UPDATE: A new Metro Transit bus route, Route 345, officially launched this morning, connecting riders from Washington and Dakota County directly to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and the Mall of America. The service, which aims to provide faster and more reliable transit options, comes as a significant enhancement for the east metro community.
Service began on Sunday, with buses operating daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.. The new route is set to cut travel time between Woodbury and the Mall of America by nearly 30 minutes, improving access for countless residents. “This is a route that’s providing new connections that were not possible prior to the pandemic,” stated Steve Baisden, Metro Transit senior service planner.
Previously, commuters traveling from Woodbury to the Mall faced a lengthy journey of approximately 90 minutes. Now, Route 345 allows for a streamlined trip, significantly benefiting those who rely on public transportation. “Now, with Route 345, that travel time is cut almost in half,” Baisden added.
The launch of Route 345 is part of the Network Now initiative by the Metropolitan Council, designed to enhance the regional transit network in response to evolving ridership needs. In addition to Route 345, two more routes—725 and 837—have also been introduced, funded by the council’s Regional Transportation Sales and Use Tax.
Karla Bigham, Washington County District 4 Commissioner, expressed the importance of this expansion. “It’s a big day for the community,” she emphasized, highlighting the significance of restoring service at the Newport Transit Station. Bigham noted that this new connection is vital for residents without access to a vehicle or those in single-car households.
Route 345 connects seamlessly to other lines, including the Gold Line, Blue Line, and Red Line, enhancing overall accessibility in the region. Notably, this route also reinstates service at the Newport Transit Station, which had been closed since the pandemic, with expectations of increased ridership.
“It allows people to have access to our communities, and I think it’s a long time coming,” Bigham stated. This route not only facilitates travel to major destinations but also supports local economies by connecting residents to jobs and services in the area.
Looking ahead, Route 345 is expected to link with the G Line along South Robert Street, which is projected to open in 2028. Currently, it features three Park & Ride lots located at Woodlane Station in Woodbury, the Newport Transit Center, and 30th Avenue Station in Bloomington.
For more details on Route 345’s schedule and map, visit metrotransit.org. This route is a crucial step towards revitalizing transit options and improving connectivity in the southeast metro area, making it a development to watch closely as community needs continue to evolve.