More Public Funding for Build-a-Block?

Senator Dave Koehler banded with other local and state lawmakers today, including Secretary of Transportation Gary Hannig.  To voice their support for additional public funding for build a block.

They say they'd like to see $4 million in stimulus money to help build an underground parking garage. And another $10 million in State money.  That's if the Senate passes a Capital bill this spring.

While the state says it would capital funding for the project, some local citizens say it's dipping more into taxpayer dollars.

"I think this is the kind of project we can work into a capital bill if we can get one passed," Secretary of Transportation Gary Hannig said.

“Now they're saying we're going back to the trough and we're going to get more public money from the feds and state.  That's just outrageous,” Karrie Alms, who represents Citizens for Responsible Spending said.

As for the project creating local construction jobs, they say a contract has been signed by labor unions, the Museum group and Caterpillar assuring all work will go to local companies. And questions surfaced around the IMAX Theater, Museum reps says a contract is in place but won't be officially signed until after next Tuesday's vote.