Council adopts American Boulevard Transit Study; 6‑1 vote advances BRT conversation

The Bloomington City Council voted 6‑1 on Dec. 22 to adopt the American Boulevard Transit Study, a planning document that outlines potential bus rapid transit (BRT) alignments, land‑use recommendations and infrastructure concepts for American Boulevard.

Kirk Roberts summarized the study’s three goals: test transit alignment options that could support BRT, recommend land‑use guidance to support future transit investment, and identify infrastructure changes to improve multimodal access. Roberts said two alignment candidates performed well in Metro Transit discussions: a route toward Edina via France Avenue and a continuation of Route 4 from Minneapolis to Mall of America.

Roberts said the plan will be integrated into the city’s comprehensive plan update beginning next year, and staff will continue conversations with Metro Transit and partner agencies to evaluate whether and when to pursue BRT lanes, dedicated right‑of‑way or other transit investments. Roberts described BRT benefits — higher frequency, limited stops and extended service hours — and said the typical BRT spacing is about 15‑minute headways in peak service.

Council discussion focused on cost, business access, regulatory or partner constraints, and whether sufficient demand exists today to justify dedicated lanes. Council member Rivas voiced skepticism about immediate demand and return on investment; Roberts and other members said the value of a formal plan is to set community expectations and preserve options for the future. Council member Carter moved to adopt the study; the motion passed 6‑1 with Council member Rivas recorded in opposition.

Next steps: staff will bring land‑use recommendations into the comprehensive plan update, meet with Metro Transit and regional partners in early 2026, and identify funding and design approaches if partner agencies prioritize a BRT route.