Summer 2026 Changes

At MVTA, public feedback plays a central role in how we make service decisions. Our goal is to provide reliable, efficient transit while ensuring riders maintain the access they depend on. The proposed Summer 2026 service changes reflect not only operational priorities, but also the voices of the community members who shared their experiences and needs throughout the outreach process.

Between March 4 and April 6, MVTA conducted an extensive public engagement effort to gather input. This included in-person outreach at transit stations and community locations, on-board conversations with riders, an online survey and interactive map, a recorded webinar, and direct coordination with cities and counties. Through these efforts, we received more than 230 individual pieces of feedback. This input provided important insight into how proposed changes would affect riders’ daily lives.

Overall, many riders expressed an understanding of the need for targeted service adjustments. However, we also heard clearly that maintaining access, especially for those with limited transportation alternatives, remains critically important. One of the most significant concerns came from Rosemount riders regarding the proposed suspension of Route 484 service to St. Paul. We heard from commuters, including individuals with disabilities, who would face substantial challenges getting to alternative service options at Apple Valley Transit Station. In response, MVTA adjusted the proposal to introduce a new Route 480R, which will provide one daily trip in each direction from both Rosemount Transit Station and Apple Valley Transit Station to St. Paul. This change sustains an essential (reduced) connection while still aligning with broader service efficiency goals. We also received strong feedback about maintaining service access at Palomino Hills Park and Ride. Riders emphasized the importance of this location as a convenient and necessary access point to the system. Based on this input, MVTA developed a new Route 477P pattern, which will provide three daily trips in each direction connecting Palomino Hills, 157th Street Station, and Apple Valley Transit Station to downtown Minneapolis.

In addition, feedback on Routes 470 and 472 highlighted the importance of certain trip times for riders’ commutes. As a result, some of those trips have been retained in the final proposal to better align with rider needs.

These adjustments demonstrate how public feedback directly influences decision-making at MVTA. While we remain focused on improving efficiency and long-term sustainability, we are equally committed to listening and responding to the community. Moving forward, MVTA will continue to monitor route performance and rider experience, alongside ongoing public input, to ensure that service decisions remain both data-driven and responsive to the people we serve.