102-492: The Metro Purple Line , formerly known as the Rush Line Corridor , is a proposed bus rapid transit service that would run from Union Depot in downtown Saint Paul to the northeastern suburbs of Saint Paul. Along the corridor's 21 proposed stations there are 106,000 jobs within a 10-minute walk. The project is currently in an environmental analysis phase with further development, engineering, and construction expected to take at least six more years. Service would run 7-days
204-681: A Hiawatha train from Milwaukee to St. Paul as the Borealis , providing additional daily service between Union Depot and Chicago. The Borealis is the successor to the North Star and the Twin Cities Hiawatha . A further extension to Minneapolis Target Field Station and St. Cloud has been proposed. New trains running at speeds above 100 miles per hour (160 km/h) to Chicago have also been discussed since at least 1991. The Midwest Regional Rail Initiative (MWRRI), led by
306-500: A Hiawatha train from Milwaukee to St. Paul as the Borealis , providing additional daily service between Union Depot and Chicago. The Borealis is the successor to the North Star and the Twin Cities Hiawatha . A further extension to Minneapolis Target Field Station and St. Cloud has been proposed. New trains running at speeds above 100 miles per hour (160 km/h) to Chicago have also been discussed since at least 1991. The Midwest Regional Rail Initiative (MWRRI), led by
408-511: A Hertz rental car location, coffee shop, restaurant, a bike shop, offices, a museum, and loft condominiums. There have been two Union Depots in Saint Paul. The first was completed in 1881, and combined the services of several different railroads into one building (hence the "union"; see Union station ). In 1888 the old station had its peak year, handling eight million passengers. That year, about 150 trains departed daily. Around this time,
510-452: A Hertz rental car location, coffee shop, restaurant, a bike shop, offices, a museum, and loft condominiums. There have been two Union Depots in Saint Paul. The first was completed in 1881, and combined the services of several different railroads into one building (hence the "union"; see Union station ). In 1888 the old station had its peak year, handling eight million passengers. That year, about 150 trains departed daily. Around this time,
612-767: A BRT service and eventually being upgraded to commuter rail, however plans are on hold as ridership on the current bus routes in this corridor are low. The Riverview Corridor is planned to be a LRT/modern streetcar hybrid operating between St. Paul Union Depot and Mall of America. Riverview Corridor trains would share tracks and stations with the Metro Green Line between Central Station and Union Depot Station. Numerous existing freight rail lines branch out from St. Paul Union Depot and could be upgraded and utilized by regional passenger trains. Currently MnDOT has studied regional rail from St. Paul Union Depot to Mankato , Northfield , and Minneapolis (continuing further west as
714-700: A BRT service and eventually being upgraded to commuter rail, however plans are on hold as ridership on the current bus routes in this corridor are low. The Riverview Corridor is planned to be a LRT/modern streetcar hybrid operating between St. Paul Union Depot and Mall of America. Riverview Corridor trains would share tracks and stations with the Metro Green Line between Central Station and Union Depot Station. Numerous existing freight rail lines branch out from St. Paul Union Depot and could be upgraded and utilized by regional passenger trains. Currently MnDOT has studied regional rail from St. Paul Union Depot to Mankato , Northfield , and Minneapolis (continuing further west as
816-556: A cost of $ 243 million, of which $ 35 million was provided by the US government through the TIGER program. The renovated station re-opened to the public on December 8, 2012. The first Amtrak train to service Saint Paul Union Depot was the westbound Empire Builder on May 7, 2014, with its eastbound counterpart stopping the next day. Borealis service began on May 21, 2024, with St. Paul as its western terminus. Since opening in late 2012,
918-457: A cost of $ 243 million, of which $ 35 million was provided by the US government through the TIGER program. The renovated station re-opened to the public on December 8, 2012. The first Amtrak train to service Saint Paul Union Depot was the westbound Empire Builder on May 7, 2014, with its eastbound counterpart stopping the next day. Borealis service began on May 21, 2024, with St. Paul as its western terminus. Since opening in late 2012,
1020-463: A longer timeline in studying transit options in the corridor. A new alignment had been expected in early 2023. Saint Paul Union Depot Saint Paul Union Depot is a historic railroad station and intermodal transit hub in the Lowertown neighborhood of Saint Paul , Minnesota . It serves light rail, intercity rail, intercity bus, and local bus services. It is the eastern terminus for
1122-610: A platform under the waiting room. The line opened on June 14, 2014. Utility relocation work in preparation for the Green Line began in front of the depot on 4th Street in August 2009, well before the line received final funding or approval. Track was laid from 2011 to 2012. While the Union Depot is the eastern terminus of service, the tracks continue beyond the station to the line's maintenance facility. The current vision for
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#17327933662551224-438: A platform under the waiting room. The line opened on June 14, 2014. Utility relocation work in preparation for the Green Line began in front of the depot on 4th Street in August 2009, well before the line received final funding or approval. Track was laid from 2011 to 2012. While the Union Depot is the eastern terminus of service, the tracks continue beyond the station to the line's maintenance facility. The current vision for
1326-595: A second set of trains daily in 1936, running the Morning Zephyr and Afternoon Zephyr from each terminal. The Hiawatha added a second set of trains in 1939, and the Morning Hiawatha and Afternoon Hiawatha each provided daily service from Minneapolis-St. Paul and Chicago. The Morning Hiawatha may have held the record as the world's fastest steam train on two or more measures: The 78.3 miles (126.0 km) run from Sparta to Portage, Wisconsin
1428-466: A second set of trains daily in 1936, running the Morning Zephyr and Afternoon Zephyr from each terminal. The Hiawatha added a second set of trains in 1939, and the Morning Hiawatha and Afternoon Hiawatha each provided daily service from Minneapolis-St. Paul and Chicago. The Morning Hiawatha may have held the record as the world's fastest steam train on two or more measures: The 78.3 miles (126.0 km) run from Sparta to Portage, Wisconsin
1530-439: A spokesman for Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority, referred to the potential of the station to be "the living room of Saint Paul." The entrance to Union Depot, the headhouse , is considered a somewhat severe example of neoclassical architecture , with a robust aesthetic. A series of tall Doric columns line the front façade. The concourse and the waiting room that extends out to the platforms, where trains once rolled in,
1632-439: A spokesman for Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority, referred to the potential of the station to be "the living room of Saint Paul." The entrance to Union Depot, the headhouse , is considered a somewhat severe example of neoclassical architecture , with a robust aesthetic. A series of tall Doric columns line the front façade. The concourse and the waiting room that extends out to the platforms, where trains once rolled in,
1734-536: A through-service). In 2010, the Minnesota Department of Transportation also released a plan for regional rail stretching out from the Twin Cities to rural Minnesota and neighboring states, and at least some of the lines would run to Saint Paul. For decades, the only intercity train to serve the Twin Cities was the overnight Empire Builder . However, beginning on May 21st, 2024, Amtrak extended
1836-405: A through-service). In 2010, the Minnesota Department of Transportation also released a plan for regional rail stretching out from the Twin Cities to rural Minnesota and neighboring states, and at least some of the lines would run to Saint Paul. For decades, the only intercity train to serve the Twin Cities was the overnight Empire Builder . However, beginning on May 21st, 2024, Amtrak extended
1938-629: A week with 10-minute headways in peak periods and 15-minute service at most other times. The corridor was named the Rush Line because it was originally planned to end in Rush City, Minnesota . After using the color purple since 2017, the route was officially named the Purple Line and became part of the Metro network on July 14, 2021. At one point the project was proposed to be commuter rail all
2040-731: Is a historic railroad station and intermodal transit hub in the Lowertown neighborhood of Saint Paul , Minnesota . It serves light rail, intercity rail, intercity bus, and local bus services. It is the eastern terminus for the METRO Green Line light rail line, with the stop located outside the station's headhouse . It is also the Twin Cities ' stop for Amtrak , the national intercity railroad service. In addition to rail, Union Depot also serves Metro Transit , Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA), Jefferson Lines , Greyhound Lines , and Megabus . The headhouse, located at
2142-592: Is an Amtrak Thruway to Duluth via Jefferson Lines. The station appears as St. Paul-Minneapolis in Amtrak timetables. The depot serves as the Metro Green Line light rail line's eastern terminus. The Green Line runs between St. Paul and Minneapolis with its western terminus at Target Field station in the North Loop area of Downtown Minneapolis . The stop is in front of the headhouse, rather than at
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#17327933662552244-415: Is an Amtrak Thruway to Duluth via Jefferson Lines. The station appears as St. Paul-Minneapolis in Amtrak timetables. The depot serves as the Metro Green Line light rail line's eastern terminus. The Green Line runs between St. Paul and Minneapolis with its western terminus at Target Field station in the North Loop area of Downtown Minneapolis . The stop is in front of the headhouse, rather than at
2346-555: Is considered to be one of the great architectural achievements in the city. Charles Frost designed the station. The waiting room is flooded with natural light from skylights. These skylights were blackened during the Second World War , but restored for the 2012 re-opening. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Saint Paul Union Depot Saint Paul Union Depot
2448-684: Is expected at 200 persons a day. The Rush Line Task Force and the Metropolitan Council are looking for access to county and federal funds to cover capital costs. A preliminary study was released in September 2015 by the Rush Line Task Force narrowing down the options to 4 types of vehicles and routes that will be considered for the project. The options include: A second phase of the study will be completed during Winter 2015 and Spring 2016 timeframe, according to page 5 of
2550-692: The William Crooks , was displayed at the depot from 1955 until the station's 1971 closure, after which it was moved to the Lake Superior Railroad Museum in Duluth . On January 2, 1935, high-speed express service to Chicago was introduced on the Chicago and North Western Railway 's 400 , cutting the scheduled time between the two cities from about 10 hours down to 7. Time dubbed the 400 , "the fastest train scheduled on
2652-441: The William Crooks , was displayed at the depot from 1955 until the station's 1971 closure, after which it was moved to the Lake Superior Railroad Museum in Duluth . On January 2, 1935, high-speed express service to Chicago was introduced on the Chicago and North Western Railway 's 400 , cutting the scheduled time between the two cities from about 10 hours down to 7. Time dubbed the 400 , "the fastest train scheduled on
2754-611: The Great Northern Railroad and whose nickname was "The Empire Builder", and provides service west to Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon and southeast to Chicago . St. Paul is also the western terminus of the Borealis , an extended Hiawatha train that supplements the Empire Builder between Chicago and St. Paul. The Empire Builder originally stopped at the station from 1929 until 1971. In 1971, Amtrak consolidated all passenger rail service for
2856-473: The Great Northern Railroad and whose nickname was "The Empire Builder", and provides service west to Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon and southeast to Chicago . St. Paul is also the western terminus of the Borealis , an extended Hiawatha train that supplements the Empire Builder between Chicago and St. Paul. The Empire Builder originally stopped at the station from 1929 until 1971. In 1971, Amtrak consolidated all passenger rail service for
2958-399: The METRO Green Line light rail line, with the stop located outside the station's headhouse . It is also the Twin Cities ' stop for Amtrak , the national intercity railroad service. In addition to rail, Union Depot also serves Metro Transit , Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA), Jefferson Lines , Greyhound Lines , and Megabus . The headhouse, located at the 4th Street entrance,
3060-572: The United States Postal Service (USPS) took over the rear of the building. The concourse and waiting room were used for some postal service activities and storage. After lying dormant for several years in the 1970s, the train tracks were removed from the train deck and it was paved with a flat surface. It began to be used for staging semi-trailer trucks carrying mail to and from the neighboring Downtown St. Paul Central Post Office as well as USPS employee parking. A driveway ramp
3162-490: The United States Postal Service (USPS) took over the rear of the building. The concourse and waiting room were used for some postal service activities and storage. After lying dormant for several years in the 1970s, the train tracks were removed from the train deck and it was paved with a flat surface. It began to be used for staging semi-trailer trucks carrying mail to and from the neighboring Downtown St. Paul Central Post Office as well as USPS employee parking. A driveway ramp
Metro Purple Line (Minnesota) - Misplaced Pages Continue
3264-654: The Wisconsin Department of Transportation , has proposed a link to the Twin Cities running at up to 110 mph (180 km/h). The planned schedule time to Saint Paul would be just 5½ hours. Others including the French national railway SNCF , which operates the TGV network, have proposed trains running at up to 220 miles per hour (350 km/h). Prior to the station's reopening in December 2012, Josh Collins,
3366-426: The Wisconsin Department of Transportation , has proposed a link to the Twin Cities running at up to 110 mph (180 km/h). The planned schedule time to Saint Paul would be just 5½ hours. Others including the French national railway SNCF , which operates the TGV network, have proposed trains running at up to 220 miles per hour (350 km/h). Prior to the station's reopening in December 2012, Josh Collins,
3468-559: The 261 passenger cars, Canadian Pacific and Union Pacific heritage locomotives, an Amtrak ALC-42 , a TC&W locomotive and some BNSF freight cars. In 2023, two CPKC locomotives, Milwaukee Road 261 and 32A, TC&W 2020, and GN 192 from Duluth were displayed. Train Days is planned to return in June 2024. The station is serviced by two Amtrak trains. The Empire Builder is named to honor Saint Paul-based mogul James J. Hill who constructed
3570-457: The 261 passenger cars, Canadian Pacific and Union Pacific heritage locomotives, an Amtrak ALC-42 , a TC&W locomotive and some BNSF freight cars. In 2023, two CPKC locomotives, Milwaukee Road 261 and 32A, TC&W 2020, and GN 192 from Duluth were displayed. Train Days is planned to return in June 2024. The station is serviced by two Amtrak trains. The Empire Builder is named to honor Saint Paul-based mogul James J. Hill who constructed
3672-598: The 261), Minnesota Transportation Museum , Great Northern Railway Historical Society , Twin Cities and Western Railroad , and others. In 2014 and 2015, Union Depot hosted National Train Day events with various indoor displays and platform displays from the Minnesota Transportation Museum, Amtrak, BNSF and Friends of the 261. In 2016 the depot hosted its first "Union Depot Train Days" to celebrate
3774-409: The 261), Minnesota Transportation Museum , Great Northern Railway Historical Society , Twin Cities and Western Railroad , and others. In 2014 and 2015, Union Depot hosted National Train Day events with various indoor displays and platform displays from the Minnesota Transportation Museum, Amtrak, BNSF and Friends of the 261. In 2016 the depot hosted its first "Union Depot Train Days" to celebrate
3876-522: The 261. In 2020, "Train Days" was held virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but returned in person for 2021. Because "Train Days" was held on the anniversary of "D-Day" in 2021, Union Pacific & Canadian Pacific displayed special military commemorative locomotives alongside Milwaukee Road E9 32A & Amtrak 161, specially painted for Amtrak's 50th anniversary. Train Days returned in 2022, featuring two restored SD45s from Duluth, GN 400 and NP 3617 , MILW 32A along with multiple Friends of
3978-522: The 261. In 2020, "Train Days" was held virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but returned in person for 2021. Because "Train Days" was held on the anniversary of "D-Day" in 2021, Union Pacific & Canadian Pacific displayed special military commemorative locomotives alongside Milwaukee Road E9 32A & Amtrak 161, specially painted for Amtrak's 50th anniversary. Train Days returned in 2022, featuring two restored SD45s from Duluth, GN 400 and NP 3617 , MILW 32A along with multiple Friends of
4080-514: The 4th Street entrance, was designed by architect Charles Sumner Frost and is neoclassical in style. The concourse and the waiting room that extend over the tracks are viewed as a great architectural achievement. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. It is also a contributing property to the Lowertown Historic District . In addition to its transit uses, Union Depot also contains
4182-613: The American Continent, fastest in all the world on a stretch over 200 mi." The C&NW beat two other railroads which had been planning 6½ hour service to begin in the spring. The Milwaukee Road 's Hiawatha and the Burlington Route 's Twin Cities Zephyr were introduced with 6½ hour service a few months later at the same time, and C&NW matched their schedules. The Burlington Zephyrs were
Metro Purple Line (Minnesota) - Misplaced Pages Continue
4284-415: The American Continent, fastest in all the world on a stretch over 200 mi." The C&NW beat two other railroads which had been planning 6½ hour service to begin in the spring. The Milwaukee Road 's Hiawatha and the Burlington Route 's Twin Cities Zephyr were introduced with 6½ hour service a few months later at the same time, and C&NW matched their schedules. The Burlington Zephyrs were
4386-600: The COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, as part of Union Pacific's "Great Race Across the Midwest" tour, Union Pacific 4014 , made multiple stops at Union Depot for display before touring around other midwest states including Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Every year since 2014, the depot hosts a weekend of events named "Train Days" which showcases the history and future of railroad travel, 2014 and 2015 were advertised under Amtrak's "Nation Train Day" event. After "National Train Day"
4488-489: The COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, as part of Union Pacific's "Great Race Across the Midwest" tour, Union Pacific 4014 , made multiple stops at Union Depot for display before touring around other midwest states including Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Every year since 2014, the depot hosts a weekend of events named "Train Days" which showcases the history and future of railroad travel, 2014 and 2015 were advertised under Amtrak's "Nation Train Day" event. After "National Train Day"
4590-492: The Depot has hosted a number of events including yoga classes, weddings, seasonal farmers markets, art galas, and holiday tree lighting ceremonies among other various public and private events. In December 2014, for the first time in nearly 50 years, an active steam locomotive returned to St. Paul Union Depot. Milwaukee Road 261 and some historic passenger cars, decorated as the "North Pole Express" ran short excursions to and from
4692-440: The Depot has hosted a number of events including yoga classes, weddings, seasonal farmers markets, art galas, and holiday tree lighting ceremonies among other various public and private events. In December 2014, for the first time in nearly 50 years, an active steam locomotive returned to St. Paul Union Depot. Milwaukee Road 261 and some historic passenger cars, decorated as the "North Pole Express" ran short excursions to and from
4794-608: The METRO system. The Purple Line BRT Corridor Management Committee unanimously rejected the locally preferred alternative to downtown White Bear Lake in June 2022. The route will still travel to Maplewood Mall, but the end point was still to be determined and could be Century College , the TCO Sports Garden, or the I-35E & County Road E park-and-ride lot. Based on a new terminus and revised population projections and models,
4896-593: The Ramsey County Board approved purchasing the depot headhouse for $ 8.2 million, to serve as a METRO Green Line light rail station and for future passenger rail use. In 2010, USPS moved most of the truck operations to a bulk mail processing center in Eagan, Minnesota , making way for rehabilitation of the depot as a rail hub. Demolition of the Postal Service building that blocked track access to
4998-407: The Ramsey County Board approved purchasing the depot headhouse for $ 8.2 million, to serve as a METRO Green Line light rail station and for future passenger rail use. In 2010, USPS moved most of the truck operations to a bulk mail processing center in Eagan, Minnesota , making way for rehabilitation of the depot as a rail hub. Demolition of the Postal Service building that blocked track access to
5100-708: The Tier 1 Evaluation Results report. Ramsey County approved the Locally Preferred Alternative in September 2017. The bus rapid transit project will travel the 14-miles from Saint Paul Union Depot to downtown White Bear Lake on 85-90% dedicated guideway. The project initially had 20 stations but at the public's request an additional station was added. The project's final station location in downtown White Bear Lake has generated controversy. The project would cost between $ 420-470 million and could open as soon as 2026. The project's Environmental Assessment
5202-653: The Twin Cities at the Great Northern Station in Minneapolis , and in 1978 moved to the Midway Station in Saint Paul, about halfway between the downtowns of the two cities. Service returned to the Union Depot from Midway in 2014 after it was delayed for almost two years from the depot's initial grand re-opening in 2012 due to negotiations with the owners of the railroads ( Canadian Pacific Railway , BNSF Railway , and Union Pacific Railroad ) in
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#17327933662555304-457: The Twin Cities at the Great Northern Station in Minneapolis , and in 1978 moved to the Midway Station in Saint Paul, about halfway between the downtowns of the two cities. Service returned to the Union Depot from Midway in 2014 after it was delayed for almost two years from the depot's initial grand re-opening in 2012 due to negotiations with the owners of the railroads ( Canadian Pacific Railway , BNSF Railway , and Union Pacific Railroad ) in
5406-486: The area and the construction of new complex signals on the Merriam Park Subdivision . The westbound Empire Builder arrives from Chicago in the middle of the night, usually around 10:30 p.m. The eastbound Empire Builder arrives around breakfast time. The westbound Borealis arrives from Chicago around 6:29 p.m, and departs on its return journey to Chicago at 11:50 a.m. Also included
5508-410: The area and the construction of new complex signals on the Merriam Park Subdivision . The westbound Empire Builder arrives from Chicago in the middle of the night, usually around 10:30 p.m. The eastbound Empire Builder arrives around breakfast time. The westbound Borealis arrives from Chicago around 6:29 p.m, and departs on its return journey to Chicago at 11:50 a.m. Also included
5610-404: The building was remodeled with a taller central tower and other alterations to the roofline . This station burned in 1915. The current structure was started in 1917 but was not completed until 1923 because World War I forced construction to halt for several years. During its heyday, the depot hosted the passenger trains of nine railroads, and more than 20 million pieces of mail passed through
5712-404: The building was remodeled with a taller central tower and other alterations to the roofline . This station burned in 1915. The current structure was started in 1917 but was not completed until 1923 because World War I forced construction to halt for several years. During its heyday, the depot hosted the passenger trains of nine railroads, and more than 20 million pieces of mail passed through
5814-442: The building's 90th Anniversary. Various displays, vendors, and photographers were featured inside the depot. Outside featured numerous rail equipment, featuring Milwaukee Road 261 , Amtrak's Exhibit Train , and Soo Line FP7a #2500 , among others. On May 6, 2017, featured railroad equipment included Amtrak's veteran's locomotive, two Union Pacific locomotives, a TC&W locomotive, and Northern Pacific RPO #1102. NP RPO #1102 had
5916-442: The building's 90th Anniversary. Various displays, vendors, and photographers were featured inside the depot. Outside featured numerous rail equipment, featuring Milwaukee Road 261 , Amtrak's Exhibit Train , and Soo Line FP7a #2500 , among others. On May 6, 2017, featured railroad equipment included Amtrak's veteran's locomotive, two Union Pacific locomotives, a TC&W locomotive, and Northern Pacific RPO #1102. NP RPO #1102 had
6018-628: The corridor are served by local Metro Transit bus routes . In September 2009, the Metropolitan Council awarded $ 3.4 million to extend the existing park and ride facilities at Maplewood Mall . In September 2010, a commuter bus service is expected to begin service in the corridor. Originating from Columbus and Forest Lake , the route is planning a stop in White Bear Township en route to multiple stops in downtown Saint Paul before terminating at Union Depot. Ridership
6120-539: The corridor. Commuter rail costs were expected to be high if implemented, due to the multiple railroads operating the tracks, additionally some sections of rail would have to be rebuilt on county-owned abandoned rights-of-way . Existing rail is a combination of Class I and Class III railroads. Despite a relatively high population density , projected ridership was lower than originally anticipated because commuters are split in their final destination, mostly downtown Saint Paul or downtown Minneapolis . If commuter rail
6222-633: The depot is to create a hub for intercity connections for local and regional bus service , light rail , and commuter rail . Bus rapid transit (BRT) has been selected for the Rush Line Corridor between St. Paul and White Bear Lake . The southern terminus of this route is planned to be at St. Paul Union Depot. The Gateway Corridor (now called the Gold Line) is also planned to be bus rapid transit and will operate between St. Paul and Woodbury . The Red Rock Corridor has also been proposed as
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#17327933662556324-508: The depot is to create a hub for intercity connections for local and regional bus service , light rail , and commuter rail . Bus rapid transit (BRT) has been selected for the Rush Line Corridor between St. Paul and White Bear Lake . The southern terminus of this route is planned to be at St. Paul Union Depot. The Gateway Corridor (now called the Gold Line) is also planned to be bus rapid transit and will operate between St. Paul and Woodbury . The Red Rock Corridor has also been proposed as
6426-406: The depot. It was determined to be an overwhelming success and has continued every year since (as of 2022). In 2014 and 2015 Canadian Pacific's traveling Holiday Train made a stop at the depot. On December 9, 2017, Metro Transit and BNSF operated a "free to ride" Northstar Holiday Train between Big Lake and St. Paul Union Depot. The event continued in 2018 and 2019, before discontinuing in 2020 due to
6528-406: The depot. It was determined to be an overwhelming success and has continued every year since (as of 2022). In 2014 and 2015 Canadian Pacific's traveling Holiday Train made a stop at the depot. On December 9, 2017, Metro Transit and BNSF operated a "free to ride" Northstar Holiday Train between Big Lake and St. Paul Union Depot. The event continued in 2018 and 2019, before discontinuing in 2020 due to
6630-467: The distinction of being the "Last Mail Train" as Train Day attendees had mail transported inside the car from Union Depot to Osceola, Wisconsin. On May 5, 2018, Minnesota Transportation Museum equipment along with Union Pacific's Chicago & Northwestern 'heritage' locomotive were on display. Train Days 2019 featured Soo Line 700 from LSRM and Wisconsin & Southern E9-A 101 from the Friends of
6732-412: The distinction of being the "Last Mail Train" as Train Day attendees had mail transported inside the car from Union Depot to Osceola, Wisconsin. On May 5, 2018, Minnesota Transportation Museum equipment along with Union Pacific's Chicago & Northwestern 'heritage' locomotive were on display. Train Days 2019 featured Soo Line 700 from LSRM and Wisconsin & Southern E9-A 101 from the Friends of
6834-421: The federal government began imposing stricter rules for high-speed operation, and expensive advanced signaling was installed along the routes to the Twin Cities, though trains generally traveled a maximum of 90 to 100 mph (140 to 160 km/h). Unable to keep up with an increasing automobile speeds on an improving road network and other factors that kept passengers away from trains, train ridership declined and
6936-421: The federal government began imposing stricter rules for high-speed operation, and expensive advanced signaling was installed along the routes to the Twin Cities, though trains generally traveled a maximum of 90 to 100 mph (140 to 160 km/h). Unable to keep up with an increasing automobile speeds on an improving road network and other factors that kept passengers away from trains, train ridership declined and
7038-573: The first streamlined diesel-electric trains to serve the Twin Cities, and originally ran in an articulated configuration. The 400 (now renamed the Twin Cities 400 ) followed in 1939, but using more conventional trucks and couplers to link passenger cars together. The Hiawatha had always been powered by a streamlined (or, in the terminology of the Milwaukee Road, "speedlined") steam locomotive . The Twin Cities Zephyrs added
7140-445: The first streamlined diesel-electric trains to serve the Twin Cities, and originally ran in an articulated configuration. The 400 (now renamed the Twin Cities 400 ) followed in 1939, but using more conventional trucks and couplers to link passenger cars together. The Hiawatha had always been powered by a streamlined (or, in the terminology of the Milwaukee Road, "speedlined") steam locomotive . The Twin Cities Zephyrs added
7242-632: The five daily fast trains became unprofitable. The Twin Cities 400 was the first victim, ending service on July 23, 1963. It was announced that when Amtrak formally took over most passenger service on May 1, 1971, it would consolidate its Twin Cities service in Minneapolis at the Minneapolis Great Northern Depot . Accordingly, the Burlington (later Burlington Northern ) Zephyrs ended service on April 30, 1971,
7344-426: The five daily fast trains became unprofitable. The Twin Cities 400 was the first victim, ending service on July 23, 1963. It was announced that when Amtrak formally took over most passenger service on May 1, 1971, it would consolidate its Twin Cities service in Minneapolis at the Minneapolis Great Northern Depot . Accordingly, the Burlington (later Burlington Northern ) Zephyrs ended service on April 30, 1971,
7446-555: The introduction of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy 's Zephyr . After making a "Dawn-to-Dusk Dash" from Chicago to Denver, Colorado , the CB&;Q's interest soon turned to the Twin Cities run. A demonstration run was completed in 6 hours and 4 minutes, including six one-minute stops. Other railroads were soon busy investigating how to run faster trains to Saint Paul and Minneapolis. The first locomotive to run in Minnesota ,
7548-446: The introduction of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy 's Zephyr . After making a "Dawn-to-Dusk Dash" from Chicago to Denver, Colorado , the CB&Q's interest soon turned to the Twin Cities run. A demonstration run was completed in 6 hours and 4 minutes, including six one-minute stops. Other railroads were soon busy investigating how to run faster trains to Saint Paul and Minneapolis. The first locomotive to run in Minnesota ,
7650-647: The mayor passed a resolution requesting that the route not enter their city. Unlike light rail projects, bus rapid transit projects in Minnesota do not require municipal consent to be constructed. White Bear Lake approved resolutions in support of the project as recently as 2020, but a recently election which elected several opponents of the project changed the level of support within White Bear Lake city government. In response, Metro Transit and Ramsey County are developing alternatives which may entail truncating
7752-569: The project is currently being developed by Ramsey County, following completion of the Environmental Assessment the project development is handed off to the Metropolitan Council for completion and operation. The project has completed the planning process and is now in the development phase with an engineering firm hired as a consultant. In March 2022, the White Bear Lake City Council with support from
7854-556: The project no longer met the threshold for federal funding and requires revision to unlock federal funds as part of the Capital Investment Grants program. The city of Maplewood withdrew support from the project in October 2022 amid concerns of the use eminent domain in the project and the future of the transit ridership in a post-COVID-19 era of increased work from home and decreased ridership. The city called for
7956-427: The route at Maplewood Mall or County Road E, and offering a "Purple Line Connector" bus route from the new terminus of the Purple Line to White Bear Lake. The Purple Line Connector would have reduced frequency of buses but the same span of service as the Purple Line. A connector route would have minimal infrastructure improvements but still respond to the project's goals of connecting the northeast metropolitan area with
8058-546: The same board, composed of representatives of the nine tenants. Train ridership began to erode in the 1920s as the automobile took hold and airlines began to operate. The railroads sought ways to stem the flow of passengers and compete with these new forms of transportation. As the Great Depression unfolded, more aggressive moves were required. The streamliner era in the United States began in 1934 with
8160-417: The same board, composed of representatives of the nine tenants. Train ridership began to erode in the 1920s as the automobile took hold and airlines began to operate. The railroads sought ways to stem the flow of passengers and compete with these new forms of transportation. As the Great Depression unfolded, more aggressive moves were required. The streamliner era in the United States began in 1934 with
8262-465: The same day the depot closed. The Afternoon Zephyr was the last train to serve the depot when it departed that evening bound for Minneapolis. At this time, this train was normally combined with the Empire Builder and North Coast Limited from Chicago to St. Paul, except on Fridays when it ran as a separate train. Since April 30 was a Friday, the Zephyr had the "honor" of being the last train to depart
8364-413: The same day the depot closed. The Afternoon Zephyr was the last train to serve the depot when it departed that evening bound for Minneapolis. At this time, this train was normally combined with the Empire Builder and North Coast Limited from Chicago to St. Paul, except on Fridays when it ran as a separate train. Since April 30 was a Friday, the Zephyr had the "honor" of being the last train to depart
8466-410: The station began in mid-March 2011. The USPS ramp cut all the way across the train deck and blocked the ability for tracks to be installed, so the ramp was modified during restoration to make a roughly right-angle turn to access new bus platforms on the north end of the train deck while freeing up room for a few tracks to be restored on the south end. The renovation was completed in late November 2012 at
8568-410: The station began in mid-March 2011. The USPS ramp cut all the way across the train deck and blocked the ability for tracks to be installed, so the ramp was modified during restoration to make a roughly right-angle turn to access new bus platforms on the north end of the train deck while freeing up room for a few tracks to be restored on the south end. The renovation was completed in late November 2012 at
8670-416: The station to the neighboring St. Paul Central Downtown Post Office annually. At its peak in the 1920s, there were 282 train movements daily. The waiting room stood atop nine platforms serving 18 tracks; the eight northern ones closest to the headhouse were stub-end tracks, while the other ten ran through. However, track ownership and trackage rights west of the station meant that most trains operated as though
8772-416: The station to the neighboring St. Paul Central Downtown Post Office annually. At its peak in the 1920s, there were 282 train movements daily. The waiting room stood atop nine platforms serving 18 tracks; the eight northern ones closest to the headhouse were stub-end tracks, while the other ten ran through. However, track ownership and trackage rights west of the station meant that most trains operated as though
8874-552: The station was a stub terminal. These trains, when they were intended to continue beyond the station, instead backed up to a wye just to the east to get to other main lines. The Saint Paul Union Depot Company controlled 9.24 miles (14.87 km) of St. Paul trackage and terminal facilities, including the depot building. The company was operated in tandem with the Minnesota Transfer Railway Company, with effective control of both properties exercised by
8976-461: The station was a stub terminal. These trains, when they were intended to continue beyond the station, instead backed up to a wye just to the east to get to other main lines. The Saint Paul Union Depot Company controlled 9.24 miles (14.87 km) of St. Paul trackage and terminal facilities, including the depot building. The company was operated in tandem with the Minnesota Transfer Railway Company, with effective control of both properties exercised by
9078-457: The station. Area boosters had long hoped that trains would return to the Union Depot, and plans gathered steam as the Blue Line light rail project in Minneapolis drew toward completion. Planners envisioned the depot being used for a restored Amtrak service along with Metro and Jefferson Lines buses. A few businesses had occupied the headhouse since the halt of train service in 1971, while
9180-401: The station. Area boosters had long hoped that trains would return to the Union Depot, and plans gathered steam as the Blue Line light rail project in Minneapolis drew toward completion. Planners envisioned the depot being used for a restored Amtrak service along with Metro and Jefferson Lines buses. A few businesses had occupied the headhouse since the halt of train service in 1971, while
9282-719: The way to Hinckley, Minnesota . The corridor studied roughly follows the path of U.S. Route 61 and Interstate 35 . Along with the Red Rock Corridor in the southeast and the Southwest Corridor in the southwest Metro , it was considered a "Tier Two" commuter rail project with scheduled implementation after 2020. Efforts to improve the corridor are coordinated by the Rush Line Corridor Task Force, formed in 1999 and composed of 22 elected officials from counties and municipalities along
9384-455: Was about 20 miles (32 km) longer than the competition. In southwestern Wisconsin, a stretch of track between stations required an average speed of 84.4 miles per hour (135.8 km/h). Eventually, the Hiawathas , Zephyrs , and the 400 ran 6¼-hour service between St. Paul and Chicago, and for a time the Morning Zephyr from Chicago reached St. Paul in six hours flat. In the 1950s,
9486-399: Was about 20 miles (32 km) longer than the competition. In southwestern Wisconsin, a stretch of track between stations required an average speed of 84.4 miles per hour (135.8 km/h). Eventually, the Hiawathas , Zephyrs , and the 400 ran 6¼-hour service between St. Paul and Chicago, and for a time the Morning Zephyr from Chicago reached St. Paul in six hours flat. In the 1950s,
9588-758: Was built it could have connected with the proposed Northern Lights Express in Hinckley and provide a more direct link between Saint Paul and Duluth . Alternatives to commuter rail were presented, including the implementation bus rapid transit throughout the corridor or light rail in the Ramsey County portion, from Union Depot to White Bear Lake . Despite having significantly lower operating costs than commuter rail, light rail would require taking lanes on East Seventh Street in downtown Saint Paul, additionally track right of way would run close to residential structures. The Ramsey and Washington county portions of
9690-409: Was designed by architect Charles Sumner Frost and is neoclassical in style. The concourse and the waiting room that extend over the tracks are viewed as a great architectural achievement. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. It is also a contributing property to the Lowertown Historic District . In addition to its transit uses, Union Depot also contains
9792-626: Was discontinued in 2015, Union Depot rebranded the event as "Union Depot Train Days" beginning in 2016. Those in attendance are treated to model train layouts, indoor and outdoor exhibits, memorabilia vendors, photography events, and railroad equipment displays, some of which are open to public touring on the platform. "Train Days" typically sees participation from area railroads and preservation organizations, including Amtrak , BNSF Railway , Canadian Pacific Kansas City , Union Pacific , Operation Lifesaver , Lake Superior Railroad Museum , Railroading Heritage of Midwest America (and subsidiary Friends of
9894-626: Was discontinued in 2015, Union Depot rebranded the event as "Union Depot Train Days" beginning in 2016. Those in attendance are treated to model train layouts, indoor and outdoor exhibits, memorabilia vendors, photography events, and railroad equipment displays, some of which are open to public touring on the platform. "Train Days" typically sees participation from area railroads and preservation organizations, including Amtrak , BNSF Railway , Canadian Pacific Kansas City , Union Pacific , Operation Lifesaver , Lake Superior Railroad Museum , Railroading Heritage of Midwest America (and subsidiary Friends of
9996-453: Was released in May 2021 for public comment. An end-to-end running time of roughly 45 minutes was projected. An estimated 7,400 rides were projected by 2040 with 54% of those rides being for work commutes. 70% of the 15-mile route would be on guideway dedicated to transit. The project needs to undergo further project development, final engineering, and construction before service begins in 2026. While
10098-496: Was scheduled for 58 minutes—an average of 81 miles per hour (130 km/h). Speeds up to and above 100 miles per hour (160 km/h) were achieved on a daily basis, and the powerful Milwaukee Road class F7 engines (designed for a "reserve speed" of 125 miles per hour (201 km/h)) likely ran more miles at or above 100 miles per hour (160 km/h) than any other steam locomotives in history. Burlington's diesel Zephyrs were also very fast, and they had to be—the Zephyr route
10200-496: Was scheduled for 58 minutes—an average of 81 miles per hour (130 km/h). Speeds up to and above 100 miles per hour (160 km/h) were achieved on a daily basis, and the powerful Milwaukee Road class F7 engines (designed for a "reserve speed" of 125 miles per hour (201 km/h)) likely ran more miles at or above 100 miles per hour (160 km/h) than any other steam locomotives in history. Burlington's diesel Zephyrs were also very fast, and they had to be—the Zephyr route
10302-541: Was sliced into the train deck at the intersection of Kellogg Boulevard and Broadway Street for USPS vehicles. In the early 2000s, the upper levels of the headhouse were converted into 33 2-story loft condominiums. In 2005, the Ramsey County Regional Railroad Authority secured funding to renovate the station as an intermodal transit hub served by Amtrak trains, Metro Transit light rail, and intercity bus lines. In June 2009,
10404-441: Was sliced into the train deck at the intersection of Kellogg Boulevard and Broadway Street for USPS vehicles. In the early 2000s, the upper levels of the headhouse were converted into 33 2-story loft condominiums. In 2005, the Ramsey County Regional Railroad Authority secured funding to renovate the station as an intermodal transit hub served by Amtrak trains, Metro Transit light rail, and intercity bus lines. In June 2009,
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