Minn. Metro Transit resumes full light rail service following 11-day shutdown
Meanwhile, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that engineers have all but dropped a possible light rail line from plans to connect St. Paul's Union Depot to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and the Mall of America in Bloomington
MINNEAPOLIS — The longest shutdown in the history of the Minneapolis Metro Transit light rail system ended on Monday when service resumed on the Blue and Green Lines, News8000 reports.
The two lines had been shut down since June 22 for maintenance, affecting stations between Target Field and U.S. Bank Stadium. The shutdown left many riders frustrated and confused, especially since the rail construction coincided with other down road repairs and the shutdown of Lowry Tunnel on Interstate 94. For the full story, click here.
Meanwhile, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that engineers have all but dropped a possible light rail line from plans to connect St. Paul's Union Depot to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and the Mall of America in Bloomington, however, a modernized version of the classic streetcar remains a strong possibility.
A technical advisory committee composed of engineers and planners from Ramsey County, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Bloomington, the airport, Metro Transit, and other parties wrapped up a report in mid-June that narrows 18 options down to six, eliminating light rail and traditional, or dedicated-lane, bus rapid transit, reportedly because of cost and low ridership. For the full story, click here.
The region’s fixed-route system finished out the year with a total of 373.5 million rides. Adding 12.3 million rides over 2024 represents an increase that is equal to the annual transit ridership of Kansas City.
The priorities are outlined in the 2026 Board and CEO Initiatives and Action Plan, which serves as a roadmap to guide the agency’s work throughout the year and ensure continued progress and accountability on voter-approved transportation investments and essential mobility services.
In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at HDR, MCTS, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.
This final component of the 2 Line will cross Lake Washington and connect with the 1 Line at International District/Chinatown Station, creating a fully integrated regional light rail system.
Expected to enter service in 2029, these locomotives support the agency’s commitment to offer reliable and efficient rail transportation across South Florida.
