New Transit Hub in Minneapolis

Big changes for the city of Minneapolis are coming in terms of transportation projects. Hennepin County is pushing for a $79.3 million two-tiered transit hub where five commuter rails would intersect near Target Field. This new development, currently being called “The Interchange,” could become a busy entertainment center for people coming in and out and moving around the city. 

The only bid for the project was from the Minnesota Twins baseball team which has paired with a local development company, United Properties. There is talk about including an amphitheater, restaurants, and a Metro Transit Police station, which would ensure a safe environment, for the development. The Interchange embodies the principles of open transit, integrating all modes of transportation. It will incorporate culture, architecture, community, natural spaces, entertainment, and of course, transit lines. The Great Lawn will be the center of the hub; it is a large green space for pre-game events, community concerts, individual activities, and park space for the downtown area.

The partnership with the Twins would increase interest, and foot traffic, and would boost transit use in the area surrounding Target Field, where the Twins play. There is still much to talk about in terms of money, parking, development, and naming rights between the team and the development company, but the basic ideas are in place.

The Interchange is scheduled to open in spring of 2014.

                                                     Illustration of the completed project 

(source: www.theinterchange.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=44&Itemid=228)

                                        Arial photo of the location in downtown Minneapolis 

(source: http://www.theinterchange.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=79&Itemid=54)

Special thanks to Matt B. for editing.

References:

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/209095641.html

http://www.theinterchange.net/