Lake Street/Midtown station
Future
Future
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Since opening 20 years ago, the condition of the station has declined with frequent vandalism, shattered glass, broken elevators and escalators, and higher levels of crime. Since 2023 there have been security guards positioned at the station which transit officials say have been effective at reducing crime. There have been several high profile shootings and assaults at the station.

In 2024, the Metropolitan Council awarded a contract to redesign the station with construction potentially beginning in 2025\. The light rail system in Minnesota is based on [proof\-of\-payment](/wiki/Proof-of-payment "Proof-of-payment") but the Metropolitan Council is considering enclosing the station with faregates.


Why are security guards effective in reducing crime at the station?