Metro Bus Announces Public Input Meeting for Western Transit Center

(KNSI) – Metro Bus has proposed building a new Western Transit Center in Waite Park and wants the public’s input.

On September 22nd, there will be a public input meeting from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the St. Cloud Area School District Administration Office, located at 1201 2nd St. S., Waite Park, through Door 5.

The transit center would be located at the corner of 2nd Avenue South and Sundial Drive. The company says it will better serve the growing communities in the western part of the service area and would be designed as a multi-modal transit hub for Metro Bus Fixed Route and Dial-a-Ride services, pedestrians, bicycles, and more. This development is part of the Metro Bus Forward initiative, which will bring improved route alignments utilizing the new Western Transit Center to provide transfers, pass sales, customer service, and more.

A press release from Metro Bus says the proposed transit center aims to enhance connectivity across the service area in conjunction with the upcoming Metro Bus Forward route realignment. The facility will create a drop-off point on the west side of the service area to allow for shorter rides and allow for more efficient development of the public transportation system. It is also designed to increase flexibility for passengers by providing additional transfer options while optimizing customer experience throughout the service area by reducing congestion at the downtown St. Cloud Transit Center and other hubs.

Following a Request for Proposal and vetting process, Metro Bus selected Oertel Architects to design and build the facility which is tentatively scheduled to open in late 2026.

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