Minnesota Focus: Clean Water and Trail Expansion

Minnesota’s Senate Capital Investment Committee stepped out of St. Paul and into the heart of Senate District 16 on Dec. 2, joining Sen. Andrew Lang for a firsthand look at two projects shaping the future of the region. Community leaders used the visit as an opportunity to highlight urgent infrastructure needs in Lake Lillian and outline the long-awaited plan to extend the Glacial Lakes State Trail from New London to Sibley State Park.

The committee’s visit offered a ground-level look at projects that could be included in a potential 2026 bonding bill—initiatives focused not on political talking points, but on the real-world stakes for families, businesses, and local economies.

Tackling Critical Water Infrastructure Challenges in Lake Lillian

For the small city of Lake Lillian, aging pipes and outdated systems have turned routine water usage into a public health and safety concern. A 2021 study revealed a troubling finding: arsenic levels in the community’s water supply were more than 2.5 times the allowable compliance limit, underscoring the urgent need to overhaul the city’s infrastructure.

Much of that work is already underway. The first four phases of Lake Lillian’s water improvement plan—totaling $17.3 million—have been completed, thanks in part to $4 million allocated in the 2023 bonding bill. Those completed phases included a sweeping set of upgrades: replacing deteriorating water distribution lines, rehabilitating sanitary sewer systems, strengthening stormwater infrastructure, restoring roads impacted by the construction, and making essential improvements to water treatment operations.

Sen. Lang emphasized the core issue behind Lake Lillian’s request: families cannot shoulder soaring utility costs on their own. “Our communities are asking for real help in delivering clean water and improving quality of life,” Lang said. “This bonding request is critical not just for health and safety, but for affordability. Affordability is top of mind for families right now. This funding would be a crucial investment in the city’s infrastructure while helping keep future costs down. It’s a win-win.”

Now Lake Lillian is seeking $3.5 million from the committee to finish the job. The final phase would continue replacing outdated water lines, upgrade sanitary sewer collection, modernize water storage tanks, and address remaining infrastructure weaknesses.

Without help, residents will feel the squeeze. Lake Lillian’s 246 residents currently pay an average of $138 per month in utility bills—a heavy burden for a small rural community. Without the requested funding, that figure is expected to more than double to $290, placing essential water access increasingly out of reach.

Building a Safer, More Connected Glacial Lakes State Trail

The second stop on the committee’s tour shifted the focus from infrastructure to recreation—though the stakes remain just as meaningful for local communities. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is requesting $3.75 million to finally complete a state-required connection of the Glacial Lakes State Trail from New London to Sibley State Park.

State statute directs the DNR to establish and maintain designated state trails, and a 2009 legislative amendment specifically called for linking these two destinations. In the years since, the DNR has created detailed concepts, designs, and long-term plans. Now the agency is asking the Legislature for the funding needed to build it.

Sen. Lang said the extension would enhance one of the region’s greatest strengths: its outdoor recreation economy.
“Our district has some of the best recreation in the state, and this trail connection would build on that,” he said. “Safety and accessibility are essential for recreation projects, and this funding would allow the DNR to deliver both. My hope is that we secure this bonding request so our communities can enjoy new opportunities to walk, bike, and spend time outdoors.”

If approved, the project is expected to be completed in 2028, offering residents and visitors a safe, continuous, and scenic route through west-central Minnesota.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Bonding Bill

The committee’s tour of Senate District 16 underscored a shared theme: thoughtful investment in essential infrastructure and accessible outdoor spaces can transform communities. Whether ensuring safe drinking water for Lake Lillian or completing a long-promised trail connection, each request reflects a broader vision for strengthening everyday life in Greater Minnesota.

As lawmakers begin deep discussions on the 2026 bonding bill, the voices of these communities—and the vivid needs presented during this district visit—will play a significant role in shaping Minnesota’s next chapter of public investment.