The METRO C Line is now open!
Summary of changes to Route 19 (Effective Saturday, June 8)
C Line (Route page)
What is the C Line?
The C Line is METRO Bus Rapid Transit service that delivers a faster trip and an improved transit experience. Buses operate so frequently you won’t need a schedule. Plus, C Line offers up to 25 percent faster service than Route 19. And more than half of the buses are all-electric, making the C Line the cleanest route in town!
On the C Line, you pay your fare before you get on – just like light rail – so buses keep moving more of the time. Also, the bus has three doors and you can get on or off through any of them.
C Line stations feature enhanced amenities, like NexTrip real-time departure information signs, security cameras, emergency phones and trash cans.
How are C Line buses different than regular buses?
C Line buses are 60-foot “articulated” buses with wider aisles, more seating capacity and three doors so customers can get on and off quickly.
More than half of the C Line buses are fully electric, completely eliminating tailpipe emissions. The Xcelsior CHARGE™ battery-electric buses were manufactured by St. Cloud, Minnesota-based New Flyer of America.
All buses have new rear-facing, customer-operated securements for people using mobility devices. They also have free onboard Wi-Fi and USB ports.
How are C Line stations different from regular bus stops?
C Line stations have heated, well-lit customer waiting shelters and feature enhanced amenities:
- NexTrip real-time departure information
- security cameras
- emergency phones
- bike racks
- seating/benches
- trash cans and snow removal
Buses stop at C Line stations on demand only. It’s another way to keep buses moving to cut down your travel time.
What is the METRO network?
The C Line is part of Metro Transit’s METRO network of Bus Rapid Transit and light-rail service, which offers fast, frequent service at the same price as regular buses. The METRO Blue and Green lines offer light-rail service in Minneapolis and St. Paul; the METRO Red Line provides Bus Rapid Transit service between Mall of America and Apple Valley; the METRO A Line and C Line provide bus rapid transit in mixed traffic with signal priority and the planned Orange and Gold lines operate on dedicated roadways and freeways with transit advantages.
Do C Line buses cost more to ride?
No. C Line fares are the same as regular buses and light rail but the C Line offers frequent – and faster – service!
How do I pay my C Line fare?
You must pay before boarding a C Line bus. METRO C Line buses DO NOT have fareboxes or Go-To Card readers onboard. Ticket machines and Go-To Card readers are available at every station. Ticket machines take exact change or credit cards.
How does the driver know I paid my fare?
C Line drivers do not collect fares. Metro Transit Police officers will frequently board buses to enforce fare payment. Be prepared to show your C Line ticket, transfer or validated Go-To Card, pass or mobile app ticket as proof of payment.