Minneapolis Southwest light-rail funding proposal advances

A Federal Transit Administration grant to help pay for the construction of a 14.5-mile Southwest light-rail line in downtown Minneapolis advanced to Congress for approval this week, local news sources reported yesterday. 

If approved, the $929 million grant would contribute to the Metropolitan Council’s $2 billion light-rail project to link downtown Minneapolis to Eden Prairie, Minnesota. The line is under construction and slated to open in 2023, according to the Star Tribune.

The project's total cost will be covered by a mix of federal, state and local funds.

Congress will have 30 days to review the full funding grant agreement. Following Congressional notification, the grant is expected to be awarded, Metropolitan Council officials said in a press release.