SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, the Minnesota House approved the 2023 Transportation Budget Bill. The legislation represents the strongest package of investments in roads, bridges, and transit systems across the state in a generation, including funding for the Northern Lights Express (NLX), a new passenger rail line from the Twin Cities to Duluth.
“Our transportation system has been underfunded for many years, resulting in crumbling roads, failing bridges, and transit service that doesn’t meet the needs of Minnesotans. I’m incredibly proud of the funding House DFLers are putting forth in a stronger, more sustainable transportation system, including NLX rail, which will help transform Duluth as a destination,” said Rep. Liz Olson (DFL - Duluth). “This budget will help ensure reliable and safe roads, bridges, and transit options for all Minnesotans now and into the future while tackling our climate crisis and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
“NLX will be a valuable tool for Minnesotans to visit family and friends, commute to work, access healthcare, travel to and from school, numerous tourism opportunities, enjoy natural resources and recreation, and beyond,” said Rep. Alicia Kozlowski (DFL - Duluth). “We’re thrilled and ready for NLX to advance climate justice, improve connectivity, support jobs, job growth, generate tax revenue, promote development around the stations and the corridor, and expand transportation equity.”
The NLX will connect Duluth and Minneapolis, operating on 152 miles of existing BNSF Railway track. It will feature four round trips per day, reaching maximum speeds of 90 mph with a travel time of about 2.5 hours. The anticipated funding split is 20% from the state and 80% federal. NLX will offer an increased choice in transportation options benefitting Minnesotans who travel for tourism, work, or education, while connecting to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport and the Midwest rail network.
Additionally, over the next two years, the bill invests more than $1.1 billion in state funding toward fixing our roads and bridges, with more than $1 billion to improve transit systems statewide. It also leverages billions of dollars in federal funds committed to slowing the effects of climate change. Transportation is the number one source of greenhouse gas emissions. To curb these emissions, the bill delivers bold investments in public transit, electric vehicles, intercity passenger rail, funding for nonmotorized transportation options and emissions impact assessments.
The budget also contains important changes to improve efficiencies in Minnesota’s Driver and Vehicle Services to provide better customer experiences including exam site maintenance, support for deputy registrars, and expanded remote renewal options.
A fact sheet about the legislation can be viewed here. The bill now goes to the Minnesota Senate for its consideration.