Metropolitan Council approves reforms for Southwest Light Rail project amid OLA audit feedback

The Minnesota Legislative Audit Commission meeting on April 8, 2025, spotlighted the ongoing progress of the Southwest Light Rail project, also known as the Green Line Extension. Officials reported that the project is currently 85% complete, with significant milestones achieved, including the near-finish of the Kenilworth Tunnel. The project, which is the largest infrastructure initiative in Minnesota's history, is on track for revenue service by 2027.

A key highlight from the meeting was the positive outcome of the Office of the Legislative Auditor (OLA) review, which confirmed that there were no overpayments and that all regulatory procedures were followed. This assurance is crucial for maintaining taxpayer trust as the project continues to unfold. The audit also identified areas for improvement, prompting the Council to implement reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency.

Among the findings, the Council acknowledged discrepancies in change order estimates and has since adopted new practices, including hiring a cost estimating consultant to align with best practices. Additionally, the project has exceeded its goal for disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) participation, achieving 22% of total work, which translates to approximately $300 million invested in DBEs.

While the Council expressed satisfaction with the current progress, they also recognized the need for ongoing improvements in monitoring and documentation processes. The meeting underscored the project's potential as a transformative investment for the metro area, with over $3 billion in permitted projects already underway along the 14-mile alignment. As the project moves closer to completion, officials remain committed to addressing the OLA's recommendations to ensure its success and accountability.