With just a few days left before the Metro Transit Gold Line opens were getting a sneak preview of what the new route has to offer.
The 10-mile route provides service between Woodbury and downtown St. Paul and will be Minnesota's first rapid transit line that operates mostly within bus-only lanes promising a faster commute.
Project Director Alicia Vap says it's all part of a new design that prioritizes an over all faster transit system.
"It's a very reliable travel time because it's in its own bus-only lanes, it doesn't have to wait for another vehicle, somebody blocking the bus lane," Vap explains. "So that definitely is an advantage."
Those new, dedicated bus lanes will allow for arrival times every 10-15 minutes.
"This will be a great opportunity for the East Metro," says Vap. "It'll be a great opportunity for Metro Transit to see how ridership is going and to see how customers take take advantage of the service."
There are 16 stops along the route, including Woodbury, Oakdale, Landfall, Maplewood, St. Paul East Side, and Downtown St. Paul. Buses will also be unique and recognizable with wider aisles and additional doors and folding seats to make room for wheelchairs and strollers.
The route's grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for this Saturday at 10:00 a.m. You can also experience the new Gold Line for free for the first week from Saturday, March 22 through Friday, March 28, courtesy of Ramsey and Washington counties.
