SF2887 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Rail corridor service analysis for passenger rail service to Fargo and Kansas City; commissioner of transportation application for federal passenger rail corridor identification and development programming requirement; appropriating money
Related bill: HF3176
AI Generated Summary
Purpose of the Bill
The purpose of this bill is to explore and develop new passenger rail services that extend beyond Minnesota to Fargo, North Dakota, and Kansas City, Missouri. The bill aims to enhance transportation options and connectivity from Minnesota to neighboring states.
Main Provisions
Federal Application Requirement: The Minnesota Commissioner of Transportation is required to apply to the Federal Railroad Administration’s Corridor Identification and Development Program. This is part of a federal initiative established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Routes Designated for Development:
- St. Paul to Fargo, North Dakota: An extension of existing passenger rail service.
- St. Paul to Kansas City, Missouri: A new route passing through Northfield and Albert Lea in Minnesota, and Des Moines in Iowa.
Funding and Appropriation:
- An appropriation of $1,000,000 from the general fund is allocated to finance the initial stages of these rail projects.
- The funds are for matching state costs with federal grants, planning, development, staffing, and other scoping requirements.
Step 1 Scoping Requirements: The commissioner will carry out all necessary preliminary scoping activities once federal funds are awarded.
Significant Changes
- The bill outlines a new commitment from the Minnesota legislature to expand passenger rail service into two new intercity corridors, extending service beyond state borders.
- It appropriates financial resources specifically for developing selected rail corridors and obtaining necessary federal support.
Relevant Terms
- Passenger rail service
- Rail corridor development
- Federal Railroad Administration
- Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
- St. Paul to Fargo route
- St. Paul to Kansas City route
- Corridor Identification and Development Program
- State rail plan
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 23, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
| March 23, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | Transportation |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Support for intercity passenger rail projects consistent with the policy established in the state rail plan."
],
"removed": [
""
],
"summary": "The bill refers to Minnesota Statutes section 174.03, subdivision 1b for rail corridor planning.",
"modified": [
""
]
},
"citation": "174.03",
"subdivision": "subdivision 1b"
}
]