St. Paul Advances Transit, Freeway Construction and Tenant Protections

St Paul is heading into April with several high-impact transportation and housing decisions now taking shape across the city.

Green Line Extension Nears Next Phase

Regional transit leaders continue preparing for the Green Line extension, a multibillion-dollar project that will eventually connect downtown St Paul to Eden Prairie. The line is scheduled to open in 2027, years later than originally projected, and remains the most expensive public works project in Minnesota history.

While ridership across the light-rail system has not fully returned to pre-pandemic levels, officials say the expansion is central to long-term regional growth and economic development. The extension is expected to influence housing, commercial development and commuting patterns throughout the metro.

I-35E Construction Set to Begin

MnDOT’s 2026 construction season also includes a major St Paul project: replacement of aging concrete pavement on Interstate 35E between Shepard Road and West 7th Street. Crews will also replace a bridge over Shepard Road, repair the Mississippi River bridge and update traffic signals.

The work is scheduled to begin this month and continue into 2027. Drivers should expect lane closures and shifting traffic patterns as the city enters another busy infrastructure season.

City Council Expands Tenant Notice Requirement

In housing policy, the St Paul City Council last week approved a temporary 60-day eviction notice requirement for landlords, doubling the current 30-day standard. The measure is set to remain in effect through the end of the year.

Supporters say the extended timeline gives renters more stability and time to secure assistance or alternative housing. Some affordable housing providers have expressed concern about operational impacts, signaling continued debate ahead.

Spring Signals a Policy-Heavy Year

Between large-scale transit investments, freeway reconstruction and evolving tenant protections, St Paul is balancing infrastructure modernization with housing stability. City leaders face the ongoing challenge of funding improvements while maintaining affordability and economic momentum.

Sources

https://www.startribune.com/metro-transit-southwest-green-line-light-rail/601597185
https://www.dot.state.mn.us/construction/2026/metro.html
https://www.reddit.com/r/saintpaul/comments/1s47fzt/st_paul_city_council_approves_60day_eviction/