Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hiawatha LRT?
The Hiawatha LRT connects Downtown Minneapolis with the Mall of America and the Lindbergh and Humphrey airport terminals.

How long does it take to get to the airport from downtown?
Total trip time from Warehouse District Station to Lindbergh terminal is 25 minutes. A stop at the Humphrey terminal follows two minutes later.

Where can I park and ride the light rail?
There are nearly 1,800 free parking spaces near light rail stations between Lake Street and 28th Avenue in Bloomington. Click here for details and maps.

How fast do the trains go?
Top speed in 55 mph, however trains travel no more than 45 mph through intersections. In downtown Minneapolis, trains do not exceed 20 mph.

How many people can fit on a train?
Each 94-foot light-rail car can hold 66 seated passengers plus standing room for 120. Trains often consist of two cars coupled together.

Why doesn't Metro Transit use turnstiles to ensure that LRT riders are paying their fares?
Metro Transit utilizes a barrier-free fare-collection system which is used by the majority of light-rail systems in North America. The average fare evasion rate for this type of system is 2%, which far lower than the cost to maintain and operate turnstiles. Of course, Transit Police do randomly request that passengers provide proof of fare payment. Passengers who do not provide valid proof end up paying a $180 fine including court costs.

Do Trains have to stop at traffic lights?
Only in downtown Minneapolis. On the rest of the line, traffic lights are preempted to help trains stay on time.

What is the Northstar Commuter Rail?
The Northstar Corridor is an 82-mile transportation corridor that runs along Highway 10 from the St. Cloud/Rice area to downtown Minneapolis. It is one of the fastest growing corridors in Minnesota and the nation. It is projected that by 2025, more than 850,000 people will be living in the Northstar Corridor, an increase of about 200,000 people.

The Northstar Commuter Rail project is being developed to serve a 40-mile portion of that corridor from Big Lake to Minneapolis. Project planners hope to extend the line to the full corridor in the future.

When will the Northstar Commuter Rail begin service?
The Northstar Commuter Rail is scheduled to begin service in late 2009.

What is the Central Corridor LRT?
The Central Corridor LRT line will connect downtown Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul along University and Washington avenues through the State Capitol complex, Midway area and University of Minnesota.

When will the Central Corridor LRT begin service?
Pending approval of federal funding, the Central Corridor LRT will begin service in 2014.