Network Now is a vision for transit service that best meets the needs of our region through 2027. This framework guides improvements to grow ridership, enhance mobility, and meet travel needs. The framework outlined in this report represents the region’s top priorities for transit as captured in more than 8,000 comments over multiple years, coupled with policy guidance, and technical evaluation. Changes made to this report from the draft concept were guided by community feedback. Network Now responds to the priorities outlined in Forward, Metro Transit’s strategic plan, by delivering on service goals.
When fully implemented, the Network Now framework will:
- Expand transit service by more than 40% to help attract more riders
- Improve access by providing new bus routes and Metro micro service
- Modify commuter and express service to meet today’s travel patterns
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging transit use
The Network Now Framework was endorsed by the Met Council on March 26, 2025. We are now in the process of implementing Network Now through quarterly service changes. As of March 2026, 42% of the Network Now framework will have been implemented.
2025 Network Now Service Improvements
- Improved frequency and service on 54 of 101 routes we operate including new weekend and evening service on Route 94
- Added Key Express Network service on routes 250, 673, and 768
- Restored routes 860, 134, and 765
- METRO Gold Line, B Line, and E Line implemented
- Four Metro micro zones added: Roseville Area, Woodbury Area, Bloomington Area, and Blaine Area, adding almost 60 square miles of coverage in areas previously without regular transit access
- New routes introduced: 27, 38, 72, 156, 345, 725, and 827
- Better Bus Routes Improvements made on Route 7 and Route 61
Planned for 2026:
- Frequency improvements on routes 17, 22, 25, 94, 270, and 804 (see full list of March service changes)
- Renew the Blue replacement bus service
- Better Bus Routes 14 and 74
- U of M Express route improvements
- Evening service improvements on routes 11, 32, 722, and 724
- 2 new Metro micro zones
2027 Look Ahead:
- Gold Line Extension
- Green Line Extension & connecting bus service
- G Line (Phase 1)
- East Metro route restructuring
- Highway 55 Improvements
- Renew the Blue replacement bus service
- 2 new Metro micro zones
- 10-minute frequency span improvements
- U of M service improvements
- Express service improvements
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Project contact
Julie Martinez
Community Outreach
[email protected]