MN SF3494

Establishes a formal approval process for fixed guideway transit projects requiring local governmental units to approve or disapprove advanced corridor plans within 45 days of a hearing, with failure to respond deemed an approval.

Creates an appeal board mechanism allowing the commissioner of transportation to refer disapproved corridor plans to a three-member board (one member appointed by each party plus a jointly-selected neutral member) that can approve, approve with modifications, or disapprove the plan within 60 days.

Prohibits the commissioner from continuing project planning and design if a local unit disapproves unless an appeal board approves the advanced corridor plan.

Defines "guideway" to include light rail transit, streetcars, commuter rail, intercity rail, and bus rapid transit or express bus service operating on exclusive or controlled rights-of-way, with projects costing less than $100,000,000 excluded from certain requirements.

Applies similar appeal board procedures to Metropolitan Council preliminary design plan approvals and requires the revisor to replace "light rail transit" with "subregional guideway" throughout related statutes.