In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing planning and budget considerations for the Purple Line transit project, which aims to enhance transportation options in the Maplewood area. The project, originally budgeted at approximately $445 million for a route to White Bear Lake, is currently estimated to range between $370 million and $445 million, depending on the final alignment chosen.

The meeting highlighted the importance of community support, particularly from the city of Maplewood and St. Paul, in determining the route. Officials noted that the White Bear Avenue option offers significantly more transit stop locations compared to the Bruce Vento Trail, which has limited access points. This is particularly relevant as the area served by White Bear Avenue is predominantly BIPOC and lower-income residents, making the project a critical investment in equitable transit access.

The timeline for the project is advancing, with a decision on the alignment expected by October 2023. This decision will determine whether the transit line will follow White Bear Avenue or the Bruce Vento Trail. The discussions also addressed the need for a full reconstruction of White Bear Avenue to accommodate the transit line, which would include improvements to pedestrian safety and accessibility.

As the project progresses, officials emphasized the transformative potential of the transit investment for the community, aiming to address existing challenges such as difficult road crossings and limited transportation options. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue engaging with the community to ensure the project meets local needs and expectations.