Overview & Suitability

The Blaine area is served by two primary, high-capacity Park & Ride facilities managed by Metro Transit, designed to facilitate stress-free commuting into downtown Minneapolis and surrounding employment hubs. These facilities are intended for daily commuter passenger vehicles and are not designated for overnight camping, RV parking, or long-term vehicle storage.

Access, Dimensions & Clearance

• 95th Avenue Park & Ride: Features a dedicated three-deck parking ramp providing approximately 500 covered spaces, offering excellent protection from Minnesota weather elements.
• Paul Parkway Park & Ride: Offers approximately 300 surface parking spaces. It is optimized for standard passenger vehicles and commuter transit access.
• Navigation: Both sites are designed for easy ingress and egress, situated strategically near major traffic corridors including I-35W and Highway 65.

Parking Rates, Tariffs & Booking

Parking at these Metro Transit-affiliated Park & Ride facilities is free for commuters using the transit services. No pre-booking or online reservation is required; spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Commuters simply park their vehicle and board the express buses to their destination.

Security & Amenities

The facilities prioritize commuter safety and convenience, featuring:

• Strategic outdoor lighting for evening visibility.
• Passenger waiting shelters for protection during bus boarding.
• On-site bicycle racks to support multi-modal commuting.
• Routine transit monitoring.

Strategic Alternative

These Park & Ride lots serve as critical transit hubs for Blaine residents, offering a strategic alternative to navigating heavy rush-hour traffic on I-35W or Highway 65. By utilizing these hubs, commuters can access express bus routes (such as Route 865 and Route 250) that utilize bus-only shoulder lanes, allowing travelers to bypass highway gridlock and significantly reduce transit stress.

Event & Venue Access: Traveling for an event? Check out full guide and rates for parking near Centennial Green Park.