Residents urge Ramsey County to fund West Seventh transit and pedestrian projects, criticize proposed tax-spending plan

Ramsey County commissioners opened a public hearing on June 3, 2025, to gather input on the county's proposed use of transportation sales and use tax funds. Speakers from West Seventh and transit advocacy groups told the board the draft plan understates transit investments and fails to commit county funds to long-delayed West Seventh improvements, including a proposed bus rapid transit (BRT) alternative to the canceled Riverview Corridor and pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure on Randolph Avenue.

John Levin, a Saint Paul resident, told commissioners the county is proposing to spend "nearly three-quarters of a billion dollars" but, in his view, has provided little opportunity for public input and has not stated clear goals for the spending. "It really isn't clear. I think it would be really helpful to start this plan by establishing clear goals," Levin said, urging the board to state whether the plan is meant to prioritize transit-oriented development, mode…