MN HF3617

Establishes design specifications for transit shelters that must include engineering standards, protection from wind and snow with fully extending walls and barriers, warming capability where there is high passenger boarding, and full accessibility for elderly and persons with disabilities.

Requires transit authorities to consult with the Transportation Accessibility Advisory Committee when establishing transit shelter design specifications.

Mandates transit authorities maintain bus stops and transit shelters in good working order, including weekly inspection of automatic doors, keeping facilities clean and graffiti-free, and removing snow and ice to ensure accessibility.

Requires the Metropolitan Council to retrofit or replace all buses used in revenue service by January 1, 2011 so the first boarding step is located at an easily accessible height, in consultation with the Transportation Accessibility Advisory Committee.

Applies special transportation service bus requirements to Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington counties.