Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the date of the Lake Street/Midtown Station construction get pushed out to 2027? Metro Transit advertised the project in Fall 2025 but did not receive any bids from construction contractors. Project staff continue to review potential project risks, requirements, and schedule factors.
When will construction begin? When will these changes take place?
We anticipate that the station will be closed starting April 2027. Substantial track and light rail system replacement elsewhere on the Blue Line, along with a structural renovation of the station will be coordinated to reduce the amount of time the Blue Line service is impacted. We expect the construction of the new station to continue through the end of 2028.
What is the purpose of the light rail station renovation?
After 20 years of use, the Lake Street/Midtown Station is due for a renovation. With this station renovation, we are improving the waiting conditions to be more comfortable and safer. Reliable and clear accessibility between Lake Street and the elevated light rail platform is essential. We understand that many customers transfer between the Blue Line and bus service on Lake Street, so we are enhancing the connections between these services, as well as integrating the station area with the nearby Market Square.
What kinds of features will the station have?
Like other light rail stations, transit customers will continue to have:
- Bike racks
- Information about the stop/route/system
- Real-time information signs
- Security cameras
- Emergency telephones
- Station lighting
- Ticket machines for off-board fare purchases using cash or credit card, or for adding value to a Go-To Card
When will construction begin? When will these changes take place?
We anticipate that the station will be closed starting April 2027. Substantial track and light rail system replacement elsewhere on the Blue Line, along with a structural renovation of the station will be coordinated to reduce the amount of time the Blue Line service is impacted. We expect the construction of the new station to continue through the end of 2028.
What can change? What can’t?
The north and south elevator buildings and all transit customer amenities on the Blue Line platform will be renovated. With our stated project goals to improve accessibility, safety, and maintenance of the station, you can expect improvements to how transit customers can move to and from the elevated platform, including new elevators and a new pedestrian ramp on the south side of the station.
Amenities that will be updated include:
- Decorative lighting
- Transit Service Center
- Bike storage
- Street-level seating
The existing light rail bridge structure and the public right-of-way are not included in the renovation scope.
Is this related to the Hiawatha-Lake Interchange work?
The Hiawatha-Lake Interchange project reconstructed Lake Street under the transit station to create a safer intersection. Our station renovation will coordinate pedestrian and bike connections from Lake Street to the elevated station platform with integrated lighting, landscaping, and wayfinding.
Will there be other changes to the Blue Line?We are improving the transit customer experience by updating and modernizing stations to ensure they are clean, comfortable, and accessible. These improvements are part of Renew the Blue, a multi-year initiative that includes projects to replace light rail track and signals along this section of the Blue Line, station renovations and station upgrades. The construction is being closely coordinated to reduce service impacts to transit customers at this station
Will light rail service be disrupted during the renovation?
The station will be closed to customers during demolition and heavy construction. Trains will be going through the station but not stopping, alternate routes will be identified.
What changes are being made to improve safety and security at the station?
Safety and security are priorities to Metro Transit. Security cameras, emergency buttons, lightening, and 24/7 Security will exist at this station. The renovation project includes operational spaces that increase transit staffing on site to enhance security and safety. Learn more about Metro Transit's Safety & Security Action Plan.
Project Contact
Kevin Murray
Community Outreach Coordinator
[email protected]
763-337-0885