New Building To Rise In Minn. Capitol’s Shadow

ST. PAUL, (AP) - A rapid construction timetable surrounds a new legislative office building in the shadow of Minnesota's Capitol, which is about to undergo a renovation of its own.

State lawmakers authorized the four-story building and a nearby parking ramp. The project was included with little debate in a broader tax package and there was $3 million set aside for planning.

The State has solicited bidders on what is expected to be a combined $89.5 million project that planners hope is built by May 2015. The state will issue bonds and lawmakers will have to appropriate money yearly to pay debt.

When the Capitol is remodeled, there will be space for fewer lawmakers there. The new building is slated to have bigger public hearing rooms.