Washington, DC [09/14/2020]–Today Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) announced a $928.8 million Federal Transit Administration grant for the Southwest Light Rail.
Once completed, the 14.5-mile, 16-station extension of the METRO Green Line will connect downtown Minneapolis to Eden Prairie, serving residents in Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, nearby Edina, Hopkins, Minnetonka and Eden Prairie. The $2.003 billion project will be the largest public infrastructure project in the state’s history.
The Senators said the project will provide a significant economic boost to the region, both during construction when it creates jobs, as well as afterward when it will carry thousands of passengers to work, shopping and other venues along the line.
“After years of hard work by many in our state, the Southwest Light Rail project is moving forward and we are pleased to announce this major public transit infrastructure investment in Minnesota,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “At a time when the pandemic has had a devastating impact on public transportation, this critical infrastructure investment will help connect Minnesotans to work, school, their communities, and support economic growth in our region.”
“We need to create an economy that works for everyone, and connect people with opportunities all across the state,” said Sen. Smith. “This project will help us achieve that goal by providing an important transportation option for Minnesotans in Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, near Edina, Hopkins, Minnetonka, and Eden Prairie. What’s more, this investment will support thousands of jobs during the construction of the line. I’m excited for this extension to start to taking shape.”
English