Cost-benefit analysis requirement for proposed guideways

SF 252 requires local governments and transportation agencies to conduct a detailed cost-benefit analysis before selecting a transit guideway project. The analysis must compare the proposed guideway with alternatives like bus rapid transit, regular bus service, and road capacity expansion, including specific metrics such as ridership, vehicle traffic changes, maintenance costs, economic benefits, and environmental impacts. It applies to projects seeking state or federal funding in Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington counties, excluding the Gold Line project. The findings must be publicly posted and submitted to state officials for transparency. This law aims to ensure decisions are based on comprehensive data about project costs, benefits, and alternatives.