The proposed high-speed rail line from the Twin Cities to Chicago along the “River Route” will share alignment with the Red Rock Corridor and a stop at the St Paul Union Depot.
The proposed 110 mph high-speed rail line along the upper Mississippi River is identified as a national priority route with the ability to make a single investment that simultaneously benefits high-speed, passenger, commuter, and freight rail. The Mississippi River route has been designated as the best national priority route by the Federal Rail Administration and is the only shovel-ready high-speed route that connects the Twin Cities to Chicago. Upgrades and improvements to existing rail lines will results in a reduced travel time by more than two hours between the two metropolitan areas. Ridership numbers from the Empire Builder demonstrate a great need and opportunity for a high-speed travel option along this route.
The Minnesota High-Speed Rail Commission, of which Washington County is a member, is one of the leading authoritative voices on high-speed rail in Minnesota. Comprised of local elected officials, the Commission advocates for the development of Minnesota's first high-speed rail line within the federally designated high-speed rail corridor that connects the Twin Cities to Madison, Milwaukee and Chicago. The Commission meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month at 10:00 a.m. at the Goodhue County Justice Center in Red Wing, Minnesota.
The Minnesota High Speed Rail Commission website at http://www.mnhighspeedrail.org/ is the primary source for project background information, the latest news about the corridor and announcements for upcoming meetings and events.
