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Connections and Accessibility

Ride Transit Today!

If you are not already riding transit, consider starting today. A recent report from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) shows the average Minnesotan can save $675 dollars per month by using public transportation. That’s more than $8,100 per household annually – more than the typical family spends in groceries each year. Even as we prepare for Northstar Rail service to begin, there are transit options available for you to start using today.

Northstar Commuter Coach — The Northstar Corridor Development Authority currently offers transit service to commuters via the Northstar Commuter Coach bus service. Commuter Coach buses stop at Elk River and Coon Rapids-Riverdale park-and-ride lots and travel to the 5th Street Transit Station in downtown Minneapolis eight times between 5:30 a.m. and 8 a.m. weekdays along with eight return trips from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.

The Northstar Commuter Coach honors regional fare cards, such as Metro Transit passes and coupons. Fares cost between $4.50 each way between Elk River and Minneapolis and $2.75 each way between Coon Rapids and Minneapolis.

Ramsey Star Express — The City of Ramsey also sponsors commuter bus service from the Ramsey Park and Ride lot.

Future Connections

The Northstar Line will provide an important link to a much longer and broader transit network in the Metro Area and Central Minnesota. Northstar trains will connect you with other transit services to get you where you need to go — no extra cost. Northstar Commuter Rail and other transit schedules and connection information will be available at each station.

In downtown Minneapolis — At the new Minnesota Twins’ ballpark, Northstar riders can transfer free-of-charge to:

The Hiawatha Light Rail Line, with service to the Metrodome, VA Medical Center, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and Mall of America
Metro Transit bus service, a short walk from the Northstar tranist station
The downtown Minneapolis skyway system and area bicycle routes

In Big Lake — Northstar Commuter Coach bus service is currently under consideration to connect commuters between St. Cloud and Big Lake. Metro Transit is also considering other potential bus connector services.

At other Northstar stations – Metro Transit is currently working with individual communities and local transportation services to potentially provide bus service between Northstar stations and other locations.

Accessibility

Northstar Commuter Rail service will be in full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

All station platforms will include ramps to provide easy access for people in wheelchairs, passengers with strollers or to accommodate other needs.

Northstar trains will be equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for people with disabilities or elderly passengers.