Bill seeks private money to celebrate Capitol reopening

A sign announces the lack of access.
A sign announces the lack of access to the State Capitol on March 10, 2016 in St. Paul.
Jim Mone | AP

Today the Minnesota Senate is expected to debate a bill that would allow private fundraising to pay for a celebration of the reopening of the state Capitol.

The three-year renovation project, which will cost over $300 million, should be completed next year.

It will fix the Capitol's crumbling exterior as well as update the plumbing and wiring. It's also addressing safety issues and creating more public spaces.

The fundraising bill is authored by Republican Sen. Dave Senjem. He's also on the Capitol Preservation Commission, which is overseeing the renovation project. He spoke to MPR News host Cathy Wurzer.

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