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Minneapolis 311
Office 612-673-3000
Email minneapolis311@minneapolismn.gov
www.minneapolismn.gov

Dear Resident,

We appreciate your email.

Minneapolis Public Works Traffic division works with Metro Transit to minimize congestion and delay impacts on non-LRT users of the Hiawatha Avenue and 5th Street corridors.

On the Hiawatha portion of the corridor when a LRT train is approaching an intersection, the traffic signal is programmed to begin the process of clearing the tracks and closing the gates. The train has absolute right of way and will not reduce speed or stop at the crossing except in an emergency.

During peak periods of the day with 7.5 minutes between LRT trains, there may be a train crossing an intersection every 3 to 4 minutes.

Once the LRT train has cleared the crossing, resynchronization of the traffic signal with the adjacent traffic signals restarts. The signal is often unable to complete this coordination effort before the next train arrives. Public Works has adjusted the signals to the best of their ability and under current Metro Transit operational policies further adjustment is not possible.
The City is working on securing some additional funding to further improve traffic signal operations on the Corridor south of Lake Street.

If there is anything else we can help you with please contact us. Thank you for emailing the City of Minneapolis.

Gina

Minneapolis 311
Office 612-673-3000 Hours: 7 am - 7 pm (Monday - Friday)
Email minneapolis311@minneapolismn.gov
www.minneapolismn.gov