UPDATE: A new Metro Transit bus route, Route 345, launched Sunday, connecting riders from Washington and Dakota County directly to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and the Mall of America. This development is a game-changer for commuters, significantly reducing travel times by nearly 30 minutes.
Officials announced that this expansion restores service to the Newport Transit Station, marking a pivotal moment for the East Metro community. “It’s a big day for the community and for the east metro,” said Karla Bigham, Washington County District 4 Commissioner. “This expansion of transit is essential for our residents.”
Metro Transit reports that Route 345 aims to provide “faster and more reliable service” across the southeast metro region. Buses will operate hourly from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, connecting with key routes such as the Gold Line, Blue Line, and Red Line. This means quicker access to major destinations for those who rely on public transportation.
Prior to the launch, the commute from Woodbury to the Mall of America took approximately an hour and a half. “Now, with Route 345, that travel time is cut almost in half,” explained Steve Baisden, Metro Transit senior service planner. This enhancement is expected to benefit those without vehicles or those in one-car households.
This route was established under the Network Now initiative by the Metropolitan Council, which seeks to revitalize transit services in response to pandemic-related changes in travel patterns. Alongside Route 345, Metro Transit introduced two additional routes, 725 and 837, funded through the council’s Regional Transportation Sales and Use Tax.
“Route 345 will inevitably expand network access and improve regional accessibility, mainly along the Highway 62 and I-494 corridor,” Baisden added. The route will not only restore service at Newport Transit Station but will also cater to various communities along its path.
Over a year in planning, Route 345 reflects the needs identified through transit data and community feedback. “We didn’t have public transportation in the east metro, like Washington County, to the airport or to the Mall of America, which is pretty important,” Bigham noted.
Residents can now utilize stops at Woodlane Station, which also services routes 323, 355, and Metro Micro, along with the Gold Line. The Newport Transit Station, previously closed due to low ridership prior to the pandemic, is also expected to see an increase in traffic with the introduction of this new route.
Baisden highlighted the importance of adapting to changing travel trends, stating, “This is a route that’s providing new connections that were not possible prior to the pandemic.” He emphasized that it aims to facilitate access to jobs and services in the south metro area.
The new Route 345 also connects with local routes in West St. Paul, creating additional transit options at key intersections. Looking ahead, Baisden confirmed plans for Route 345 to connect with the G Line along South Robert Street, set to open in 2028.
With three Park & Ride lots at Woodlane Station, the Newport Transit Center, and 30th Avenue Station in Bloomington, commuters have more convenient options than ever before. For real-time updates on bus maps and schedules, visit metrotransit.org.
