U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced Wednesday more than $7.2 million in grants for Minnesota to fund an array of highway-related efforts that include a $787,516 grant for a stone wall restoration project in Preston.

The grant is allocated for restoring a stone wall, plantings and plaza walkways for the Historic Bluff County Scenic Byway Preston Overlook Restoration Project.

“Transportation investments like these will create jobs and improve the quality of life for Minnesota residents as well as strengthen the state’s economy,” LaHood said. “The demand from the states for these funds shows just how critical the need is for infrastructure investment.”

Also included is a $2.04 million grant for replacing the Interstate 35E Bridge/Maryland Avenue Interchange in Hennepin County.

The Federal Highway Administration invited states to apply in June for federal funding from 14 grant programs. Requests poured in from every state, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. — more than 1,800 applications, totaling nearly $13 billion, which is more than 30 times the funds available.

“At a time when states are facing serious budgetary constraints, these grants will help fill a critical need,” said Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez. “Investments like these are immediate and long-lasting and will help create jobs.”