Senator Jerry Relph (R-St. Cloud) announced funding to study extending the Northstar Commuter Rail to St. Cloud is included in the final transportation budget agreement. The provision is part of the larger omnibus transportation budget.

“I am pleased funds for an assessment, analysis, and review of the project to extend Northstar to St. Cloud are included in the final transportation budget agreement. It is important to have all the details about the proposal to make sure all concerns are addressed before moving forward,” said Senator Relph, who authored a Senate bill to complete the study. “Bringing the Northstar Commuter Rail to St. Cloud has been an ongoing, bipartisan effort in our community for years – and before we make such a significant decision, it is important to have all the facts and consider all possibilities.”

The provision in the transportation budget appropriates $650,000 for an analysis and review of the proposed Northstar Commuter Rail extension. Currently, the Northstar Commuter Rail offers daily service from downtown Minneapolis to Big Lake, with stops in Elk River, Ramsey, Anoka, Coon Rapids, and Fridley.

The legislature is expected to pass the transportation budget in the coming days. 

“I intend to work closely with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to ensure this money is used to develop a meaningful plan so we can move forward with the project. Connecting the Northstar Commuter Rail to St. Cloud will bring mobility to the elderly and disabled, students, veterans, and workforce – both to and from St. Cloud. Those traveling to sports events and others will also benefit from the service. This study will allow policymakers to be better informed as we make these decisions,” said Senator Relph.

Senator Jerry Relph represents St. Cloud, Waite Park, St. Augusta, Haven Township, Minden Township, and St. Joseph Township in the Minnesota Senate.

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