BACKGROUND
A 40 mile, six station commuter rail corridor linking downtown Minneapolis to Big Lake.
| Project Completion Under Transportation Choices 2020 |
Project Completion Under Metropolitan Council Plan |
2009 |
2009 |
PROJECT UPDATES, NEWS, AND EVENTS
UPDATES
- Northstar to Open in Late 2009. Beginning in late 2009, the Northstar Commuter Rail Line will offer service from Big Lake to downtown Minneapolis for residents and businesses in one of the fastest growing transportation corridors in Minnesota. As part of the state’s first commuter rail line, Northstar trains will provide a fast, reliable, safe and affordable alternative to sitting in traffic congestion.
- Proposed Extensions and Stations. In 2004, the project was shortened from 82 miles to 40 miles in order to qualify for 50% federal funds. However, support among residents and businesses remains strong for extending service to the St. Cloud area.
NEWS
- Groundbreaking Ceremonies Held for Elk River Station. The Northstar Commuter Rail Elk River station officially broke ground in August 2008. On Aug. 22 at 10:30 a.m., residents, senators, commissioners, council members and other key components to the reality of the commuter rail came to celebrate yet another step toward the fall 2009 scheduled running date.
EVENTS
No events at this time.
PROJECT RESOURCES
Northstar Commuter Rail website: http://www.mn-getonboard.org/
MnDOT Northstar Commuter Rail website: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/passengerrail/onepagers/northstar.html
St. Cloud Times Northstar site: http://news.sctimes.com/Northstar/index.html