This bill aims to enhance transportation planning and project development in Minnesota by introducing new performance measures, establishing a transit system investment framework, and implementing zoning requirements for transit-oriented development. Key provisions include the definition of "high frequency service" for transit, the requirement for the Metropolitan Council to develop a transportation policy plan that incorporates public input and performance measures, and the establishment of a transit system investment framework that identifies necessary improvements to meet regional transit benchmarks. Additionally, the bill mandates a performance evaluation of the transportation system prior to major revisions of the policy plan and requires updates every two years.

The bill also includes specific amendments to existing statutes, such as changing the terminology from "development guide" to "policy plan" and detailing the council's responsibilities in evaluating transit performance and making recommendations for improvements. It restricts certain highway projects that are inconsistent with the transit investment framework and reallocates funds from various sources if inconsistencies arise. Furthermore, it defines "transit-oriented development" and sets conditions for local governmental units regarding expenditures for transit capital projects, ensuring that they align with the established transit-oriented development standards. The effective date for these provisions is set for the day following final enactment, applying specifically to several counties in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 473.121, 473.146, 473.1466, 473.371, 473.405, 473.852