New multimodal shared-use trail from La Crescent to Hokah and Houston bond issue and appropriation

This bill authorizes the issuance of up to $4.75 million in state bonds to fund the construction of an 18-mile multimodal shared-use trail extending the Root River State Trail from La Crescent to Hokah and Houston. The funds will be used for property acquisition, environmental reviews, design work, and preliminary engineering for the trail, which will follow existing roadways and rail corridors through the Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway. Any remaining unspent funds after the initial phase can be used for final engineering and construction of the bike trail. The legislation is effective immediately upon enactment and directs the commissioner of natural resources to manage the project.