History repeats: $1B transit project in St. Paul’s old black neighborhood stirs bad memories

New rail stirs bad memories for black neighborhood

ST. PAUL, Minn. — A new light-rail train line in St. Paul is kicking up bad memories of when the interstate was built in the middle of the black neighborhood, essentially shattering the community.

The $1 billion transit line is being built in what was left over of the same neighborhood. Supporters of the line say it’ll bring economic benefits to an area that desperately needs it.

But some neighbors and merchants see a huge downside — a lengthy construction that hurts nearby businesses, and a rise in property values that could force people from their homes.

Some of those critics have filed a federal lawsuit seeking an emergency fund to help businesses, and tax incentives and housing policies that protect current residents.