The station was originally included in Northstar plans, but it was cut in order to meet the Federal Transit Administration's cost-effectiveness index (CEI).

[3][4] The current park-and-ride facility is located on a sliver of land in between Minnesota State Highway 610 and Foley Boulevard.

[2][5] Despite the fact that it already existed and would be a significant source of riders, calculation of the cost-effectiveness index was biased toward saving time of commuters.

[4] Anoka County and the city of Coon Rapids have been acquiring land and making arrangements for matching funds for the station.

The third main line will allow additional passenger rail traffic, including the proposed Northern Lights Express project to connect to Duluth.