Minnesota’s first dedicated BRT finishes on time and under budget
MINNEAPOLIS (March 26, 2025) – HNTB proudly joins Metro Transit, Washington County and Ramsey County in celebrating the completion of the METRO Gold Line Bus Rapid Transit Project, a landmark achievement for Minnesota’s transit network. As the state’s first BRT line that runs primarily on dedicated lanes, the Gold Line marks a new era of fast, reliable and accessible transportation. To mark the opening, Metro Transit held a celebratory ribbon-cutting.
The Gold Line BRT is delivering efficient travel across St. Paul, Maplewood, Landfall, Oakdale and Woodbury. The corridor includes four new BRT-exclusive bridges, two underpasses and 16 fully equipped stations with real-time departure information, heated shelters, lighting and bike racks. The system is served by a mixed fleet of diesel and electric buses, reinforcing the region’s commitment to sustainable transit solutions.
Since joining the project as program management consultant in 2017, HNTB has played a key role in securing federal approvals and funding. Additionally, HNTB provided critical oversight in environmental, Capital Investment Grant Program Submittals, contract administration, constructability reviews, cost estimating and project controls. This included independent cost estimating and schedule reviews, ensuring an efficient and high-quality delivery with the project opening on time and under budget.
“The success of this project is a direct result of the exceptional teamwork, visionary leadership, and commitment from Metro Transit and all partners,” said Sara Hage, AICP, ASLA, HNTB’s Minnesota office leader and vice president. “By prioritizing innovation, sustainability and community engagement, this project elevates the transit experience for riders traveling across multiple counties and sets a new standard for future BRT investments in the state and beyond.”
“The METRO Gold Line will deliver fast, frequent all-day and reliable service that best meets today’s travel behaviors, and is a game-changer for access for East Metro residents and transit riders,” said Alicia Vap, Gold Line BRT project director at Metro Transit. “The project represents a strong commitment to serving the East Metro community, and we are grateful for the collaboration and funding from our project partners that brought this vision to life.”
With safety and efficiency as a priority, METRO Gold Line introduced new transit signals to manage bus and traffic operations and upgraded pedestrian and cyclist facilities along the corridor. These improvements will continue to enhance the accessibility and safety of Minnesota’s transit network.
“Working on the METRO Gold Line has been an incredible experience, and we are honored to have had the opportunity to collaborate with Metro Transit and all the stakeholders involved,” said Michelle Spielmann, project controls manager at HNTB.
