2021.10.12 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ms. Dan described the Network Next program with the Council. She commented on the plans Metro Transit through 2040 noting priorities and how plans will be implemented. The four principles that will guild the Network Next plan were discussed as being to advance equity and reduce regional racial disparities, to build on success and grow ridership, to design a network that supports a transit-oriented lifestyle and to ensure the long- term sustainable growth of the bus network. Prioritized phasing factors were reviewed. She commented further on the plans for identifying the G and H Lines. Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas asked if Metro Transit considered the percentage of renters within a community when considering bus routes. She noted 40% of New Brighton residents were renters. Ms. Harper explained this was taken into consideration along with other statistics. She noted she pays attention to where affordable housing is located. She discussed how difficult it was to manage transit when naturally occurring affordable housing was occurring in first and second ring suburbs. She noted light rail was all about the corridor. Councilmember Abdulle commented on ridership and noted as more and more people move out of Minneapolis, routes will need to be reconsidered. Ms. Harper stated this has been a challenge and she would continue to address this issue. She discussed how micro transit may be considered in the future but noted this was a higher subsidy service that would be more costly to provide. Councilmember Allen discussed the new housing projects the City had approved and questioned if the recently released census data had been reviewed by Metro Transit. Ms. Harper reported this data was being reviewed and considered by Metro Transit. She commented on how Metro Transit likes to coordinate with cities on roadway and development site plan projects. Met Council Representative Peter Lindstrom stated this was a great discussion and explained he appreciated the great questions that were raised. He commented on the changes that were being made to improve safety for transit riders. He noted he was a conduit for route changes or bus shelters and encouraged the Council to contact him with any comments or questions they may have. Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas thanked Ms. Harper and Ms. Dan for their presentation. Councilmember Allen thanked Met Council Representative Lindstrom for his attendance. Worksession adjourned at 6:28 pm Respectfully submitted, Terri Spangrud City Clerk