The next phase of light rail construction in Minneapolis and St. Paul is the Central Corridor Line.
The Central Corridor Line (which will be renamed the Green Line when it opens) will link downtown St. Paul to downtown Minneapolis and the Hiawatha Line. The route will serve the Minnesota State Capitol, run along University Avenue in St. Paul, via the University of Minnesota campus and TCF Bank Stadium.
Construction on the Central Corridor Line has been underway since 2010, with considerable construction work and street closures in downtown St. Paul, along University Avenue, and around the University of Minnesota.
Construction started on University Avenue in St. Paul in early 2011. University Avenue traffic flow has been modified in many places - watch for signs and changes especially when turning across the rail lines. Parking is also different, so watch for parking restrictions and new parking lots.
Businesses along University Avenue are open as usual. Diversion signs are posted for businesses when their side of the road is closed.
As of late 2012, the major construction and diversions were completed. Between now and opening day, engineers need to complete the electrical wiring, power and signaling, finish the stations, and test the whole system.
When Will the Central Corridor Light Rail Open?
The Central Corridor Light Rail will be open sometime in 2014, possibly in the late spring or summer. The opening date depends on the results of testing the system, and if any changes or tweaks need to be made as a result of the tests. The latest news on opening day can be found on the Central Corridor website.What did the Central Corridor Light Rail Cost?
The total cost of the project was $957 million, paid for by Federal, State and local funding.The details of current and planned construction work is posted on the Central Corridor website.
