Key Takeaways
- Phoenix’s $1.34 billion South Central Extension has officially opened, adding 8,000 daily riders to the light rail system.
- The extension features eight new stations and will allow trains to run more frequently on two lines.
- Funding came from federal grants and local investments, and the project faced several delays before completion.
New Light Rail Extension Opens in Phoenix
The Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority announced the opening of Phoenix’s $1.34 billion South Central Extension and downtown station on June 7. The 5.5-mile extension is projected to increase the city’s light rail system by 8,000 riders daily, enhancing connectivity across the 35-mile network.
This project introduces a dual-line configuration to the light rail service: the newly established north-south B Line, which includes the extension, and the existing east-west A Line connecting downtown Phoenix to Mesa. Omaha, Nebraska-based contractor Kiewit was responsible for the construction, which enables more frequent train service with the addition of eight new stations, bringing the total to 48 stops.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego emphasized the significance of the project, stating it enhances connections for residents while aligning with the city’s sustainability goals. She also indicated that further light rail expansion remains a priority for Phoenix, according to reports by ABC 15.
The scope of the project extended beyond rail construction. It included a new park-and-ride facility, a downtown transit hub, improved bike lanes, pedestrian pathways, and more than 30 miles of underground infrastructure upgrades. Local artists contributed to the cultural landscape with 18 art installations throughout the extension.
Funding for the project was predominantly sourced from federal grants, alongside local funding initiatives like Phoenix Transportation 2050 and regional Proposition 400 investments. This financial structure reflects a collaborative effort to revitalize public transportation in the area.
Planning for the South Central Extension began in 2012, with the design phase launching in 2017. Construction kicked off in 2019, initially scheduled for completion in 2023. However, various factors contributed to delays, including the COVID-19 pandemic, unforeseen utility relocations, and opposition from a ballot initiative intended to halt such expansion projects.
In a 2020 referendum, Phoenix voters decisively rejected the measure that would have blocked this light rail extension and limited future rail investments in the city. This outcome illustrated strong community support for enhancing public transport infrastructure, reaffirming the city’s commitment to expanding its light rail network.
As the new extension opens to riders, it signifies not just an investment in transportation but also an ongoing commitment to fostering sustainable and accessible urban mobility in Phoenix. The successful completion of this project represents a significant milestone in the city’s transport development strategy.
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