We hear from our actual customers as they answer our “10 Questions with Metro Transit!” Today we meet Fred.
How long have you been riding the bus or train?
Five years. Before the METRO Gold Line opened, I used transit once or twice to commute to work at 3M. But it was too long and complicated, so I commuted by bike most days, weather permitting. Having the Gold Line is a great option. If the weather isn’t great or I don’t feel super motivated, I don’t have to think very hard about my commute with the Gold Line. The route is so easy. I don’t have to worry about the stops or how long the bus is going to take, and there is only one change for me, at Central Station. I live near Selby and Snelling avenues and walk to the Green Line on University Avenue and ride to Central Station where I transfer to the Gold Line and go to Maplewood Station for my job at Solventum.
How often do you ride?
I am committed to doing it at least once a week. It’s a mix of driving, cycling and the Gold Line.
Favorite route(s)?
The Gold Line is amazing. I also like the convenience of the Green Line. You can go to bars or events where parking is a problem.
Why do you ride transit?
Part of my commitment to riding the Green Line is to help make it feel safer by having more people on it.
What you wish “first timers” knew?
That it is easy to use. For the Gold Line, it's also fast. From downtown Saint Paul to 3M Center, it’s almost not long enough. I wish it were slower so I could get more work done. I get my laptop out, and we’re almost there.
Favorite destination?
Taking the Green Line to the farmers’ market in Lowertown Saint Paul.
What does Metro Transit get right?
The frequency of the Gold Line is great because I don’t want to worry about what time it’s coming. Every 10 minutes is just right. I don’t have to think. I just walk out there. Sometimes the bus is coming, and I have to run but I know I really don’t have to because another bus is coming.
What can we improve?
I don’t think there is anything to improve on the Gold Line. I can’t wait for the Kellogg Bridge to get back because it will be that much quicker (Gold Line is on a two-year detour while the bridge is being replaced). The train will go to the end of the Green Line at Union Depot, and the BRT will be right there and everything will be slick. I don’t mean that it isn’t great now. The route is really top notch.
Favorite onboard memory?
I am a Scout leader. We do something called Urban Adventure every year. It’s a scavenger-type hunt where you have to take transit all through Saint Paul and Minneapolis, and you collect points by visiting different locations. You have kids who have never been on transit. This gets them to know transit is easy and they can do it.
Favorite movie about transit?
“Speed.”