Major Milestone: Metro Transit Begins Testing Trains on METRO Green Line Extension

Major Milestone: Metro Transit Begins Testing Trains on METRO Green Line Extension

MINNEAPOLIS/EDEN PRAIRIE, MN — Metro Transit has entered a pivotal new phase in the long-awaited METRO Green Line Extension, officially launching train testing along portions of the newly completed light-rail corridor. The first test runs began on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the $2.86 billion project as it moves closer to its anticipated 2027 opening.

Testing Underway on the Southwest Corridor

The METRO Green Line Extension — also known as the Southwest Light Rail Transit (SWLRT) project — will add approximately 14.5 miles of new track, expanding light rail service from downtown Minneapolis through St. Louis Park, Hopkins, and Minnetonka to SouthWest Station in Eden Prairie. Construction, which began in 2019, is now roughly 85 percent complete.

Testing is being conducted in phases, beginning with the westernmost segment between St. Louis Park and Eden Prairie. Future phases will include testing along the Minneapolis section of the route, expected to start in 2026.

Initial testing involves towing up to six light-rail vehicles (LRVs) from Target Field Station to SouthWest Station at speeds no greater than 5 miles per hour. The trains are moved by a specialized rail-car mover while equipped with “feeler” sensors designed to measure track clearance and ensure precise alignment along the corridor.

In total, more than 4,000 tests are planned over the next two years to verify the performance of mechanical, electrical, and communications systems — including traction power, track switches, signals, and grade-crossing warning equipment. These system checks are essential for certifying the line’s readiness before passenger operations begin.

Safety Campaign Launched as Tracks Go Live

With trains now active on portions of the extension, Metro Transit and the Metropolitan Council have launched a robust safety campaign urging residents to exercise caution near the tracks.

Officials stress that the corridor should now be considered “live at all times.” Bells, flashing lights, and gate arms will activate at 15 roadway crossings between Eden Prairie and Minneapolis as test trains operate in either direction and on either track.

“We’re asking everyone to stay alert, obey all warning signals, and treat every track as active,” said project staff in a public advisory. “This is an exciting milestone, but safety remains our top priority.”

Looking Ahead to Passenger Service

Despite construction delays and rising costs since its inception, the Green Line Extension remains one of the most ambitious transit projects in Minnesota’s history. Once completed, it will offer a seamless, one-seat ride from Eden Prairie to downtown St. Paul, connecting communities across the Twin Cities region and improving access to jobs, education, and local destinations.

Metro Transit expects testing to continue through 2026, with operator training, signal integration, and full systems certification preceding the start of passenger service in 2027.

MinneapoliMedia