A Line Project FAQs

A Line (Snelling rapid bus project)

Frequently Asked Questions about the A Line

 

What is arterial BRT?

Arterial BRT (rapid bus) is a new kind of bus service for the Twin Cities' busiest urban streets that delivers a faster trip and an improved transit experience. Read more information here.

Why was Snelling Avenue selected for rapid bus?

In the 2011-2012 Arterial Transitway Corridors Study, Metro Transit studied 12 high-ridership urban corridors for rapid bus service. Through extensive analysis and stakeholder involvement, the study found that rapid bus service would perform well on Snelling Avenue, Ford Parkway and 46th Street, and the project became the top priority for implementation with city and county support. 

How were community members involved in planning?

During project planning and design in 2013-2014, three stakeholder committees advised on project recommendations to the Metropolitan Council. See Committees/Decision-Making. Broader public input also helped shape the project. See Meetings and Events for the record of comments and involvement throughout project development. Opportunities for community voices to be heard were advertised through neighborhood groups, on Metro Transit buses and trains and in other communications. 

Where do A Line buses stop?

The A Line has 20 stations located roughly every half mile to connect with intersecting bus routes and serve existing high-ridership stops and major destinations.

When does the A Line's frequency and hours of service?

The A Line operates every 10 minutes during rush hours, midday, evenings and weekends, with less frequent service in the early morning and late at night.

Does the A Line replace existing routes on Snelling Avenue and Ford Parkway?

The A Line was planned as the primary route serving Snelling Avenue and Ford Parkway with increased service in evenings and on weekends, substantially replacing much of Route 84. Local Route 84 continues to operate every 30 minutes, serving Snelling Avenue, Montreal Avenue, St. Paul Avenue, West 7th Street and Davern Street.

When was the A Line constructed?

Construction began in July 2015 and concluded in June 2016. Read construction updates here.

How much did the A Line cost to build?

The total cost of the A Line project was $27 million. This includes:

  • $15 million to construct stations and related technology and fare collection elements
  • $7 million to purchase new BRT vehicles for the service
  • $1 million to add transit signal priority
  • $4 million to design the stations, roadway improvements and technology
 

How was the project funded?

The A Line project was funded by a mix of federal, state and local funds:

  • The federal government provided $7 million in grants and bonds
  • The State of Minnesota provided $16 million in bonds and general funds
  • The Metropolitan Council provided $4 million in local funding