Gold Line receives $239 million in federal funding to improve East Metro transit
Today, Ramsey County gathered with federal, state and local leaders to celebrate the award of $239 million in federal funding for the Gold Line. This funding builds off the $241 million in county funding already committed to improve transit in the East Metro.
“An added advantage for the Gold Line is that it will be the first BRT (bus rapid transit) service in Minnesota to operate primarily in bus-only lanes. This will ensure on time arrival while providing a premium travel experience and the permanency required to generate substantial economic development," stated Commissioner Ortega.
The 10-mile Gold Line is a critical piece of the overall transit plan for Ramsey County residents offering connectivity to the Green Line LRT, the proposed Purple Line and Riverview corridors, and multiple Arterial BRT corridors. Together, this system, designed for the needs of today’s transit user, will greatly improve access to jobs, healthcare, education, and recreation destinations.
"Improved transit service along this route is critically important since 13% of the households do not have cars, 16%of the population lives in poverty and 44% of the population is racially and ethnically diverse," added county board chair MatasCastillo.