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March 13, 2009 8:54 AM

Budget commissioner tells Congress how MN will spend stimulus

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Tom Hanson — Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Tom Hanson.
MPR Photo/Tim Nelson

Minnesota Commissioner for Finance and Budget Tom Hanson is in Washington today to discuss how Minnesota will spend its share of President Obama's economic stimulus package.

Hanson says the state's share of stimulus funding will be most visible on roadways, where drivers will experience what he calls "double the construction season."

"We've already announced some of our stimulus projects, and we will be announcing shortly our regular construction season. So, you're going to see a lot of more highway construction this year than any other year, probably in your life," said Hanson.

Unlike some states, Hanson says Minnesota will use most every dollar in the stimulus package.

He says the only exceptions would be if requirements to match funding on certain projects cancel out the project's benefits. Hanson said that would add up to "minor dollar amounts."

MPR's Cathy Wurzer spoke with Commissioner Hanson.

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Tom Hanson — Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Tom Hanson.
MPR Photo/Tim Nelson

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