Train Service From Minneapolis To Duluth Moves Closer To Reality

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — A proposed "higher speed" passenger rail project that would provide service between Minneapolis and Duluth moved one step closer to becoming a reality this week. The Federal Railroad Administration found that the Northern Lights Express will not have a significant environmental impact and can now proceed to seek funding for its final design and construction.

The train service would span approximately 152 miles long and travel at about 90 mph. A portion of the route will travel through Douglas County in Wisconsin.

Stations are proposed in six communities: Minneapolis, Coon Rapids, Cambridge, Hinckley, and Duluth, and Superior.

The entire line would utilize an existing BNSF rail corridor.

Check out the timeline of the project below:

2013

• Completed Tier 1 Service Level Environmental Assessment
• Finding of No Significant Impact received

2013-2015

• Initial ridership forecasts, revenue projections, benefit assessment completed

2014-2015

• Identify locations for stations and other facilities identified
• Operating plan defined
• Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Review initiated

2015

• Preliminary engineering of public roadways and bridges initiated

2015-2016

• Preliminary engineering of public roadways and bridges completed
• Preliminary engineering of track and railroad bridges by BNSF ongoing
• Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Review ongoing

2017

• Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Review (ongoing)
• Public engagement (ongoing)

2018-2019

• Final design and construction (2.5 years)
• Testing (1 year)
• Public engagement (ongoing)

2020

• Operation (potential service starts 2020)

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