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Officials Cut The Ribbon On Newly Expanded Hwy 169

Shakopee, Minn. – Local leaders gathered today to cut the ribbon on the newly constructed lane on Highway 169 in Shakopee. The two-month, $2 million project was entirely funded by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC).

"An additional lane has been much-needed on this road for the thousands of people who use it every day," SMSC Chairman Charlie Vig said. "The SMSC's members, employees and guests are among those users, so we are glad to have been part of a project which will improve safety."

The project included the construction of a third southbound lane, stretching one mile, which contains a 10-foot shoulder all the way to the County Road 83 exit ramp. An estimated 35,000 people use the southbound side of the road each day. This new lane will reduce congestion and make travel safer for residents, workers and visitors.

"Scott County residents and visitors alike will most certainly benefit from this additional lane," said Scott County Board Chair Jon Ulrich. "And we thank the SMSC leadership for their willingness to make this happen."

About the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is a federally recognized, sovereign Indian tribe located southwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul. With a focus on being a good neighbor, good steward of the earth, and good employer, the SMSC is committed to charitable donations, community partnerships, a healthy environment, and a strong economy. Together the SMSC and the SMSC Gaming Enterprise (Mystic Lake Casino Hotel and Little Six Casino) are the largest employer in Scott County. Having donated more than $325 million since opening its Gaming Enterprise in the 1990s, as well as providing more than $500 million in economic development loans to other tribes, the SMSC is the largest philanthropic benefactor for Indian Country nationally and one of the largest charitable givers in Minnesota.