October 25, 2024 – ROCHESTER, Minn — In a significant boost to Rochester’s largest public infrastructure project, the Link Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), the city was presented today with an $84.92 million federal grant from the Federal Transportation Administration (FTA). The funds will support the $143.4 million project, which aims to transform downtown mobility, promote economic growth, and improve community connectivity.
The milestone event, held at the Mayo Civic Center Plaza, featured a check presentation by the FTA. The event brought together U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, Rochester Mayor Kim Norton, Patrick Seeb, Executive Director of the Destination Medical Center (DMC), and Doug Holton, Chair of Facilities at the Mayo Clinic. They highlighted the transformative impact the Link BRT will have on Rochester, stressing its vital role in driving economic growth, enhancing downtown mobility, and strengthening community connections.
“It was great to be in Rochester for this exciting milestone in the Link Bus Rapid Transit Project,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “Rochester is one of the fastest-growing cities in our state and deserves a state-of-the-art transit system. I worked to secure significant federal funding for this project because we know investments in infrastructure are investments in our long-term economic well-being.”
“Each day, transit systems connect Minnesotans to their jobs, schools, childcare and countless other opportunities – all while reducing traffic congestion and pollution,” said Senator Tina Smith. “This new Bus Rapid Transit line will help connect people across Rochester with a fast, free way to get around the city. I’m thrilled to announce this project is on its way to serving Minnesotans. I worked hard to deliver the federal funding needed for this project and look forward to when the Link BRT is up and running.”
The Link BRT, a high-capacity public transportation project, is designed to offer faster, more reliable transit service by utilizing dedicated lanes, signal priority, and specialized stations. The project will connect critical areas of downtown Rochester, including the Mayo Clinic Campus, Downtown Waterfront, Rochester Public Library, recreational amenities, educational institutions and key businesses along a 2.8-mile route on 2nd Street SW. By connecting to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, the line will make it easier for patients and their families to travel to its campuses and services without having to drive.
“Link BRT is a milestone project for Rochester that will help meet the transportation needs of thousands of residents, visitors and employees every day,” said Mayor Kim Norton. “As the first project of its kind outside of the Twin Cities, we are proud of this collaborative endeavor and hope Link BRT can serve as a model of innovation for other cities moving forward.”
“As Rochester grows and changes, transportation options must evolve too,” said Patrick Seeb, Executive Director of Destination Medical Center. “The Link BRT route was strategically designed to support Rochester’s major downtown redevelopment sites, which will create even greater regional impact. This is an exciting project that will continue to elevate Rochester as a local and global destination.”
The project is expected to address the city’s growing need for efficient and reliable transit, supporting residents, visitors, and businesses as Rochester continues to grow.
The Link BRT will play a key role in enhancing Rochester’s transportation infrastructure, serving 5,900 riders daily with fast, reliable service. The project will provide a convenient option for both commuters and visitors, making it easier to navigate the downtown area. A major benefit of the Link is that all rides will be free, ensuring the system is accessible to everyone.
In addition to its free service, the Link BRT will prioritize speed and efficiency, with wait times as short as five minutes during peak hours. This will allow riders to quickly move between key downtown destinations, reducing travel time and stress for those who depend on public transit.
The system’s seven heated stations will further enhance rider comfort and accessibility, offering protection from the elements and features designed to accommodate all passengers. By providing these modern amenities, the Link aims to improve the overall transit experience for everyone.
Beyond improving individual mobility, the Link BRT is expected to have a positive impact on the city as a whole. Today, the 2nd Street SW corridor is one of the city’s most heavily traveled roads, carrying more than 21,800 vehicles and 13,000 transit riders every day, including more than 40 buses during peak hours. By reducing the number of cars on the road, it will help ease traffic congestion, lower noise levels, and decrease the demand for downtown parking, making the city more livable and sustainable for residents and visitors alike.
With construction expected to begin in March 2025, the Link BRT project will play a crucial role in Rochester’s future, supporting not only daily commuters but also visitors to the Mayo Clinic and businesses throughout the city. Service is expected to begin in 2026.
The fully electric buses will include state-of-the-art features, such as level boarding for easy access and bike racks to accommodate multimodal commuting. Stations will be designed for comfort and safety, with heating, lighting, real-time schedule information, and enhanced bicycle and pedestrian connections.
The estimated cost of the Link BRT project is $143.4 million. With contingency funding, the project budget could reach a maximum of $161.5 million.
For more information on the Link BRT project, visit Rochestermn.gov/LINK.
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About Link BRT
The Link BRT is designed to provide faster, more reliable transit services for the downtown area. It will connect major hubs such as the Mayo Clinic and the Downtown Waterfront, while supporting the city’s growing infrastructure needs. The project is funded by federal, state, and local contributions, including support from the Destination Medical Center and the Mayo Clinic.