Met Council plans to terminate Northstar transit service, limiting future options

The Sherburne County Board Meeting on March 18, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding the future of the Northstar commuter rail service. Board members expressed frustration over the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and the Metropolitan Council's (Met Council) intentions to terminate the Northstar line, with discussions indicating a timeline for this decision could be measured in months rather than years.

During a recent conference call with state officials, it became clear that the Met Council is not only planning to end Northstar but also has no interest in funding or managing any future transit services outside the seven-county metro area. This decision raises alarms for Sherburne County, as it suggests that any potential bus rapid transit options would need to be entirely reimagined, with no support from the Met Council.

The implications of these developments are profound. The current discussions indicate that any future rail service, such as inner-city rail, would likely bypass Sherburne County altogether, limiting stops primarily to major cities like Minneapolis and Saint Cloud. This could leave residents without reliable transit options, effectively rendering the Northstar line a "bus to nowhere" if it is replaced without adequate planning.

Board members voiced their disappointment over the lack of prior communication from the Met Council and expressed the need for a more collaborative approach moving forward. They are currently compiling a historical overview of the county's financial investments in the Northstar project, which could be crucial in discussions about potential reimbursement if the service is discontinued.

The board plans to engage with local cities, including Big Lake and Elk River, to coordinate efforts in advocating for Sherburne County's interests. They are also considering formally requesting a meeting with Commissioner Zelle and the Commissioner of Transportation to address these pressing concerns.

As the situation develops, the economic implications for the communities involved remain largely unexamined, and there appears to be little appetite from state officials to address these issues comprehensively. The board's next steps will be critical in determining how Sherburne County navigates this challenging transit landscape and advocates for its residents' needs.