Minnesota Seeks Public Input on Rail Expansion Plans Amid Recent Derailment Concerns

(KNSI) – Less than a week after 15 Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail cars went off the tracks in Big Lake, the Minnesota Department of Transportation is asking for public input on current plans to expand passenger rail service.

The questionnaire comes out as the memory of March 2023’s derailment near Raymond remains fresh. The city of nearly 800 had to be evacuated after two cars containing denatured ethanol started on fire.

MnDOT has put together a survey to better understand how passenger rail can improve connectivity throughout the state. The agency is updating the Minnesota State Rail Plan and is asking residents to fill out a survey about their preferences for the future development of passenger and freight services. Minnesotans can also use an interactive map to comment on specific rail crossings and stations.

This is MnDOT’s second survey, which will help develop an overall vision for the state’s rail system.

Get more information and find a link to the survey by clicking here.

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