Minneapolis St. Paul, MN, September 28, 2026 —

Metro Transit is preparing to launch its Green Line Extension, with service slated to begin on June 12, 2027. This significant expansion will add 16 new light rail stops, extending the Green Line’s reach westward from Minneapolis into the suburban communities of St. Louis Park, Hopkins, and Eden Prairie.

The extension aims to enhance transit connectivity and accessibility for residents and commuters in these western suburbs. The new stations will be integrated into the existing transit network, providing a direct link to downtown Minneapolis and other areas served by the Green Line.

SouthWest Transit, an independent transit agency that operates within the service area of the new extension, has voiced its anticipation for the opening. The agency’s service area includes the terminus of the new light rail line. A spokesperson for SouthWest Transit indicated that the agency is excited about the development and anticipates a potential increase in ridership across the region.

In response to the upcoming extension, SouthWest Transit is reportedly planning to expand its own services. While specific details regarding the scope of these planned service expansions were not provided, the agency’s proactive approach suggests a strategy to complement the new light rail service and capture anticipated growth in transit demand. The precise nature of the planned service enhancements and their timelines were not detailed in the provided information.

The Green Line Extension project represents a substantial investment in public transportation infrastructure for the metropolitan area. The addition of 16 new stops signifies a broad expansion of light rail service, aiming to provide an efficient and reliable transit option for a larger segment of the population. Further details on the operational plans for both Metro Transit and SouthWest Transit are expected as the opening date approaches.


Story summarized from the original created by Trevor Mitchell on www.minnpost.com, see more information here.

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