Watch CBS News

AP Interview: Dayton Seeks $209 Million To Refurbish Capitol

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Gov. Mark Dayton says finishing the restoration of Minnesota's Capitol is a top priority for state construction projects in the coming two years.

The Democratic governor told The Associated Press in an interview Friday that he will seek $209 million for work on the aging 107-year-old Capitol in a bonding bill.

Dayton said the money could come in two chunks or all at once, but it's needed to keep the restoration project going. Without the money, Dayton said the project would "grind to a halt."

The state's economic forecast, released this week, said the state has the capacity to borrow $1.3 billion for construction projects over the next two years.

The Republican-controlled Legislature approved a $500 million construction package last year, including $44 million for the Capitol.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.