MN HF2625

Adds requirement that light rail transit construction cannot commence unless the responsible authority meets new requirements under subdivision 5a, in addition to council designation as locally preferred alternative.

Extends local approval timelines for preliminary design plans from 45 days to 90 days following a public hearing, with mandatory 30-day public notice before hearings.

Requires responsible authority to resubmit amended preliminary design plans, prepare final designs with local amendments, or abandon the project if local units disapprove preliminary plans.

Establishes new subdivision 5a mandating that construction on light rail transit facilities cannot begin unless all affected cities, counties, and towns approve both preliminary and final design plans as applicable.

Applies to light rail projects in preliminary engineering or final design phases on or after the effective date, limited to Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington counties.