Workers conduct light rail testing on Wednesday at SouthWest Station in Eden Prairie on the Metro Green Line Extension. Photo by Stan Rolfsrud
Metro Transit began testing light rail vehicles Tuesday on the Metro Green Line Extension tracks between St. Louis Park and Eden Prairie.
The testing follows the completion of the tracks earlier this month, according to Metro Transit. This phase focuses on the western segment of the 14.5-mile extension, which will eventually connect SouthWest Station in Eden Prairie to Target Field Station in downtown Minneapolis. Testing on the Minneapolis portion is expected to begin in 2026.
The test trains departed early Tuesday from Target Field Station in Minneapolis and were pulled by a railcar mover. During testing, the trains move slowly to verify that the tracks are ready for future service on the Metro Green Line Extension, scheduled to open in 2027.
A Metro Transit light rail vehicle arrives at SouthWest Station in Eden Prairie on Wednesday during testing of the Metro Green Line Extension. Photo by Stan Rolfsrud
Metro Transit said in a statement that community members are welcome to safely observe the trains from publicly accessible places. The vehicles can move in either direction and use both tracks during testing.
Lesley Kandaras, Metro Transit general manager, said that pedestrians, cyclists and drivers should stay aware of the trains during testing.
“We are excited for this next phase of testing, which is an important milestone as we work toward the Green Line Extension’s 2027 opening,” Kandaras said. “At the same time, it is important that we raise awareness that trains are moving in areas that have not previously been served by light rail. The safety of everyone, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists, is paramount, and we ask that people practice safe behaviors as this testing gets underway.”