UPDATE: A new bus route, Route 345, launched on Sunday, connecting riders from Washington and Dakota County directly to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and the Mall of America. This vital addition promises to enhance transit options in the east metro region, restoring service to the Newport Transit Station.
Officials from Metro Transit confirmed that the new service will provide “faster and more reliable” transportation, reducing commute times between Woodbury and the Mall of America by nearly 30 minutes, according to senior service planner Steve Baisden.
Previously, travel from Woodbury to the mall took around 90 minutes using the Gold Line and Route 54. With Route 345, that time drops to about one hour. “This route is a game-changer for our community,” said Karla Bigham, Washington County District 4 Commissioner, emphasizing the importance of this expansion.
Buses on Route 345 will operate hourly from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, connecting seamlessly with other major lines like the Gold Line, Blue Line, and Red Line. This newly established route is part of the Network Now initiative, a Metropolitan Council project aimed at revitalizing transit options following the pandemic.
The route not only enhances accessibility but also aims to meet the evolving travel patterns of local residents. “Public transportation in the east metro was lacking, especially for key destinations like the airport and Mall of America,” Bigham noted, highlighting the route’s significance for those without vehicles.
The Newport Transit Station, which had seen a decline in ridership prior to its temporary closure in spring 2020, is set to benefit from this renewed service. Baisden anticipates an increase in usage as the new route connects previously underserved areas along the Highway 62 and I-494 corridor.
In addition to Route 345, Metro Transit introduced two other routes, 725 and 837, funded by the council’s Regional Transportation Sales and Use Tax. These enhancements reflect a commitment to improving regional accessibility and meet the needs of the community.
Looking ahead, Route 345 will eventually connect with the upcoming G Line along South Robert Street, which is projected to launch in 2028. This expansion promises to further improve transit options for residents in the southeast metro area.
For detailed information regarding the bus schedule and map, visit metrotransit.org. This development marks a significant milestone in enhancing public transportation access, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to connect with essential services and job markets.
