New Metro Transit Route 345 Launches, Cuts Commute Time by 30 Minutes

URGENT UPDATE: A new Metro Transit bus route, Route 345, launched on October 15, 2023, connecting riders from Washington and Dakota counties directly to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and the Mall of America. This significant transit expansion aims to provide faster and more reliable service for the southeast metro area.

Officials confirm that Route 345 will restore service to the Newport Transit Station and offers connections to the Gold Line, Blue Line, and Red Line. Buses will operate every hour from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, drastically reducing travel time between Woodbury and the Mall of America by nearly 30 minutes.

Metro Transit Senior Service Planner Steve Baisden stated, “Previously, the trip from Woodbury to the Mall of America took about an hour and a half. With Route 345, that time is cut almost in half.” This improvement is part of the Network Now initiative by the Metropolitan Council to enhance regional transit following pandemic impacts.

Karla Bigham, Washington County District 4 Commissioner, emphasized the importance of this route for the community, noting, “It’s a big day for the east metro to be able to have this expansion of transit.” The route not only improves access to vital locations but also addresses the public transportation gaps previously faced by residents of Washington County.

In addition to Route 345, Metro Transit has introduced two more routes, 725 and 837, funded by the council’s Regional Transportation Sales and Use Tax. These routes aim to enhance regional accessibility, especially along the Highway 62 and I-494 corridor.

The new Route 345 will benefit those without vehicles or in single-car households, offering essential connections to jobs and services. With stops at key locations like the Woodlane Station in Woodbury, which serves other routes, the Newport Transit Station, and the 30th Avenue Station in Bloomington, this route is set to transform transit access in the area.

Baisden noted that the route’s design was influenced by comprehensive transit and ridership data and community feedback, addressing the pressing need for east-west transportation options. “This is a route that’s providing new connections that were not possible prior to the pandemic,” he explained.

Looking ahead, Route 345 is expected to further integrate with future transit developments, including a connection to the G Line along South Robert Street, anticipated to open in 2028. The route strategically positions the southeast metro area for increased transit accessibility and improved commuter experience.

For detailed bus maps and schedules, visit metrotransit.org. The launch of Route 345 marks a pivotal moment for the region, promising to enhance connectivity and support community growth as transit needs evolve.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the impact of these changes on local commuters.