Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/11/2024 One-third of all development in the seven-county region is taking place near regional transit investments More than $16 billion has been invested with more than 50,000 housing units developed along transit corridors since 2009. Read more
Posted In: Date: 4/3/2024 Common questions: What is municipal consent? In summer 2024, cities along the METRO Blue Line Extension route will start the process known as "municipal consent." Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/1/2024 METRO Gold Line opening set for March 22, 2025 The state’s first bus rapid transit line to operate primarily within bus-only lanes will connect Woodbury to downtown Saint Paul. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/13/2024 Common questions: How has community input changed the project? Community voices have played a crucial role in shaping the Blue Line Extension project to date and will continue to drive decisions as the project advances. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/28/2024 Early ridership and cost data signals Blue Line Extension competitive for federal funding The extension is expected to bring total daily ridership on the METRO Blue Line to more than 30,000 by adding 11,500 to 13,000 daily rides. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/16/2024 Annual transit ridership grows 16% as bus service expands Transit ridership grew 16% to 48.7 million rides in 2023, the second consecutive year of growth following a pandemic-driven drop, with average weekday ridership at 136,893. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/12/2024 Common questions: What’s in a 30% design? Project staff are in the process of completing 30% design plans for the METRO Blue Line Extension project for community and city partner review this spring. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/23/2024 Blue Line Extension 2023 year in review Thank you to everyone who engaged with us on this project in 2023! Your input is critical, and many important milestones were reached this past year with community voices at the forefront. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/17/2023 Highway projects increase regional mobility and safety The Met Council added five major road projects to planned transportation investments to help achieve these goals. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/15/2023 Common questions: Why was LRT chosen for this corridor? Many residents have asked why light rail was chosen for this line instead of bus rapid transit or another mode. It’s an important question with many considerations. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 11/29/2023 Metro Mobility expands transportation options and upgrades technology The Free Fare Pilot program lets Metro Mobility riders use the regular route bus and rail system for free, while tech advancements are progressing to improve communications and online scheduling. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 11/27/2023 Ribbon cutting marks completion of new Bielenberg Bridge in east metro Met Council, local, state, and federal officials celebrated the new east metro bridge, which connects Oakdale and Woodbury and will have dedicated lanes for the Gold Line bus rapid transit corridor. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 10/30/2023 Metro Transit to develop a bold new vision The new framework will build on current initiatives and align with the regional Transportation Policy Plan, which in turn is part of Imagine 2050, the Met Council’s regional development guide. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/27/2023 Station sites along White Bear, Maryland avenues will be studied for Purple Line Many community members supported the proposed station locations and 63% of people surveyed wanted to prioritize faster service, rather than more frequent stations. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/14/2023 Agreement with Hennepin County will fund Blue Line Extension project through 2024 and establish new governance structure Met Council members and the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners approved a grant agreement that will provide $75.3 million in county funds for the METRO Blue Line Extension light rail project. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/14/2023 Advisory body of elected officials community reps endorse proposed Blue Line Extension route for further study The Blue Line Extension Corridor Management Committee signaled their support for advancing analysis of the staff-recommended light rail track route and general station locations. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 8/21/2023 METRO Green Line Extension Update The Metropolitan Council in partnership with Hennepin County has resolved the current funding deficit for the Green Line Extension Light Rail Transit Line. Read more
Posted In: Date: 7/27/2023 Metropolitan Council announces new General Manager for Metro Transit Lesley Kandaras will lead organization amid significant investment in expanding, strengthening regional transit network. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 6/27/2023 Blue Line Extension: Community creates anti-displacement recommendations through deep engagement 18 months of group discussions, community meetings, and one-on-one outreach has resulted in a detailed roadmap to help our region navigate the human side of building a light rail route. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/24/2023 New transit infrastructure division will manage and oversee development and construction of major infrastructure projects We're creating a new division and leadership position to provide a more consistent and robust approach to complicated and critical infrastructure projects. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/11/2023 Governor Walz, Senator Klobuchar, and Senator Smith announce new funding for the METRO Gold Line The 10-mile Gold Line bus rapid transit line will connect downtown Saint Paul to stations in east Saint Paul, Maplewood, Landfall, Oakdale, and Woodbury, opening in 2025. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/27/2023 Transit ridership increased by 17% in 2022 The Metropolitan Council reported an overall 17% increase in ridership on the services it provides, including Metro Transit, contracted routes, Metro Mobility, and Transit Link. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/26/2023 Met Council announces new Metro Transit Police Chief Ernest Morales III joins the Metro Transit Police department from New York, where he spent most of his career in the New York City Police Department. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/30/2022 2022 METRO Blue Line Extension year in review This light rail project made progress towards selecting a new route after more than 18 months of robust community engagement. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/20/2022 Big investments made in local transportation projects If you travel in the Twin Cities region, you are probably going to benefit from the $350 million in federal transportation investments the Met Council approved in December. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 10/19/2022 METRO Gold Line construction gets underway Metro Transit and project partners celebrated the start of construction on the METRO Gold Line, which will become the first bus rapid transit service in Minnesota to primarily use bus lanes. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 10/18/2022 METRO Blue Line Extension preparing supplemental environmental report The Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement will focus on potentially significant changes to the project based on the identification of the METRO Blue Line Extension recommended route. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 7/7/2022 METRO Blue Line Extension announces new project director Christine Beckwith will help guide the future of the Blue Line Extension as it moves towards the start of construction anticipated around 2025. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 6/22/2022 METRO Blue Line Extension route recommendation adopted by Metropolitan Council and Hennepin County Board Project leaders can now move forward on this important transit project by continuing environmental, design, engineering, and anti-displacement activities. Read more
Posted In: Date: 6/9/2022 METRO Blue Line Extension route recommendation advanced by Corridor Management Committee This is the first official step in moving the route recommendation into environmental work and advancing design where further in-depth engagement and review will continue as the project develops. Read more
Posted In: Date: 5/6/2022 Metro Transit Police Chief steps down to become U.S. Marshal Richard Grates has been appointed interim chief; the Met Council will launch a national search for the next chief. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/18/2022 Metropolitan Council and Hennepin County release METRO Blue Line Extension route recommendation for public comment Recommendation: extend the Blue Line from Target Field station along West Broadway Avenue in Minneapolis to County Road 81 in Crystal and Robbinsdale and along West Broadway Avenue in Brooklyn Park. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/1/2022 Developers invest near high-frequency transit A notable share of the seven-county metro area’s permitted and planned development continues to be located within a 10-minute walk of transit corridors that offer high-frequency service. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/18/2022 Applications open for Purple Line Community and Business Advisory Committee The METRO Purple Line will provide bus rapid transit service to communities in the northeast metro. Apply by April 22. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/17/2022 Gold Line project applies for federal matching funds If approved, the FTA Full Funding Grant Agreement would fund 45% of the project’s cost; 55% will come from Washington and Ramsey counties. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/10/2022 Blue Line Extension Anti-Displacement Work Group kicks off efforts to maximize community benefits, prevent displacement The work group's 26 members include residents and business owners in the area, people with lived experience of displacement, and people from the philanthropic community and government agencies. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/3/2022 Met Council hears transit safety and security recommendations Metro Transit staff have been directed to develop specific action plan by end of June. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/23/2022 Transit ridership begins to recover in 2021 COVID-19 upended the way we work, interact, and even move. But as stay-at-home orders relaxed, businesses reopened, and social gatherings returned in limited capacities, ridership began to rebound. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/26/2022 Met Council approves use of contingency funds and next steps to advance METRO Green Line Extension Agreement and Met Council action establish foundation for projected opening day and total budget. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/21/2022 Despite pandemic, Metro Mobility works to enhance service Online booking and new vehicle tracking capabilities improve customer experience. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/28/2021 COVID-19 relief funds to help cities and counties with transportation needs The federal Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act allocated the funding to the Met Council to address transportation problems caused by the pandemic. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/20/2021 METRO Blue Line Extension seeking members for Anti-Displacement Workgroup Members will help guide anti-displacement strategies and policy development by providing personal insight, local expertise and direct connections to communities impacted by the project. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/13/2021 METRO Purple Line receives key federal approval The bus rapid transit line has received approval to enter the Project Development phase of the FTA's New Starts program. Project leadership now transitions from Ramsey County to the Met Council. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/13/2021 METRO Blue Line Extension Project releases Draft Route Modification Report for public comment Comments on the report will be accepted through January 25, 2022 and will inform the final evaluation and route recommendation in spring 2022. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 10/14/2021 Council approves final METRO B Line plan The project now moves into the detailed design phase, which will occur into 2022, with construction in 2023 and service anticipated to begin in 2024. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 10/13/2021 METRO Purple Line clears environmental hurdle Achievement of this major milestone helps to clear the way for the transfer of the project from Ramsey County to the Metropolitan Council in late 2021 or early 2022. Read more
Posted In: PressRelease, Transportation Date: 9/22/2021 METRO Blue Line Extension project selects CURA to lead anti-displacement work This action to invest in anti-displacement is intended to support corridor residents, businesses, and equitable development in the corridor. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/22/2021 Met Council projects advance electric vehicle adoption in the region Among projects are an electric vehicle planning study and Metro Transit’s ongoing work to transition its fleet to electric vehicles. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/17/2021 Metro Transit Police Work Group to weigh suggestions for improving transit safety Metropolitan Council members are sorting through the suggestions and feedback from community members, transit customers, and transit employees to improve safety on the region’s transit system. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 8/17/2021 Southwest Light Rail milestone: first tracks The first light rail tracks have been placed for the METRO Green Line Extension near the future Downtown Hopkins Station. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 7/15/2021 Metro Transit announces safety and security initiatives The initiatives amount to more than $4 million in annual investment and are the next steps in an evolution of investments started two years ago. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 5/24/2021 Orange Line connecting bus recommendation moves forward Based on public input and nearly 600 survey responses, we developed a recommended plan, which will help set the vision for connecting bus service to the Orange Line. Read more
Posted In: Council News, Transportation Date: 5/21/2021 Tell us about your experience with safety on the transit system We invite you to fill out a survey, attend a community forum, or both. The feedback will help shape critical policy questions related to transit policing and safety we explore later this year. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/14/2021 East Metro Gold Line bus rapid transit project advances The project is cleared to enter the engineering phase of a federal program that could pay for 45% of the project’s cost. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/24/2021 D Line construction begins Construction of the METRO D Line, a bus rapid transit line reaching from Brooklyn Center to Bloomington, will begin in early April. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/11/2021 Met Council and Hennepin County unveil new Blue Line Extension route options The extension will connect the cities of Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Robbinsdale, Golden Valley and Minneapolis to the existing Blue Line light rail route. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/25/2021 Metro Transit recommends future bus rapid transit lines Following months of analysis and community engagement, Metro Transit finalized recommendations for the next three bus rapid transit (BRT) alignments that will become the METRO F, G, and H lines. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/24/2021 Regional transit ridership shaped by global pandemic Shuttered businesses, canceled gatherings, reduced business capacity, working from home, and social distancing have ultimately meant reduced travel across the region. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/22/2021 Growing ridership, vaccine availability prompts Metro Mobility to discontinue free rides for health care workers The Metropolitan Council will introduce fares beginning March 1 for essential health care workers who use the service. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/27/2021 Council awards federal funding to 56 transportation projects As the region’s Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Met Council distributes about $200 million every two years to projects that meet regional transportation needs. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/25/2021 Metro Transit seeks feedback on proposed bus connections to Orange Line The goal is to improve connections between the new bus rapid transit line and other bus routes. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/14/2021 Southwest LRT announces potential delay Over the course of the 2020 construction season, project staff and our contractor encountered unforeseen conditions in Minneapolis that will take longer to overcome. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/14/2020 Metro Mobility and Transit Link pull through tough times Staff across the Met Council have gone the extra mile over the past nine months in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/9/2020 Metro Transit seeks community input to prioritize future BRT lines Network Next has identified the top future bus rapid transit alignments for near-term implementation. We are now asking the community to rank the top alignments to help prioritize implementation. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 11/23/2020 Council adopts 2020 update to region’s 2040 Transportation Policy Plan The plan is a framework for how our region will support the ways people travel around the region as we plan for future growth and addresses trends that have emerged since the plan was last updated. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 10/8/2020 Gov. Walz pledges support for Blue Line Extension project “It is time for this project to begin writing its next chapter. It is too important for the people served by this line to wait any longer,” he said. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/14/2020 Minnesota receives $928.8M full funding grant agreement to construct Green Line light rail extension The FFGA provides nearly $1 billion in federal funds as a match to more than $1 billion of local funding and clears the way for the completion of Minnesota’s largest ever public works project. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 8/5/2020 Southwest Light Rail Project Full Funding Grant Agreement moving forward with Congressional notification The FFGA will cover nearly half the cost of implementation. The $2.003 billion project will be the largest infrastructure project in the state’s history, creating nearly 7,500 jobs. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 8/3/2020 Project partners announce new direction for METRO Blue Line Extension Hennepin County and the Met Council feel it is time to work with agency and community partners to explore opportunities to advance this critical project without using BNSF Railway right of way. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 7/20/2020 Regional transit study assesses complete system with an eye to future expansion Our job remains to look to the future and plan for how the regional transit system recovers and grows. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 6/24/2020 Orange Line construction kicks into high gear When it opens late next year, the METRO Orange Line bus rapid transit will provide frequent, all-day service between Minneapolis, Richfield, Bloomington, and Burnsville along I-35W. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 5/26/2020 Regional travel patterns sketched out by household survey data Data is from nearly 8,000 households, over a year’s time and across 19 counties — the seven-county metro area and 12 neighboring Minnesota and Wisconsin counties. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/21/2020 Metro Mobility food shelf deliveries take off amid the COVID-19 outbreak Contractors and staff recognized an opportunity to support local food shelves in delivering food to those most in need. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/13/2020 Metropolitan Council to offer door-to-door transport for essential health workers across the region This effort comes as doctors, nurses, home health aides, clinic staff, janitorial and all other healthcare support staff put their lives on the line to bring Minnesotans through the COVID-19 outbreak. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/21/2020 Let Metro Mobility or Transit Link pick up your grocery order Certified Metro Mobility customers can now order groceries and household essentials from a store that has online shopping and local pick up. We will pick your order up and deliver to your house. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/6/2020 Met Council's response to COVID-19 (coronavirus) We are closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19 and will continue to follow the guidance from the Governor’s office and the Minnesota Department of Health as the situation evolves. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/5/2020 Bus Rapid Transit lines stand out in transit system, Green Line sets ridership record While overall, local and commuter express bus ridership has gone down, there are highlights where spot investments to improve access, speed or reliability have boosted ridership. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/5/2020 Expanded travel options for Metro Mobility to include ride-hail services The Met Council is considering expanding travel options for Metro Mobility customers to include ride-hail services as an alternative to Metro Mobility’s current Premium on Demand taxi service. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/2/2020 Apply by May 15 for federal transportation funding Technical experts from across the region will rank and score the projects before the Transportation Advisory Board selects projects for funding in late 2020. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/12/2020 New chair expands “eyes and ears” on Metro Transit to enhance public safety “Every transit rider has an absolute right to feel safe when using any form of public transportation,” said Chair Charlie Zelle. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/21/2020 METRO Gold Line clears first environmental milestone The FTA determined that there are no significant environmental impacts associated with the construction and operation and has cleared the project to continue design and engineering. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/21/2020 Rail construction to intensify in 2020 Cities and residents in the METRO Green Line Extension (Southwest LRT or SWLRT) corridor will experience intensified construction activities in 2020. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/16/2020 Regional Solicitation funding supports regional bicycle network Opportunities to improve biking access through on-street bikeways and off-road trails exist throughout the region. Read more
Posted In: Date: 12/16/2019 Region meets air quality standards for carbon monoxide More than 40 years of clean air policies and regulations from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have improved air quality, safeguarding peoples’ health and sustaining the environment. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/11/2019 Public comment period for the proposed Metro Transit Police Department on use of body cameras Comment on the proposed Metro Transit Police Department on use of body cameras by January 30, 2020. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/25/2019 Metro-area transportation projects advance for federal funding consideration The region’s $3.5 billion Transportation Improvement Program is a collection of hundreds of local highway, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian projects in the queue for federal consideration. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/23/2019 Transportation board invites comments on federal funding applications The Regional Solicitation is one way the board and Council prioritize and invest in roads, bridges and transit, as well as biking and walking needs. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/18/2019 Metropolitan Council awards systems contract for Southwest LRT Aldridge-Parsons Joint Venture is experienced working on LRT corridors, having performed the systems work on Central Corridor LRT (METRO Green Line). Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 6/19/2019 FTA releases full funding for Orange Line BRT Receipt of grant keeps project on schedule to move ahead with next phase of construction. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 5/30/2019 Southwest LRT project creates job, business opportunities The largest public works project in Minnesota’s history is expected to generate 7,500 jobs and $350 million in payroll. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/4/2019 D Line: Centering racial equity and improving people's lives President of Abbott Northwestern, elected officials and community leaders highlight importance of D Line bus rapid transit (BRT) to businesses, employees, hospital patients, residents and more. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/24/2019 High-frequency transit attracting more development About one-third of the region’s residential multifamily development between 2009 and 2017 happened within a half-mile of current and planned light rail and bus rapid transit stations. Read more
Posted In: About Council, Transportation Date: 2/19/2019 Governor Walz proposes $1.5 billion transit package Includes an investment strategy to support the region’s bus system for generations to come, and includes addressing the structural budget issues created by the growth in demand for Metro Mobility. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/14/2019 Federal awards allocated to 57 transportation projects Every two years, the Council allocates roughly $200 million to locally initiated projects that meet regional transportation needs. This process is called the Regional Solicitation. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/13/2019 Rethinking I-94: Engaging communities to improve the I-94 corridor An effort to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion in a stretch of freeway in Minneapolis and Saint Paul is initiating and fortifying connections with the residents who live in the corridor. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/7/2019 Harrington to lead Dept. of Public Safety After seven years leading the Metro Transit Police Department, John Harrington has stepped down as Police Chief to take on a new role with the state. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/3/2018 Officials hold joyous groundbreaking for Southwest light rail project After almost 20 years of planning, the groundbreaking marks the work of partnerships with federal, county and local governments and organizations and members of the communities all along the line. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 10/24/2018 Council adopts update to region’s 2040 Transportation Policy Plan The update addresses trends that have emerged since the 2040 plan was first adopted in 2015 and includes new information. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/27/2018 Archaeology firm formed by three college friends finishes SWLRT field work In Situ is a minority-owned cultural resource management company specializing in archaeology and laboratory analysis. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/27/2018 Archaeological survey at future SWLRT station focuses on late 1800s-early 1900s The area’s former residents, who were from Russia and other countries in Eastern Europe, left behind everyday items such as soup bones, beer bottles, and buttons. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 9/26/2018 Council launches travel behavior household survey Collecting information on day-to-day travel is vital for local, county and regional agencies to plan for future transportation needs. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/14/2018 Light rail leader named top transit professional A leader in Metro Transit’s efforts to expand light rail in the Twin Cities has been recognized as one of the transit industry’s top young professionals. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 9/13/2018 Transportation projects being scored for federal funding The 2018 Regional Solicitation brought in 136 applications that will vie for around $200 million in federal funding. Technical experts from across the region are reviewing and scoring applications. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 7/23/2018 Parties reach agreement to advance Southwest LRT The agreements with the Twin Cities & Western Railroad Company will now be considered by the Surface Transportation Board, a federal regulatory agency. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 6/27/2018 2040 Transportation Policy Plan update released for public comment Since it was adopted in 2015, new investment decisions and work have been incorporated into the plan to reflect the current landscape of regional transportation. Comment on the plan by August 13. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 3/20/2018 Local governments to compete for transportation funds in 2018 Regional Solicitation About $200 million in federal funds will go to local highway, bridge, transit, bicycle and pedestrian projects. The federal funds will leverage additional local matching funds. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/23/2018 Supplemental Environmental Assessment/Amended Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation available The Metropolitan Council and the FTA have issued a Supplemental Environmental Assessment/Amended Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation for the METRO Green Line Extension Project. Read more
Posted In: Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 2/22/2018 Proposed funds will support transit and environmental initiatives The funds are part of Dayton’s overall 2018 $1.5 billion bonding proposal. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/19/2017 New service allows transit customers to communicate concerns through text Metro Transit customers can now discreetly report suspicious or unwanted behavior through text messages. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/12/2017 Ringing in the holidays on Northstar! Northstar Holiday Train: the start of a new holiday tradition. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Transportation Date: 12/6/2017 Shoveling snow and ice improves safety and mobility “Please shovel!” That’s the plea being made by Metro Mobility, a metro area transportation service for people with disabilities. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 11/22/2017 Region benefits as airport, Council cooperate on transit The Metropolitan Airports Commission and the Metropolitan Council have a history of working together to produce positive results that benefit the entire metro area. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 11/22/2017 Using community wisdom to design better bus stops Metro Transit staff and partnering agencies built relationships, shared information and listened to the ideas and feedback across 22 neighborhoods. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 11/22/2017 Transit investments spur development, serve employers and neighborhoods Development along the existing Green and Blue lines bears out the economic benefits of dedicated transitways. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 11/22/2017 Local officials central to decision-making on transportation projects The Council relies on local elected officials and residents to review those local project proposals and make funding recommendations. This body is called the Transportation Advisory Board (TAB). Read more
Posted In: Communities, Transportation Date: 11/22/2017 Metro Mobility is a life saver for people with disabilities Many Metro Mobility riders travel to work, school and other essential activities. It’s just another way public transit contributes to the economic vitality of the region. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 10/31/2017 Council approves federal funds for transportation services for older and disabled residents Thirteen federal grants totaling nearly $2.6 million will help private nonprofit and government organizations meet the transportation needs of older adults and people with disabilities. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 10/17/2017 Metro-area transportation projects advance for federal funding consideration The Council has signed off on a large slate of metro-area transportation projects to add to the state’s list of projects recommended for federal funding. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 10/16/2017 Council awards engagement contracts for I-94 study The Metropolitan Council has awarded six contracts totaling $161,000 to community-based organizations to engage people in MnDOT’s Rethinking I-94 Study. Read more
Posted In: Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 9/21/2017 SWLRT construction bids did not meet cost expectations and responsiveness requirements The Council also voted to direct project staff to look at ways to reduce costs and prepare to reissue the invitation for civil construction bids in October. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 9/13/2017 Planning for a future with autonomous vehicles The Council is grappling with how autonomous vehicles may impact the region’s transportation system. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 9/11/2017 Survey yields robust data to forecast travel, understand transit users Survey results provide transit planners and policy makers with information to better understand who riders are, how and why they are using transit. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 7/27/2017 Council votes to increase regional transit fares, in face of upcoming fiscal cliff First fare adjustment in nearly a decade impacts all regional services. New rates to go into effect October 1, Council makes permanent discounted fare for low-income riders. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 7/18/2017 MnDOT, Council seek community partners for engagement work in I-94 Corridor The goal is to to ensure that historically underrepresented community members help shape decisions on the future design, use and overall look of I-94. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 7/18/2017 Bus illustrates the "Future of Twin Cities Transit" Kevin Cannon’s illustrations — what he calls “cartoon cartography” — helped celebrate the openings of the METRO Green Line and the A Line. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 7/17/2017 Council to deliberate fare increase on July 26 After receiving thousands of comments and completed surveys, the Metropolitan Council will formally consider raising regional transit fares in late July. Read more
Posted In: Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 6/29/2017 Council seeks members to serve on Metro Mobility Task Force Council seeks members to serve on Metro Mobility Task Force. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 6/12/2017 Transportation system performance helps determine where to make investments The Transportation System Performance Evaluation gathers regional transportation data to determine whether our system is meeting the needs of people and what emerging trends need to be addressed. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 6/12/2017 Transit service to airport connects workers to opportunity A transit service that began as a small pilot program nearly two years ago is now making a big difference for airport workers who serve passengers in the wee hours of the morning. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 5/3/2017 Transit fares may increase later this year What you need to know about proposed transit fare increases. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 4/27/2017 Regional Bicycle Barriers Study needs your help Physical barriers throughout the region get in the way of safe and efficient bicycling. The Council is addressing some of these barriers in a study called the Regional Bicycle Barriers Study. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/25/2017 Metro Mobility riders weigh in on transit service, fare proposals About 60 Metro Mobility riders and a few advocates gathered at the Wilder Foundation in Saint Paul Monday to provide feedback on Metro Mobility service and a proposal to increase transit fares. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 4/18/2017 Update of regional transportation plan under way Whether driving, busing, biking, walking, or taking light rail, people need a transportation system that allows them to remain connected and reach destinations. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 4/17/2017 Job seekers, high school graduates can get training to build LRT extensions To help people develop the skills for light rail construction jobs, the Council is working with organizations to offer free training for up to 80 people and10 soon-to-be high school graduates. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 4/10/2017 Metro Mobility service faces likely cuts/fare increase under House legislation Transit Link service, where there is no regular-route service, could be discontinued. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 2/7/2017 Metro Mobility ridership jumps 6% in one year Demand for Metro Mobility transit service in the Twin Cities metro area increased nearly 6% to 2.23 million rides in 2016. The trend of annual growth of 5-8% is expected to continue in the future. Read more
Posted In: Planning, Transportation Date: 1/25/2017 Key transportation committee selects metro area projects for federal funding Slate of 58 projects includes highway, transit, bike, and pedestrian projects. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/20/2017 Designs being finalized for Southwest LRT construction to start in mid-2017 The Southwest LRT Project staff is busy this winter finalizing designs in preparation for the start of construction in mid-2017. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 12/15/2016 C Line rapid bus line moves toward 2019 opening The C Line will connect riders from Brooklyn Center and North Minneapolis with stations in downtown Minneapolis. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 11/15/2016 Metro Transit reaching out to juvenile offenders, changing lives Metro Transit Police are building on-street relationships with struggling youth and helping them turn their lives around. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 10/26/2016 Met Council awards contract to begin production of Southwest LRT vehicles The Metropolitan Council chooses Siemens to manufacture new light rail vehicles for the Southwest LRT Project. Read more
Posted In: PressRelease, Transportation Date: 9/20/2016 Feds sign off on environmental review for Blue Line Extension LRT Project The Federal Transit Administration has issued a Record of Decision for the METRO Blue Line Extension Light Rail Transit Project’s Final Environmental Impact Statement. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 9/1/2016 Southwest LRT secures funding to apply for federal match The Council voted Aug. 31 to authorize the future issuance of Certificates of Participation for $103.5 million. CTIB and Hennepin County each agreed to contribute an additional $20.5 million. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 8/12/2016 Commercial property could be eligible under change to highway loan fund rules The Metropolitan Council has amended eligibility requirements for the Right-of-Way Acquisition Loan Fund (RALF). Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 8/11/2016 SWLRT Final EIS Determination of Adequacy On August 10, 2016, the Council determined the Final EIS for Project is adequate. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 7/22/2016 FTA issues Record of Decision for Southwest LRT The Record of Decision (ROD) provides the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) determination that the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) have been satisfied. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 7/21/2016 Bus and rail fares lowered to $1 in pilot project for low-income residents Metro Transit has been providing low-income residents with rides for just $1 under a six-month pilot study and concluded that the program deserves a larger demonstration project, to begin this fall. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 7/15/2016 Notice of Availability - METRO Blue Line Extension Final Environmental Impact Statement The Metropolitan Council (Council) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) issued a Final Environmental Impact Statement (Final EIS). Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 5/5/2016 Employees and employers train their sights on Southwest LRT for better access CEOs, seniors, business owners, and reverse commuters all want the proposed Southwest LRT (METRO Green Line Extension) to be built to improve access to the 175,000 jobs located along the corridor. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/23/2016 8 year-old train fan and cancer patient takes light rail train for a spin After offering to donate $75 toward the Southwest light rail line, Karlis received a set of keys to the train, an operator’s license, two plaques and a bag full of LRT-related goodies. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/21/2016 Metro Mobility customers turn out in big numbers to talk about service Nearly 120 people gathered to share their ideas on improving Metro Mobility services. Many said that while improvements are needed with Metro Mobility service, it is a lifeline for many riders. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/4/2016 Blue Line Extension successfully gains municipal consent The METRO Blue Line Extension LRT Project is one step closer to becoming a reality after gaining approval for municipal consent. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 2/17/2016 C Line BRT will serve North Minneapolis The region’s next Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line will add important connection through North Minneapolis. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 1/25/2016 Officials hear comments on jobs, job access that Blue Line Extension will provide The municipal consent process gives area residents a chance to get more information and comment on the project, and concludes with local government units voting on its design. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/9/2015 Blue Line Extension Project Headed for Municipal Consent Process Metropolitan Council approves updated plans; project now needs local approval by March 2016. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 11/12/2015 Metro Mobility hosts successful 2015 fall convening The October 29 gathering provided Metro Mobility customers with an opportunity to give feedback and suggestions on how to improve service. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 10/29/2015 Blue Line Extension LRT reaches milestone with scope, cost estimate update The needed adjustments address safety concerns, potential traffic, and floodplain impacts. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 7/1/2015 SWLRT Advisory Committee recommends ending at SouthWest Station The Corridor Management Committee’s recommendation to the Metropolitan Council preserves a majority of project elements and a projected average weekday ridership of 34,000 in 2040. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 6/26/2015 SouthWest or Town Center would be the westernmost LRT station Representatives of project funders, the county and cities along the planned SouthWest LRT line are trying to decide whether to make Town Center or Southwest in Eden Prairie the westernmost station. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Transportation Date: 6/16/2015 Connections ground businesses, arts on METRO Green Line corridor The year-old 11-mile light rail line provides an essential connection for riders to discover and explore communities, businesses, and arts and cultural amenities along the corridor. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning, Transportation Date: 6/10/2015 METRO Green Line has been magnet for housing development From artist lofts to affordable housing to luxury apartments, new housing development has contributed significantly to the estimated $2.8 billion in development along the METRO Green Line since 2009. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Transportation Date: 6/10/2015 People, places, and connections: Green Line residents are enthusiastic about light rail The METRO Green Line has proven to be magnet for housing development. And the people who are living along the line are enjoying the access and connections it provides. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 6/9/2015 Project partners focus talks on making Town Center in Eden Prairie westernmost SWLRT station Representatives of the communities who will be served by Southwest Light Rail Transit are narrowing the list of cost-cutting options to bring the project back in line with its budget. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 6/3/2015 Southwest LRT Supplemental Draft EIS Available for Public Review and Comment (Updated 6-3-2015) The Southwest Light Rail Transit (LRT) (METRO Green Line Extension) Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement is available for review and comment. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 2/4/2015 Southwest LRT Project’s federal rating now medium-high Municipal consent, local funding commitments help project's rating climb. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 1/14/2015 Council adopts 2040 Transportation Policy Plan The region’s long-range transportation plan sets the policies and strategies for investing in the regional transportation system to 2040. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/8/2014 Students board Metro Transit buses in increasing numbers With the beginning of the school year, thousands of high school students in Minneapolis are using Metro Transit to get to school for the third consecutive year. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/4/2014 Southwest LRT next steps include peer review, advanced design A new chapter is beginning for the METRO Green Line Extension (Southwest Light Rail Transit Project), following approval from all the cities on the line, including Minneapolis. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 8/4/2014 Metropolitan Council responds to Equity Commitments Coalition for SWLRT requests Requests from the Equity Commitments Coalition for SWLRT accelerated and sharpened the Metropolitan Council’s work on transit equity. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 6/23/2014 Fieldwork underway in Summer 2014 Crews are doing a variety of fieldwork on the Southwest LRT Project over the summer and fall. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 1/30/2014 Metropolitan Council releases drafts of independent freight, water reports on Southwest LRT The Metropolitan Council released two draft reports prepared by independent consultants to examine important issues that affect the Southwest LRT Project. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 11/14/2013 Kenilworth Corridor tree and vegetation survey Before final decisions are made on the scope for the Southwest LRT project, the Council will conduct a tree and vegetation survey in the Kenilworth Corridor. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 12/19/2012 Kimley-Horn, AECOM chosen to begin preliminary engineering The Southwest Light Rail Transit line took a major step forward today to opening in 2018 when the Metropolitan Council authorized preliminary engineering contracts with Kimley-Horn and AECOM. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 10/1/2012 White House support affirms the status of Southwest LRT Project Statement from Metropolitan Council Chair Susan Haigh on the announcement by President Obama. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 3/12/2012 Light rail best option to support job growth in Southwest Corridor Met Council testifies before legislature on need for expanded transit system. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 9/2/2011 FTA gives go-ahead to start engineering on Southwest Corridor light-rail transit project The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has granted approval to begin preliminary engineering (PE) on the region’s third light-rail transit project, the Southwest Corridor. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 6/7/2010 Southwest Corridor will be light rail, Council decides The Metropolitan Council approved light rail on the 14-mile Southwest Corridor between downtown Minneapolis and Eden Prairie. Read more
Posted In: Transportation Date: 11/12/2009 Southwest Transitway route selection headed for Council The Metropolitan Council is the next stop for light-rail transit (LRT) in the Southwest Corridor. Read more