Bill > SF2182

This bill establishes specific performance requirements and a potential termination process for the Northstar Commuter Rail Line, a passenger rail service connecting downtown Minneapolis to Big Lake, Minnesota. The bill defines the Northstar rail service and sets three key performance metrics: if ridership falls below 450,000 in any six-month period or 900,000 annually, or if the farebox recovery ratio (the percentage of operating costs covered by passenger fares) is less than 40 percent in a calendar year, starting from June 2025 and 2026 respectively, the Metropolitan Council must take specific actions. These actions include seeking a federal waiver for transportation-related obligations and, if performance standards are not met, completely decommissioning the rail service. This would involve stopping passenger service, closing stations, terminating all related agreements, returning properties to the commissioner of transportation, and selling all Northstar-related assets. Any revenue from asset sales would be deposited into the general fund. The bill applies to seven Minnesota counties and becomes effective immediately after final enactment, potentially setting a strict performance standard for the commuter rail line's continued operation.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2182&ssn=0&y=2025