Commuters in Carver and the far southwestern suburbs have a new way to get to downtown Minneapolis and the University of Minnesota, starting Monday.

SouthWest Transit kicks off service from the new Carver Transit Station with morning and afternoon express service with free rides this week. There also will be limited mid-day service from the station at Jonathan Carver Parkway and Ironwood Drive, just south of Hwy 212.

Along with 400 parking spaces, the Carver Station features a climate controlled waiting area, something riders will likely appreciate on a day like today.

"SouthWest Transit has seen interest for our transit service growing in Carver and areas further west for the past several years," said Len Simich, CEO of SouthWest Transit. "The City of Carver was awarded a federal grant and was able to contract with SWT to provide the service."