Feds Green-Light Minnesota's Next Big Transit Project

ST. LOUIS PARK, MN — Construction can begin on Minnesota's next light rail extension after federal authorities gave it the green light Wednesday. The $2 billion project will be the largest infrastructure project in the state’s history and is expected to create 7,500 construction jobs, with an estimated $350 million payroll, according to the Metropolitan Council.

The SWLRT is a 14.5-mile line with 16 stations serving Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, nearby Edina, Hopkins, Minnetonka and Eden Prairie.

“This news is long-awaited and hard-earned,” Gov. Mark Dayton said in a statement.

“The Southwest Light Rail Transit project is a critical economic development project for the people of Minnesota. When complete, it will improve many thousands of lives from Eden Prairie to North Minneapolis. It will create new jobs, reduce highway congestion, and better connect Minnesotans to one another."

Early construction activities this winter could include staffing and equipment mobilization, site clearance, demolition and utility work, according to a news release.

Heavy construction would occur in 2019-2022, with testing of the system with new light rail vehicles anticipated in 2022-2023.

SWLRT is expected to begin passenger service in 2023 as an extension of the METRO Green Line.

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