A planned closure on the Metro Transit Green Line to St. Paul is set to impact travel for concert goers later this month.
Thirteen Green Line stations between Raymond Ave. and Union Depot will close from July 11 through July 20 for scheduled track and bridge maintenance, impacting commuters and attendees of the Minnesota Yacht Club Festival.
That planned closure is sparking frustration from The St. Paul Deputy Mayor's Office.
“We’re anticipating nearly 100,000 people for the Minnesota Yacht Club Festival next weekend, and we are thrilled to kick off three days of music and entertainment in Saint Paul," says a statement from St. Paul Deputy Mayor Jaime Tincher's office provided to WCCO. "To ensure festivalgoers get to Harriet Island safely, Metro Transit buses will run along the light rail route with connections to both downtown Saint Paul and Minneapolis. There are rideshare and biking options, as well as downtown parking ramps. Our focus is on providing people another exceptional experience, and that includes access to reliable public transportation.
Metro Transit's Drew Kerr says their was communication with the office well beforehand.
"There's been always a lot of communication back and forth between us and our partners and that's true here, and true generally," Kerr explains.
He adds buses will replace trains along the affected route, and getting to the show will still be possible on public transit for anyone who wishes to use it.
“Anticipating larger crowds this year, we began planning in January, in coordination with Metro Transit, to enhance transportation options based on direct feedback calling for more frequent rideshare and light rail options," continues the statement from Tincher. "Metro Transit is a regular participant within our Citywide Special Events and Festivals Committee. It’s frustrating that we are preparing alternative options during this huge event for routine maintenance that could have been scheduled before or after these three days.”
The Yacht Club Festival runs July 18 through 20 at Harriet Island Regional Park. Headliners include Hozier, Alabama Shakes, Green Day, Fall Out Boy, Sublime, and Weezer along with many other artists and many other festival activities.
WCO has reached out to the mayor's office for comment and have yet to hear back.
Green Line Closure
Starting at 10:00 p.m. on Friday, July 11 until Monday, July 21, Green Line service between Raymond Ave. and Union Depot will be unavailable due to required maintenance. Replacement bus service will be available during this time.
Train service will return at these stations by 4:00 a.m. on Monday, July 21.
NOTE: Replacement bus timing can vary and trips may take longer because of needed routing and traffic conditions. Please plan extra time for your trip.
Work being conducted includes replacement of worn track, other track work in the corridor, and concrete work on the Cedar Street bridge.