After 16 years, Northstar rail line suspended — cities left searching for next steps

After 16 years in operation, Minnesota’s Northstar rail line has been suspended, leaving uncertainty for cities and commuters along the route. Ridership never fully recovered after the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting officials to replace train service with commuter buses. In Anoka, where the city invested $10 million in station infrastructure, concerns are mounting over the safety and upkeep of unused rail facilities — and the possibility that federal funds may need to be repaid. Mayor Erik Skogquist tells us more.