Committee on Transportation [Source] Translate

The Minnesota Senate Transportation Committee meeting began at 3:09 p.m. on February 25, 2026, with a quorum established after initial delays. Senator Dibble introduced Senate File 3284, which updates Minnesota's bridge and tunnel inspection laws to align with federal standards. The bill clarifies definitions, inspection intervals, and responsibilities, and establishes a truck parking improvement program to address the shortage of safe truck parking in the state, allowing for grants and partnerships but without funding appropriations. Jennifer Witt from MnDOT explained that the updated inspection schedule would not incur additional costs for MnDOT or local entities, as inspections would still occur but less frequently for safe bridges. The bill also includes provisions for tunnel inspections, which previously lacked a defined schedule. Committee members inquired about the inspection process, particularly the division of labor between MnDOT staff and contracted services. Witt noted that while many inspections are conducted in-house, she would provide further details on responsibilities. The discussion included private vehicle bridges, which must be inspected at the owner's expense if they connect to public roads. The committee expressed interest in specific private bridges, including one in International Falls. Witt suggested modernizing legislatively mandated reports to save costs by making some available online rather than producing them annually. The bill also proposes public-private partnerships for truck parking to address the significant shortage in Minnesota. Andrew Andrusco, the statewide freight and railroad planning director, highlighted the urgent need for improved truck parking availability, referencing a tragic incident involving a truck driver. Senator Nelson suggested incentivizing private truck stops to create more parking spaces, while Senator Jesinski supported public-private partnerships and raised concerns about the pressures truck drivers face due to limited parking options. Senator Dibble emphasized the importance of safe resting places for truckers and discussed the need for a bill addressing various transportation issues, including updating cost thresholds for major highway projects and clarifying funding for railroad improvements. The committee also reviewed Senate File 3988, which aims to modernize definitions and thresholds related to major highway projects and enhance safety at railroad crossings. Witt provided details on the bill, including a prohibition on silencing bells at public railroad crossings. Senator Nelson inquired about establishing quiet zones to reduce train whistle noise, and Witt explained the process involves local government petitions and federal approval. The committee discussed removing references to defunct trails from statute to avoid confusion. The meeting concluded with announcements about future hearings on transportation and public safety issues. Senator Dibble mentioned that the transportation section of the governor's bonding proposal would be presented for discussion in the future. Senator Pa, who is leaving the committee, was acknowledged for her contributions, and the committee expressed appreciation for her service. Senator Hemmingston-Yeager will join the committee next year. The meeting ended with a motion to adjourn.