Patriot News MN

TO THE EDITOR:

While not all agree with the cancellation of the special Northstar Line runs to the Twins games, it was the only fiscally responsible option available. As the Patriot noted in the previous issue, the monthly ridership on the taxpayer subsidized line fell 96% last year. Consequently, the Metro Transit cancelled the special runs to the Twins games, citing the refusal of Anoka County to continue its funding commitment as the reason for the cancellation. More interesting are the statistics that go with the article. 2,000 passengers per month. 80 trips a month, 20 trips per week (10 into Cities and 10 out or 2 each way per day). 2000 passengers divided by 80 trips=25 passenger average per trip. There are 50 passengers on average each morning and probably the same 50 passengers going back in the afternoon. Northstar’s annual operating budget is $11.4 million and is heavily subsidized. Met Council, that oversees Metro Transit, concedes that the estimated taxpayer subsidy for a one-way ticket to Big Lake is $68.35 with the federal aid from the 2020 CARES Act and $87.79 with that covid funding. The average rider pays $6.25. Many people in MN would appreciate paying only 10% of the cost (or less) for their daily commute to work and for family/personal outings. Why should we the taxpayers pay for these 50 people using the train?