Five Stars for Going in the Right Direction: A Review of Metro Transit…read more Metro Transit, the public transportation system serving the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, deserves a solid five-star rating--not just for reliability and reach, but for its meaningful progress over the years. As someone who began riding the bus regularly in middle school, I've had a front-row seat to the evolution of this system, and I can confidently say it's heading in the right direction. When I first started using Metro Transit, the experience was undeniably hit-or-miss. While the routes were functional, issues like infrequent service, aging buses, and occasional safety concerns made it more of a necessity than a comfort. Over the years, however, I've watched the system mature into something far more dependable, user-friendly, and community-oriented. One of the most noticeable improvements since the post-pandemic recovery has been the enhanced sense of safety. In the past, riding during off-peak hours could feel risky--altercations, loitering, or suspicious activity weren't uncommon. But recently, that's changed dramatically. There's now a consistent police and transit security presence, and it's become routine to see uniformed officers on buses, at stops, and in transit centers. This isn't about over-policing; it's about creating a safer environment for riders of all backgrounds. The visible security presence acts as both a deterrent and a reassurance, making the experience more comfortable, especially for vulnerable populations like students, seniors, and late-night commuters. Beyond safety, Metro Transit stands out for its impressive coverage. Unlike many regional systems that primarily serve downtown cores, Metro Transit extends its reach deep into the suburbs. Whether you're commuting from Apple Valley, Eagan, Plymouth, or even farther out, there are reliable bus routes--or bus rapid transit options like the METRO lines--that connect seamlessly to downtown Minneapolis or Saint Paul. This kind of accessibility is rare in American public transit and reflects a genuine commitment to inclusivity and regional integration. The fleet itself has modernized, too. With newer, low-emission buses, better real-time tracking via apps, and expanded routes like the METRO Orange and planned Gold Lines, the system feels increasingly forward-thinking. Fare payment methods have also improved, with the option to use mobile apps or contactless cards--small but meaningful upgrades that streamline the rider experience. Of course, there's always room for growth--increased frequency during off-peak hours, expanded weekend service, and further integration with surrounding suburbs would make the system even stronger. But compared to many other U.S. cities, Metro Transit is ahead of the curve. In conclusion, Metro Transit has transformed from a basic necessity into a model of what regional public transportation can and should be. It's safe, expansive, evolving, and increasingly reliable. For a system that serves such a diverse and geographically spread population, it's an achievement worth recognizing. Five stars well earned--for going in the right direction, and for getting more of us there safely and efficiently.

I pray for those who rely on Metro transit to get to where they need to be. I am thankful enough to…read morebe able to drive after almost 3 years relying on public transit. I can write a book on the things I saw and experienced riding the light rail and buses. Starting with the light rail, the trains are usually crowded and stuffed. There could be a smell of urine, weed, or BO. They dont clean these trains. The security is a joke. Fights and other commotion is a daily occurence on the light rail. Especially the green line. The buses is no different. Especially that C or D line. Shady homeless people at the bus or train stations who will harass u maybe even assault you. Those trains are portable homeless shelters. Ive seen women get harassed on these buses and trains. Bus drivers be having an attitude. Sometimes the buses dont even come on schedule and arrive late. You gambling with your job relying on these buses. Minnesota has the worst transit system in the country. Be careful if you rely on public transit in this state

An affordable means to get to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) if you are staying…read moreat one of the hotels in Downtown Minneapolis. It costs only $2!

Many years it took to get light rail in the cities. I was always jealous of other metropolitan…read moreareas with their sleek commuter trains and platforms. Some were classic even though run down. Metro transit does a decent job trying to keep the areas clean, considering the amount of litter gathering in a day. The system is efficient on their timing and I appreciated the efforts to make the cars more secure and safe. The train rides were a nice experience until about 2020 when things started to change. That year walking back to a seat some young show-off tried to block my way as his friends laughed. All I could do was walk right past even letting our shoulders bump, yes we have to show no fear sometimes. Another time a passenger screamed at me for no apparent reason saying he didn't want me walking past him. I've seen cars with litter, people smoking and sleeping on folded down seats. Jump to 2022 and problems seem more cleared up with more transit police kicking people off and the system scrubbing urine stains off the floor. There used to be soft cloth seats which had to be replaced with cheap hard sitting plastic.

Serving as the main light rail stop during our multi-day stay in downtown Minneapolis, the…read moreGovernment Plaza Light Rail Station is the closest to the courthouse and city hall area of downtown. Both light rail lines (Blue and Green) stops here, though there is an earlier stop (US Bank Stadium stop) that could be easily used for transfer. Cost is $2 for a 2.5 hour ticket, and this station has self-serve ticket kiosks to purchase Go-To tap cards. None of the stops have gates, instead having tap stations nearby the entrances to indicate payment. We used this station to come/go to the airport and used it to take the Green line to go to St Paul as well. Most people will get off on the north platform (coming from St Paul or the Airport) and wait to board the train from the South Platform ( going either South or East). The train consistently ran every 10 minutes, and the digital display accurately showed which train and arrival times.

Light rail station in downtown, Government Plaza is on Fifth Street between Third and Fourth…read moreAvenue. The platform is slightly elevated, but not excessively so. It is not an "island" platform, meaning that the train doors open on the right side rather than the left to a center platform. There are ticket vending machines available. Minneapolis Light Rail is a proof of purchase system - you must have a valid ticket available to present to a ticket inspector. Unlike nearby stations, auto traffic is not permitted through this section of Fifth Street.

TJ is great at communicating, on-time and got us home safely. We fell into easy conversation the…read moreentire ride home. He was just like a friend picking us up at the airport! Highly recommend!

Had TJs bring us to and from the airport from our home in Maple Grove and couldn't be happier. They…read moreshowed up on time picking up at our home and helped load the bags and got us to the airport with plenty of time to make our flight. The pickup from our flight at return was effortless as well. They knew our flight number and texted us when the plane landed. There was a delay with the plane coming into the gate but we eventually got off, got our bags, and met the driver who described their vehicle making pick up easy. Excellent service and polite staff. We'll use them again.

The US Bank Stadium Station is the first light rail station going West that serves both the Blue…read moreand Green lines. Thus in this way, one can get to the football stadium from both Mall of America/Airport AND St Paul. It has an elevated walkway to allow crossing of the street, but it is closed during non-game days.

I take light rail and trains wherever I go but I was quite grossed out with the US Bank Station…read more I'm surprised a bank would put their name on this. I thought I was doing the right thing by taking the metro to the airport but I don't think I'll do that again. The station needs a daily power wash to remove all the public urination spots. Even on a cold November day it was still rancid. it's too bad as the trains are in great condition and ride well. The windows are tall and clean making for nice views through town. The seats were all immaculate in the train. On the Blue line quite a few airport employees seemed to recognize each other and exchanged pleasantries which helped distract from the fare evaders, solicitors and people who just wanted to stop the doors from closing. There is no way I would suggest anyone to wait at this station ever. On a positive note the trains are on time.

Hey. Sunday night call for one of your taxis from Best Western The Normandy downtown. We just…read morefinished watching the Vikings game. We wanted a taxi to do our for supper and drinks. Drove us from 8th to 3rd Street . No meter on. Vulgar cab driver. Get there in ten minutes. He looks at at us and says Three no four people. 40.00 !!! My brother in law pays but come on !!! What kind of service was that ? Terrible taxi service. We were robbed by your company.

I had reserved a pickup from Lyft and they never showed up. I had an important medical appointment…read morefor a disabled adult. I called Red and White and the cab had shown up in less then 15 minutes. There were no buses running to the medical appointment it was so far out. I had called for a return trip and again the driver had shown up in less than 15 minutes. I am switching back to Red and White and not using Lyft anymore!

Seyfu my driver delivered WORLD CLASS bell ringing service today!…read moreI Needed ride to the airport with a stop to drop off our dog for boarding. Forgot the dog food my wife packed. Seyfu- picked up dog food & delivered it to the board in facility!! Amazing!!

ReliaCar was wonderful! If you want worry-free service to and from the MSP airport, ReliaCar is the…read morebest choice. I had to be at the airport by 4 am. My driver was waiting for me at agreed upon time. My return flight was delayed and it was helpful to communicate with my driver by text. Upon my return it was so nice to see driver waiting for me. I highly recommend.

I canceled an Uber for a 5 minute ride for this company when the driver advised to "hop in". The…read morevan contained 3 different groups all traveling to the same city. The driver never specified a charge. Upon drop off the driver stated "where's my $20!?" I gave the driver $20 and the driver and fellow passengers began yelling obscenities out of the window, including "next time you're in Prescott expect to wait several minutes". This is a truly unprofessional company, avoid at all costs!!!!

From the owner: Safe Ride Twin Cities LLC provides specialized transportation for clients with disabilities, the…read moreelderly, and their families. Caring, friendly, and DHS approved drivers so we can meet the special needs of our clients. Anyone with MA can get transportation without paying out of pocket. We can bill other insurance companies with a waiver. We provide rides to all clients who do not need ramps and stretchers to get to their appointments. We accept all major credit cards along with other payment options like Paypal for clients that don't have insurance coverage. Patients with mobility-limitations and employing mobility devices to get to their destinations in a sitting or supine position. Wheelchair accessible vans are available 24/7 even on holidays. Our most recent addition to the company has been to provide shuttles to and from grocery stores, shopping, and entertainment. We work with other companies to meet the demand for transportation in groups - saving the customers money and allowing them to run errands together.

Turn off , got to the terminal an hour before my bus ride , and I got off my car sharing taxi app…read more I waited an hour to board my bus so my gloves that I had more than five years where on the table , as soon it was time for me to board the bus I notice my right hand leather gloves was missing out my jacket was missing , thank god the bus didn't leave the station yet , I trace my footsteps in the terminal , you know it disappear like Casper the freindily ghost those was my favorite leather gloves , I cried when I realized I lost those right hand side leather gloves . I feel like it was ackward I see something and next minute I lose a pair in instance . The terminal must have bad omen vibes !( I asked the security guard he told me no , I asked the lady who was mopping the floor , she told me no , very akward station, The Bus driver he was Asian decent his English wasn't strong enough to ask him questions ( I'm just really depressed about the whole situation the worst Earthstrong trip ever ) !

No customer service, my husband is still stuck in Minneapolis for two weeks and counting. They…read morekeep cancelling his ticket and refunding 10% of the ticket. Then we buy another ticket and hotel and food costs. At 2000.00 for a 300.00 bus ride. Just today when he went in to get a physical ticket the lady printed it for the wrong day instead of the one that is leaving in a hour and did it for Thursday. When he told her she just smirked. If he dies while in the -13 weather and we are out of money now. I will own Grey Hound. He only takes it because he hates to fly.

Yes, I am Yelping a bridge! And a beautiful one at that; the Merriam St. Bridge has the great honor…read moreof crossing the mighty & historical Mississippi River. Where I come from, there is a handful (one hand) of awesome bridges and not many gushing rivers for them to cross. So, I kind of got excited to walk across this one and admire it's delicate yet strong construction. The Minnesota DOT said "The Merriam Bridge is a three-span, steel-girder bridge that carries Merriam Street across the east channel of the Mississippi River between Nicollet Island and the bank of the river in Minneapolis. The bridge incorporates one of the original Pratt through truss spans from the Broadway Bridge, which was demolished and replaced in 1987." However, now the truss is purely decorative: the Merriam Bridge is supported by a beam from underneath. Merriam Bridge was originally built by King Iron Bridge Company in 1887 as one of the four spans of the very fancy Broadway Avenue Bridge. When the Broadway Avenue Bridge was reconstructed in 1987, one span was preserved and moved to Nicollet Island. This opened up Nicollet Island and it's park lands, Pavilion and charming Nicollet Island Inn to greater usage and served as a connector to new Saint Anthony Main business and retail developments on the east bank. Thus, this pretty bridge served a great purpose and important role in the development of North Minneapolis. Merriam St. Bridge "contains substantial ornamentation including finials, portal cresting, and hexagonal cast iron builder plaques embossed with the date and designer of the bridge featured on each end. All these things were typical of 19th century urban bridges of that era. Few examples of these sorts of bridges remain today so "despite alteration, this span remains significant as a rare physical remnant of a 19th century urban metal truss bridge,"said a historic bridges website. As if further gilding of this lily was even necessary, nearby the Merriam Street Bridge, there was a large row of bountiful lilac trees in spectacular spring bloom on the Nicollet Island side in mid-May when I visited. How totally vintage it was to smell the old-fashioned lilacs while getting ready to cross this gorgeous old-fashioned bridge! 5 YELP STARS!