Twin Cities News: MN Green Line Extension Opening Date Set for June 2027

 The Metro Transit Green Line Extension will officially open on June 12, 2027. The 14.5-mile light rail project will add 16 new stations to the regional network, creating a continuous transit corridor from downtown Minneapolis to Eden Prairie.

Route and Economic Impact

The extension, also known as the Southwest Light Rail, will run through St. Louis Park, Hopkins, Minnetonka, and Eden Prairie. It will provide direct access to major employment hubs like Methodist Hospital and the Opus Campus. The project has already driven over $3.2 billion in local housing and commercial development along the alignment.

Overcoming Delays and Costs

Originally scheduled to open in 2018, the project faced years of construction challenges, including complex tunneling in Minneapolis. These hurdles caused the final budget to double to nearly $3 billion, making it one of the most expensive public works projects in Minnesota history.

Next Steps Before Launch

Metro Transit crews are currently conducting rigorous safety testing and emergency response drills. Comprehensive system testing and driver training will continue up until the first passengers board next June.