Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the light rail station renovation?
After 20 years of use, the Lake Street/Midtown Station is due for a renovation. With this station renovation, we are improving the waiting conditions to be more comfortable and safer. Reliable and clear accessibility between Lake Street and the elevated light rail platform is essential. We understand that many customers transfer between the Blue Line and bus service on Lake Street, so we are enhancing the connections between these services, as well as integrating the station area with the nearby Market Square.
What kinds of features will the station have?
Like other light rail stations, transit customers will continue to have:
- Bike racks
- Containers for garbage and recycling
- Information about the stop/route/system
- Real-time information signs
- Security cameras
- Emergency telephones
- Station lighting
- Ticket machines for off-board fare purchases using cash or credit card, or for adding value to a Go-To Card
When will construction begin? When will these changes take place?
We anticipate that the station, and portions of the Blue Line will be closed for parts of 2026. Substantial track and light rail system replacement along with a structural renovation of the station will be coordinated to reduce the amount of time the station is fully closed. We expect the construction of the new station to continue through the start of 2027.
What can change? What can’t?
The north and south elevator buildings and all transit customer amenities on the Blue Line platform are being considered for renovation. With our stated project goals to improve accessibility, safety, and maintenance of the station, you can expect changes to how transit customers can move to and from the elevated platform.
Amenities currently being explored include but are not limited to the following:
- Decorative lighting
- Transit Service Center
- Bike Storage
- Street-Level Seating
The existing light rail bridge structure and the public right-of-way are not included in the renovation scope.
Is this related to the Hiawatha-Lake Interchange work?
The Hiawatha-Lake Interchange project is making changes to Lake Street under the transit station to create a safer intersection. Our station renovation will coordinate pedestrian and bike connections from Lake Street to the elevated station platform with integrated lighting, landscaping, and wayfinding. Our station renovation project will be completed after the Hiawatha-Lake Interchange construction is completed.
Will there be other changes to the Blue Line?
We are looking to improve the transit customer experience by updating and modernizing stations to ensure they are clean, comfortable, and accessible. A separate but coordinated project will replace light rail track and signals along this section of the Blue Line in 2026. The construction is being closely coordinated to reduce service impacts to transit customers at this station.
Will light rail service be disrupted during the renovation?
As we continue through the design phase and move into the engineering phase any disruptions to service will be evaluated with detours and alternative routes named.
What changes are being made to improve safety and security at the station?
Safety and security are priorities to Metro Transit. Security cameras, emergency buttons, lightening, and 24/7 Security will exist at this station. The renovation project also allows us to explore design options that enhance security and safety. Learn more about Metro Transit's Safety & Security Action Plan.
Project Contact
Alyssia Bell
Associate Community Outreach Coordinator
[email protected]
612-474-4753