefits for Local Governments

Cities that invest in preparedness and mitigation plans experience fewer disruptions and are better equipped to protect budgets, operations, and community assets. These benefits extend across public works, administration, emergency operations, and long‑term capital planning.

• Reduces damage to public infrastructure: Reinforces vulnerable systems and reduces costly repairs.
• Strengthens emergency coordination: Ensures all departments understand their roles and communication pathways.
• Protects municipal budgets: Lowers unplanned recovery expenses and avoids reactive spending.
• Improves access to federal funding: FEMA‑aligned plans unlock grants that fund resilience projects.
• Enhances continuity of operations: Keeps essential city services running even when conditions deteriorate.

Benefits for Residents

When cities prepare effectively, residents feel it — not just during a disaster, but every day. Strong preparedness and mitigation plans create safer neighborhoods, reduce disruptions, and support community trust.

• Safer homes and neighborhoods during severe weather
• Fewer service outages across power, water, and road systems
• More reliable information when emergencies occur
• Stronger faith in local leadership and emergency processes

How We Support Cities

Our team guides cities through a comprehensive, data‑driven approach to preparedness and mitigation planning. By combining technology, expertise, and municipal understanding, we help communities plan smarter and act with confidence.

• Risk and vulnerability assessments
• FEMA‑compliant Hazard Mitigation Plans
• Preparedness drills and training exercises
• GIS- and AI‑powered mapping and analysis
• Infrastructure resilience recommendations tailored to local needs

Partner With Us

Building a resilient community requires more than plans on paper — it requires a partner who understands the complexities of municipal operations, the pressures city staff face, and the funding and regulatory landscape that shapes emergency planning. Our team brings decades of combined experience in FEMA‑aligned planning, hazard mitigation, GIS‑based risk analysis, military leadership, and hands‑on municipal support. We’ve helped communities of all sizes strengthen their infrastructure, secure critical federal funding, and build preparedness programs that truly work in real-world conditions.

By working with us, your city gains a dedicated partner invested in reducing risk, protecting public assets, and ensuring your residents are safer and better informed when emergencies occur. Whether you need help assessing vulnerabilities, securing grants, updating emergency plans, or training staff, we’re here to support every step of your preparedness and mitigation journey. Reach out to our Emergency Management team to start enhancing your city’s resilience today.

How Right of Way Agents Drive Success

By Shelly Woodall, Sr Right of Way Specialist, WSB

City infrastructure projects, whether building new roads, expanding utilities, or creating public spaces, are complex undertakings. They require more than engineering and construction expertise; they demand strategic land management and strong community relationships. This is where Right of Way (ROW) agents step in as essential partners for municipalities.

ROW agents ensure that projects move forward smoothly, on time, and within budget by managing the critical processes that connect city plans to private property realities. Below, we explore the comprehensive services ROW agents provide and why they are indispensable for successful city projects.

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Relationship Development with Landowners

Every project begins with trust. ROW agents build and maintain positive relationships with property owners, fostering open communication and addressing concerns early. This proactive approach minimizes conflict and sets the stage for cooperative solutions.

Permitting

Permitting can be a maze of local, state, and federal requirements. ROW agents navigate this complexity, securing timely approvals and ensuring compliance so projects stay on schedule.

Land Acquisition

Acquiring property rights is often the linchpin of a project. ROW agents manage the entire acquisition process, from initial outreach to closing, ensuring fair transactions and adherence to all regulations.

Title Work

A clear title is non-negotiable. ROW agents coordinate title searches, resolve encumbrances, and prepare documentation to protect the city’s investment and avoid legal complications.

Appraisals

Fair compensation starts with accurate valuation. ROW agents work with certified appraisers to deliver defensible property valuations that meet legal and ethical standards.

Land Surveys

Precision matters. ROW agents coordinate land surveys to establish boundaries and identify potential issues before construction begins, preventing costly surprises later.

Negotiations

Negotiation is both an art and a science. ROW agents bring experience and tact to secure agreements that balance project needs with property owner rights, reducing delays and disputes.

Eminent Domain

When voluntary acquisition isn’t possible, ROW agents guide municipalities through the eminent domain process, ensuring compliance with the Uniform Act and state laws while maintaining transparency and fairness.

Relocation Assistance

Displacement can be disruptive. ROW agents provide relocation assistance to residents and businesses, offering guidance and resources to ease transitions and minimize hardship.

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Partner with WSB for Comprehensive ROW Solutions

At WSB, we understand that right of way services are more than transactions, they’re about building trust and delivering results. Our team of experienced ROW agents offers all these services, backed by deep regulatory knowledge and a commitment to collaboration. Whether your city is planning a roadway expansion, utility project, or trail development, WSB is here to help you navigate every step of the process with confidence.

Ready to move your project forward? Connect with WSB today and discover how our ROW expertise can turn challenges into opportunities for your community.

Five Ways Cities Can Minimize Air and Water Pollution

By Eric Dargan, Director of Municipal Strategy, WSB

September 8th, 2025

Across the country, cities are facing growing challenges related to air and water pollution. Urban development, aging infrastructure, and climate change are intensifying the pressure on municipal systems. From stormwater runoff to vehicle emissions, the sources of pollution are varied and complex. Yet, cities have a unique opportunity to lead the way in environmental stewardship by adopting thoughtful, community-centered approaches. 

1. Invest in Green Infrastructure 

Green infrastructure such as rain gardens, permeable pavements, and vegetated swales can significantly reduce stormwater runoff and filter pollutants before they reach local waterways. These solutions not only improve water quality but also enhance urban aesthetics and biodiversity. 

2. Promote Sustainable Transportation 

Reducing reliance on fossil-fuel-powered vehicles is key to improving air quality and reducing air pollution. Cities can encourage walking, biking, and public transit through better infrastructure and incentives. Supporting the transition to electric vehicles and expanding charging networks also plays a vital role in lowering emissions. 

3. Modernize Wastewater and Stormwater Systems 

Outdated systems can leak contaminants into the environment. Upgrading pipes, treatment facilities, and monitoring technologies helps prevent overflows and ensures compliance with environmental regulations. Proactive maintenance and asset management are essential to long-term success. 

4. Use Data to Drive Decisions 

Environmental monitoring such as air and water quality sensors provides cities with the data needed to identify pollution sources and track improvements. Integrating this data into planning and operations enables smarter, more targeted interventions. 

5. Engage the Community 

Public education and engagement are powerful tools in pollution prevention. Cities can foster community involvement through outreach campaigns, school programs, and citizen science initiatives. When residents understand the impact of their actions, they’re more likely to support and participate in sustainability efforts. 

Cities have a critical role to play in protecting the environment and public health. By embracing innovative practices and engaging their communities, they can make meaningful progress toward cleaner air and water. WSB partners with municipalities to support these efforts bringing technical expertise, strategic planning, and a collaborative spirit to help cities achieve their environmental goals. 

The Next 30 Years of Civil Engineering

Shaping the Future with Innovation, Insight, and Integrity

As WSB celebrates 30 years of innovation and excellence, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the transformative advancements in civil engineering and to look ahead to the exciting future of our industry. Over the past three decades, we’ve witnessed remarkable progress—from the widespread adoption of email and the internet to breakthroughs in materials science and the evolution of CAD software. These innovations have revolutionized how we design, collaborate, and deliver projects.

Future Predictions
The next 30 years promise even greater developments. As infrastructure demands grow, firms that embrace new ways of doing business by leveraging technology, optimizing project delivery methods, and investing in the next generation of engineers will be best positioned for success. Artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and robotics are beginning to transform key aspects of business across various industries. In civil engineering, the enhancements of these tools will accelerate project timelines, improve safety, and elevate creativity through seamless collaboration. Advancements in model-based design and construction management, as well as predictive analytics will continue to enable engineers to model, test, and refine infrastructure systems in a virtual environment before breaking ground, reducing risk and improving outcomes.

Technology as an Empowering Force
It’s important to emphasize that these developments will not be replacing engineers but empowering them. We look at these technologies as valuable assistants to our staff. With data becoming more accessible, engineers will have the insights needed to develop smarter, more sustainable infrastructure while maintaining the critical human expertise that drives innovation. Technology will continue to redefine safety, efficiency, and precision in an industry that once relied on hand-drawn plans and manual machine control. As these tools evolve, they will unlock new possibilities in civil engineering, shaping a future that is more connected and resilient. To stay at the forefront of these industry shifts, WSB is actively partnering with various leading technology companies to develop forward-thinking solutions for our clients. Our commitment to investing in continuous learning and technical training will continue to differentiate us as a leader in the industry.

WSB’s Commitment to the Future
Over the past 30 years, the industrialization of technology has propelled civil engineering forward. The next 30 will be defined by even greater advancements, ethical considerations, and the ability to adapt to new challenges. As we navigate the future of our industry, one thing is certain: WSB will lead our industry through this transformation.

Embracing Sustainability with Envision® Framework

April 11, 2025
By Shawn Poe, Director of Municipal Services, WSB and Amy Fredregill, Senior Director of Sustainability, WSB

As we recognize Earth Month this April, it is imperative to emphasize sustainable and resilient practices in infrastructure projects. A comprehensive Sustainability Plan is most strategic, relevant and useful when it considers future capital projects planned within a community.

Introducing the Envision® Framework

One effective practice to incorporate is the Envision® framework — a holistic sustainability rating system designed to evaluate the resilience of various types of civil infrastructure.

Envision® serves as a tool for cities, consultants, and contractors, helping to deliver infrastructure that:

Utilizing the Envision® framework allows infrastructure projects to contribute positively to the environment by enhancing sustainability and resilience. This framework helps improve the quality of life for communities by addressing climate change, supporting public health, providing long-term economic benefits, and improving infrastructure longevity.

How WSB Can Help

The WSB team includes certified Envision Sustainability Professionals (ENV SP) who can support communities in integrating Envision® into their sustainability and resiliency plans, as well as transportation, transit, and other infrastructure projects. We offer comprehensive services including project assessment, strategy development, and implementation guidance to help municipalities align infrastructure projects with community goals. Our expertise ensures that sustainable, resilient, and equitable outcomes are achieved.

Professional Engineers Protect Public Health, Safety and Welfare

October 15, 2024
By Jim Stremel, Sr Professional Engineer, WSB

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the pressure on public infrastructure to meet the increasing demands of population growth, environmental changes, and technology has never been greater. As we navigate these challenges, the role of professional engineers in the public sector has become indispensable. These engineers are at the forefront of designing, constructing, and maintaining the essential systems and structures that serve our communities, from roads and bridges to water treatment facilities and sewer collections systems.

Employing a professional engineer for modernizing infrastructure seems like a logical requirement, but few people understand how licensure is related to the profession. Similar to how doctors view the Hippocratic oath, professional engineers are not only dedicated but required to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Professional engineers bring a blend of technical expertise, innovative thinking, and strategic planning to the table. They are not just problem solvers but also visionaries who foresee needs and challenges in the future. For instance, the integration of smart technologies into infrastructure projects can enhance efficiency and sustainability. Imagine roads that charge electric cars as they drive, or bridges equipped with sensors to monitor health and safety in real time. These are no longer figments of imagination but real possibilities with modern engineering.

However, the path to modernizing public infrastructure is fraught with complexities. Engineers must navigate regulatory environments, budget constraints, and the need for public consensus. Moreover, the ethical implications of large-scale engineering projects require careful consideration to ensure sustainable and equitable solutions. This balance between innovation, practicality, and ethics is where professional engineers truly excel.

Collaboration is another crucial element. By working closely with government officials, community leaders, and the public, engineers help to ensure that projects not only meet technical specifications but also serve the broader community interests. This collaborative approach fosters transparency and trust, which are essential for the successful implementation of any public project.

At WSB, we understand the critical role that professional engineers play in public infrastructure. Our team of experts is dedicated to partnering with government agencies to deliver innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. Whether it’s revitalizing aging infrastructure or pioneering new projects, WSB is equipped to help navigate the complexities of modern engineering challenges. With our comprehensive services and commitment to excellence, we are here to support our partners in building a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future.

By leveraging our expertise, WSB not only contributes to the physical landscape but also to the well-being and progress of the communities we serve. Let us help you turn visionary plans into reality, ensuring that today’s infrastructure can meet tomorrow’s demands.

The Value of Program Management

August 1, 2024
By Ang Points, Sr Project Manager, WSB

Cities, counties, and municipalities are growing at exponential rates, more now than ever before. Ensuring that these rapidly growing communities execute projects efficiently and effectively is necessary to meet the expectations of their stakeholders and current citizens and to prepare for the demands on existing and even new infrastructure. However, there is often too much work that current staff cannot handle alone, and cities may not be able to hire enough or qualified full-time staff to support the demands. Program Management provides support for cities that do not have the capacity or ability to take on these programs or projects themselves as an immediate, even short-term solution that is flexible and scalable to meet the ever-changing demands of a city.

Through Program Management, we partner and work alongside city staff, interweaving and executing work on behalf of the city as an extension of the staff. It provides technical knowledge and design as well as valuable expertise and support in project management, contract management, communications with elected officials and stakeholders, building financial strategies and more.

To best support our clients in Program Management needs, our team of experts use the 3 T’s— technology, transparency and teamwork.

Technology

To build an effective and efficient program, technology is key. It is the foundation of the 3 T’s, and only through technology can we build a collaborative team and establish trust with the public, stakeholders and elected officials.

Using Smartsheet, Power BI, Teams, Bluebeam, Primavera 6, and communication tools — we can increase knowledge and awareness of the city’s projects and efficiently and effectively connect with all those involved in the execution of projects. Reliable data and information at the fingertips of decision makers and the public creates an environment of trust. Technology is a driving factor in moving these programs forward.

Transparency

The public’s tax dollars are the reasons these projects get accomplished— its only right to keep the public informed. It is best practice to be proactive when providing information and make it easily accessible. This can be done by creating a website designed specifically for the program with a Power BI dashboard. The dashboard shares financial data including where the funding is coming from, the designated uses of those dollars, and even spending projections. Monthly newsletters and project-by-project updates on the website give stakeholders the ability to access information without requesting it through official channels.

By sharing this information with the public and providing it at their fingertips, you are funding transparency. This will put taxpayers at ease and build trust for the ongoing program. For internal decision makers, tools like Teams, Smartsheet and PowerBI are key to seeing the overall program down to dollar-for-dollar and even day-to-day details in real-time.

We have seen great success from taking this approach with a recent project, with the City of Buda and their 2021 Buda Bond Program.

Teamwork

A goal of Project Management is to integrate our teams and work collaboratively across all levels of effort. This is best accomplished through using Teams. Being responsive and available as a consultant to the city staff is critical, and joining the same Teams platform alleviates any challenges of connecting. This type of teamwork makes us reachable, responsive, and able to collaborate daily and on-demand to all levels of staff. This level of teamwork using Teams and even Bluebeam also allows ourselves, the city’s consultants, and city staff to work interactively on documents and decisions more easily.

Smartsheet, an elite, interactive tool, significantly improves collaboration and consistency. Its advanced capabilities of storing documents and unique viewership of history and updates strengthens workflows. Smartsheet makes coordinating with teams, making decisions, and viewing progress more efficient.

How WSB can Help

Program Management is a tool and service available to cities, but we know to be successful you must rely on the 3 T’s. Our experienced team provides your staff with technical excellence and additional support, and we also prioritize using advanced technology to prepare you for the future while building trust with the public and increasing collaboration. Technology, transparency and teamwork will drive projects forward, and we are here to offer scalable, flexible, and effective support.

Our Program Management team is more than designers— we effortlessly integrate all aspects from writing council reports and presentations, projecting budgets and financial actions, managing contracts on behalf of the city, presenting to the public, engaging with consultants, creating finance and management strategies, and executing plans in design and in project management. Our team has the expertise to build innovative and feasible strategies, and compiles everything into organized workflows that can then be shared with city staff in real-time. With increasing demands on cities, we can integrate workflows using technology to make processes and procedures more efficient and less time consuming.

We understand how cities operate and what cities want and need – we have first-hand experience in the city staff’s shoes. We are eager to support cities as they Forge Ahead.

What Is Driving the Demand for Bike and Pedestrian Park Space?

May 20, 2024

Published by League of Minnesota Cities in the May-June month’s issue of the Minnesota Cities Magazine. MN Cities Magazine May-June

In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for bike and pedestrian park spaces across the nation, which has also become prevalent in cities across Minnesota. The trend reflects a shift in societal values. There are several factors we are seeing connected to this trend, including public engagement influencing demand, recognition of bicycle and pedestrian park space benefits, and the effects these types of park spaces have on city infrastructure.

Public engagement

Public engagement is increasingly encouraging communities to prioritize investments in bicycle and pedestrian park space, reflecting a growing interest in recreational spaces and active transportation corridors. As community members and stakeholders become more vocal about their desire for healthier, safer, and more sustainable communities, decision makers are responding by allocating resources to expand and enhance infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians.

Advancements in technology, such as social media, have provided new methods to collect citizens’ feedback and has led to an increase in community engagement participation. These methods allow cities to notify community members about opportunities through a variety of channels, which reach a high percentage of the people in each area. Online interactive maps, comment boards, and virtual meetings — methods spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic — allow for greater participation and input than only hosting in-person events.

The pandemic also underscored the importance of outdoor spaces for recreation and social distancing, while also emphasizing park spaces and trails that cater to diverse user groups. By engaging the community, cities and counties can clearly understand needs and are better prepared to provide meaningful bike and pedestrian experiences.

Health benefits

Bicycle and pedestrian park spaces offer a multitude of benefits that contribute to the health, activity, and environment of a city. Regarding health: bike and pedestrian park spaces promote physical activity and healthier lifestyles by providing safe and accessible trails for walking, jogging, and cycling, which can lead to a reduction in the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and heart disease. These spaces are designed to be accessible to all age groups and abilities. Research provided by City Parks Alliance found that walking loops increase park use by 80%.

Connectivity

Infrastructure that allows bicycle and pedestrian park spaces fosters connectivity between neighborhoods, business districts, and recreational areas — enhancing overall mobility and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.

Communities, big and small, are experiencing improved connectivity, heightened accessibility to amenities, and a revitalization of public spaces spurred on by bike and pedestrian focused infrastructure. Properties located near parks and trail corridors typically attract investment, as parks and trails are often viewed as desirable amenities that enhance quality of life and contribute to a higher standard of living. According to City Parks Alliance, houses near parks or trails have 8-10% higher property values than those in the surrounding community.

Bike and pedestrian park spaces contribute to the creation of vibrant and inclusive communities by providing opportunities for social interaction and recreation — fostering a sense of belonging and connection among residents. These spaces provide opportunities for people to connect with nature, even in urban environments, which has shown positive effects on mental well-being and reducing stress.

Environmental factors

In regard to the environment, prioritizing bike and pedestrian infrastructure promotes active transportation and encourages residents to opt for emission-free modes of transportation, reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. By promoting active transportation and reducing reliance on cars, bicycle and pedestrian park spaces contribute to more sustainable and resilient cities, with improved mobility, accessibility, and environmental stewardship. Bicycle and pedestrian corridors also provide habitat corridors for wildlife, contributing to the biodiversity within a community.

Notable challenges

While these spaces offer many benefits, a few challenges of incorporating bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure may include funding, maintenance, site constraints, and community opposition. The expansion of bicycle and pedestrian park space significantly impacts city infrastructure, ushering in a wave of changes to communities.

Cities across Minnesota are seeing an increase in demand for bicycle and pedestrian park space attributed to an increase in community engagement participation and acknowledgement of the health, recreational, and environmental benefits. Cities have continued to adapt to this evolving infrastructure demand through comprehensive planning efforts and investment in park and trail infrastructure. By implementing these improvements, communities can enhance their quality of life for residents and position themselves as an attractive destination for tourists.

Recap of the 2024 Minnesota Legislative Session

June 14, 2024
By Jacob Ringstad, Graduate Engineer, WSB

The end of the 2024 Minnesota legislative session in St. Paul brought opportunities for communities across Minnesota. With changes to regulations and new grant investment opportunities, now is the time for communities to dive into better understanding of what happened this session and what changes and opportunities resulted from this year’s session. I was able to discuss with Anne Finn, Director of the League of Minnesota Cities’ Intergovernmental Relations, about the impact on cities for this session.

Budgets and Bonding

This year, lawmakers did not pass a capital investment bill. Many communities see a lack of a bonding bill as detrimental to asset preservation and local infrastructure. This failed bonding bill contained building asset preservation, money to remove lead and PFAs from local water systems, and $40 million dedicated to local communities. Additionally, the bonding bill failing to pass this year likely means there will be a large appetite for a bill in the 2025 legislative session. Communities with future construction projects and bonding needs must stay up-to-date and plan for what is to come in 2025. Anne encourages these cities to continue meeting with their representatives about the importance of these funds in your communities.

Efforts to Improve our Transportation

The 2024 session saw an additional $11.35 million investment in the Small Cities Assistance Program. These funds will be evenly distributed to cities with populations under 5,000 starting July 1st. These funds can be used to improve city assets and even include an option to use the money to pay debt service on bonds. One new policy opportunity Anne mentioned was state guidelines were enacted for establishing pedestrian malls. This new law will help to guide communities looking to expand pedestrian transportation and safety in high density areas.

A Focus on Environment

The 2024 legislative session saw massive investment from the Environment and Natural Resources Budget and Policy bill. An additional $46 million will be invested into programs dedicated to protecting Minnesota’s water, air, soil and wildlife. Anne specifically mentioned, “New grant programs created for community tree planting with $8 million for statewide use and another $3 million dedicated to the seven-county metro area.” To maximize use of this new funding, construction projects that can highlight sustainability should keep a close watch on these new investments and be ready as soon as the grants become available.

Expanding Housing Infrastructure Grant Program

Alongside new funding, counties are now able to take advantage of opportunities previously limited to cities. Under the 2024 legislative session, the Greater Minnesota Housing Infrastructure Grant Program was expanded to include county-managed construction projects, creating new opportunities, such as the development of housing, streets, water supply systems, sewers, utilities and more.

How WSB Can Help?

The 2024 session included several new state investments and policy changes that impact communities. With WSB, communities can feel secure with a talented team of experts who will help walk you through finding funding, applying for grants and ensuring every opportunity is on the table for your projects.