The METRO Green Line Extension (GLE) Project includes changes in the historic railroad corridor in Minneapolis that result in an adverse effect under Section 106 of the Historic Preservation Act.
The section of railroad corridor that is impacted is called the Wayzata Subdivision, a contributing segment of the St. Paul, Minneapolis & Manitoba Railroad/Great Northern Railway Main Line Railroad Corridor Historic District. This railroad corridor extends from the Twin Cities to the Minnesota border with North Dakota and is important due to the railroad’s role in Minneapolis and St. Paul’s growth as a commercial, financial, and manufacturing center, dating back to the 1880-1956 time period.
Project impact and mitigation
The GLE project includes the construction of a Corridor Protection wall, realigning the Cedar Lake Trail, removal of historic retaining walls, and other changes that result in an adverse effect on the railroad historic district.
To mitigate for the adverse effect, the Project includes development of interpretive panel exhibits to communicate the story of the historic railroad corridor. The interpretive panels will be installed at stations and nearby plazas where community members, including people walking and biking on nearby trails, and light rail riders can learn about the historic railroad corridor.
Great Northern Railway Historic District interpretive plan
The proposed interpretation plan identifies the central theme of the interpretation as to teach people about the development of the railroad between 1867 and 1930, and its connection to and influence on the surrounding landscape and community. The proposed themes include:
- Development of the Landscape
- Early Transportation Development
- Development of the Rail Line
- Influence of the Railroad
- Cedar Lake Roundhouse and Railyard
- Community and the Railroad
These themes will be used to develop interpretive panels to be installed before the Green Line Extension begins service in 2027. Your feedback is welcome through December 15, 2025 after which the team will develop the interpretive panels.