Torkelson receives CGMC Legislator of Distinction Award for SW MN infrastructure support

State Representative Paul Torkelson of Hanska was recognized by the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities (CGMC) on July 28 for his positive impact on the state’s transportation policy.

As a member of the House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee, Rep. Torkelson demonstrated leadership by authoring legislation to reform the Corridors of Commerce Program, which funds highway improvement projects that are necessary to enhance safety and foster economic development. He worked to address geographic inequalities in the project’s selection criteria to help projects in Greater Minnesota get a fair shake.

Highway safety and expansion projects including Highways 14 and 23 are examples of past projects where Torkelson’s work had a major impact. Rep. Torkelson’s initiative this session to ensure regional balance in project selection for Greater Minnesota demonstrates his continuing dedication to these issues.

Torkelson is serving his seventh term in the Minnesota House. The Legislator of Distinction Award is given to legislators who played key roles in advancing the CGMC’s priorities during the preceding legislative session.

CGMC is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization representing more than 100 cities outside of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The Coalition educates legislators about issues important to Greater Minnesota.