Frequently Asked Questions
If work is being done at Cedar-Riverside (or other specific areas) why are you closing the entire Blue Line?
The tracks in both directions will be completely removed near the overnight storage location for Blue Line trains.
Will train service be faster once project is complete?
Service will not necessarily be faster, but the upgrades will allow safer and more efficient routing of trains, reducing delays and improving schedule reliability.
Will there be any bike access or pedestrian crosswalk improvements?
The City of Minneapolis and MnDOT are working with Metro Transit as they rebuild the intersections at 26th St. and 46th St. Crosswalks and ADA features are being improved as part of those projects. Bike path access will also be a part of these improvements. See more info at links below.
- 46th St. Pedestrian and Signals Project at Hiawatha Ave and 46th St.
- 26th St. Safety Improvement Project
How is the track and signals project being funded? Who is doing the work?
Metro Transit is funding this project via local funds, specifically the Motor Vehicle Sales Tax. The construction value of this contract is $80.2 million. As is typical, a Request for Proposals was advertised to many companies that perform this type of work. The contract was awarded to Aldridge Electric, a qualified contractor that offered the lowest responsible bid.
How will this construction impact my neighborhood or my business?
What to expect:
Minimal impact on neighborhoods & businesses
- The Blue Line mostly runs in a dedicated corridor, so construction disruptions will be limited.
- Traffic & activity in work zones
- Expect increased traffic as workers and materials arrive and park at construction sites.
Noise levels & overnight work
- Most work is not heavy construction, so additional noise should be minimal.
- Some overnight work will take place, mainly in signal houses, and is not expected to be loud.
- Rail replacement at various intersections in 2027 will generate some noise.
Loudest work: Rail cutting
- Rail replacement will require saws to cut the rail (about 8 cuts per intersection).
- Each cut will last only a few minutes.
- Standard construction equipment and vehicle backup alarms will be audible.
There are numerous other projects that will happen at the same time and some of those projects may be more disruptive to vehicle traffic. See links for concurrent/adjacent projects being conducted MnDOT, City of Minneapolis and Metro Transit.
- 46th St. Pedestrian and Signals Project at Hiawatha Ave and 46th St.
- 26th St. Safety Improvement Project
- Hi-Lake Project A renovation of the Lake Street/Midtown Station
Will construction workers park in nearby neighborhoods?
It is unlikely you will see workers parking in local neighborhoods. They will typically park their vehicles at the work zone, near the tracks.
What will replacement buses look like?
Buses used for replacement service will be a combination of regular Metro Transit 60’ and 40’ buses. The overhead sign will read “Blue Line Bus.”
How will I pay my fare on the Blue Line replacement buses?
Unlike prior closures, customers should board buses at the front door and pay the farebox with cash or touch their Go-To Card or pass to the Go-To Card reader.
Ways to pay for your ride:
How do I load value on my Go-To Card if light rail stations are closed?
You can add value online or buy tickets from the Metro Transit app.
Can I bring my bike on Blue Line replacement buses?
Yes. All buses have exterior bike racks that can hold two bikes at a time.
What other options (besides replacement buses) are available for travel in the Blue Line corridor?
Biking, carpooling, and regular-route bus service may be good options.