Community News
Federal Grant Received for Link Bus Rapid Transit Project
Photo provided by Destination Medical Center
Map provided by the City of Rochester
In a significant boost to Rochester’s largest public infrastructure project, the Link Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), the city was presented with an $84.92 million federal grant from the Federal Transportation Administration (FTA). The funds will support the $143.4 million project, which aims to transform downtown mobility, promote economic growth, and improve community connectivity. The Link BRT, a high-capacity public transportation project, is designed to offer faster, more reliable transit service by utilizing dedicated lanes, signal priority, and specialized stations. The project will connect critical areas of downtown Rochester, including the Mayo Clinic Campus, Downtown Waterfront, Rochester Public Library, recreational amenities, educational institutions and key businesses along a 2.8- mile route on 2nd Street SW. By connecting to the world- renowned Mayo Clinic, the line will make it easier for patients and their families to travel to its campuses and services without having to drive. The project is expected to address the city’s growing need for efficient and reliable transit, supporting residents, visitors, and businesses as Rochester continues to grow. The Link BRT will play a key role in enhancing Rochester’s transportation infrastructure, serving 5,900 riders daily with fast, reliable service. The project will provide a convenient option for both commuters and visitors, making it easier to navigate the downtown area. A major benefit of the Link is that all rides will be free, ensuring the system is accessible to everyone. The FTA presented the city with an $84.92 million federal grant for the Link Bus Rapid Transit project, which is expected to address the city’s growing need for efficient and reliable transit while supporting residents, visitors, and businesses as Rochester continues to grow.
In addition to its free service, the Link BRT will prioritize speed and efficiency, with wait times as short as five minutes during peak hours. This will allow riders to quickly move between key downtown destinations, reducing travel time and stress for those who depend on public transit. With construction expected to begin in March 2025, the Link BRT project will play a crucial role in Rochester’s future, supporting not only daily commuters but also visitors to the Mayo Clinic and businesses throughout the city. Service is expected to begin in 2026. The estimated cost of the Link BRT project is $143.4 million. With contingency funding, the project budget could reach a maximum of $161.5 million.
For more information on the Link BRT project, visit Rochestermn.gov/LINK.
32 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — DECEMBER 2024
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