Fares established for Northstar Line

The one-day weekday fares are based on the distance between each station and downtown Minneapolis. They are $7 for Big Lake, $5.50 for Elk River, $4 for Anoka, $4 for Coon Rapids and $3.25 for Fridley.

The Big Lake and Elk River fares are introductory rates; the Big Lake fare will increase to $8 within a year and the Elk River fare to $6 within a year.

For riders who don’t travel to downtown Minneapolis, the one-way fare between stations will be $3.25.

The Northstar Line, which will begin service late this year, is expected to carry 3,400 riders each weekday during its first year of operation and eventually grow to 4,100 weekday rides. It will offer five morning trips to Minneapolis and five afternoon trips from Minneapolis during weekday peak periods, along with one reverse-commute trip from Minneapolis in the morning and to Minneapolis in the afternoon.

Three round trips are planned for Saturdays, Sundays and some holidays.

Customers who use “Go-To” smart cards will get a 10 percent bonus with their purchases, and children 5 and younger ride free when accompanied by a paying rider. In addition, Metro Transit will offer reduced fares on weekends for adults, seniors 65 and older, youths between 6 and 12 and Medicare card holders.