The Rush Line Policy Advisory Committee approved 7th Street and Washington Avenue as the location of the downtown White Bear Lake station at their Feb. 28 meeting. The action follows the endorsement of the site by the White Bear Lake City Council earlier in the week.

"After many months of thoughtful conversation with our community members, we are pleased to have selected a very promising site for the northernmost Rush Line station," said Policy Advisory Committee Chair and White Bear Lake Mayor Jo Emerson. "This site is close to our historic downtown, adjacent to existing senior housing, and well-positioned to serve future growth in our city".

A 120' diagonal bus platform is planned for the southwest corner of the parcel, located on the western side of Highway 61. It will provide a single platform for both departures and arrivals. Buses will enter the station from 7th Street, turning on Washington Avenue and 8th Street to southbound Highway 61. Significant improvements for pedestrian access are planned for the crossing at Highway 61 and 7th Street.  

"Throughout this process, I have talked about the importance of getting this right. It’s a big decision for the future of White Bear Lake," said Policy Advisory Committee member Victoria Reinhardt, "As a Ramsey County commissioner and White Bear Lake resident, I truly believe this will prove to be the best option over the long term to provide high-quality transit access to the local community."

This site is now included in the Environmental Analysis project phase in which the project team will study it in greater detail. The team will also work closely with stakeholders and city staff to determine how to maximize site use for both transit and business needs.    

Contact 
John Siqveland, Director of Communications and Public Relations, 651-746-9250.