News Summary
Phoenix is set to enhance its public transportation with the South Central Light Rail Extension, opening on June 7, 2025. This 5.5-mile extension will connect downtown and south Phoenix, featuring eight new stations, a transit hub, and improved bike and pedestrian pathways. With a $1.34 billion investment, the project aims to improve accessibility for residents, particularly those without reliable vehicle access. The extension is projected to support over 8,000 daily riders and includes 18 public art installations by local artists.
Phoenix is preparing for a significant enhancement to its public transportation system with the scheduled opening of the South Central Light Rail Extension on June 7, 2025. This project will extend the current light rail network by 5.5 miles, connecting downtown Phoenix to south Phoenix, a move that promises to improve connectivity and stimulate economic development in the region.
The new extension features a comprehensive transit hub, eight new stations, and the introduction of 14 new trains into the system. A newly established park-and-ride lot at Baseline and Central Avenue will provide 110 parking spaces for commuters. The project also focuses on enhancing bike lanes and pedestrian pathways along the route, offering a more integrated transit experience for users.
The new South Central Extension will connect seamlessly with the existing light rail network at Jefferson Street and Central Avenue. In preparation for the extension’s opening, Valley Metro is increasing train operations in designated areas and conducting necessary installations, which will lead to temporary closures of certain platforms and stations until June 7.
As of the latest updates, the project is reported to be 95% complete. The accelerated timeline from the originally planned opening in 2034 to the current date of 2025 has been attributed to effective management processes and strategic funding initiatives. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego has emphasized the importance of the extension for improving accessibility to jobs, healthcare, and various social opportunities for residents.
The extension aims to address the significant transportation needs of an area where nearly 44% of residents do not have reliable access to personal vehicles. Valley Metro forecasts that the new extension will cater to over 8,000 daily riders, contributing to the overall daily ridership of approximately 35,000 boardings currently served by the light rail system.
The project also incorporates a strong community aspect, featuring 18 public art installations predominantly created by local artists, enhancing the visual appeal of the transit experience. This commitment to local engagement extends to workforce development, with over 5,000 local workers employed during the project, collectively contributing more than 470,000 work hours. Valley Metro has launched targeted workforce initiatives along with youth STEM programs as part of this commitment.
Financially, the South Central Light Rail Extension is a $1.34 billion investment, with over 50% of the project funded by federal grants. Additional funds have been allocated from Phoenix Transportation 2050 and regional Proposition 400 finances. Since the inception of the Valley Metro service in 2008, projects within the light rail system have attracted over $17.5 billion in public and private investment, highlighting the transformative impact of these transit developments on the region.
As part of the long-term vision, the South Central Transit-Oriented Development Community Plan, approved by the Phoenix City Council in spring 2022, will guide future economic undertakings in the area. This strategic planning initiative reflects a commitment to sustainable growth and development, ensuring that the South Central Extension not only enhances transportation but also supports the community’s economic future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Truck Fire Causes Major Disruption on Loop 101 Freeway
Phoenix Magazine Ranks the Valley’s Top 25 Neighborhoods for 2024
Celebration of Autism and Education in Phoenix
Hiker Rescued from Camelback Mountain in Phoenix
Arizona Legislature Passes Bill to Address Disability Services Deficit
Rescue Teams Respond to Hiking Accident on Camelback Mountain
Nissan to Halt Production at Wuhan Plant by 2026
Phoenix Light Rail Expansion Community Meetings Announced
Trump Endorses Two Candidates in Arizona Gubernatorial Race
AriZona Beverage Company Celebrates Unique Birthday Tradition
Additional Resources
- KTAR News: Valley Metro Light Rail Increasing
- Wikipedia: Public Transport in Phoenix, Arizona
- Signals AZ: Phoenix Light Rail South Central Downtown Hub
- Google Search: Phoenix Light Rail Extension
- AZ Central: South Phoenix Light Rail Extension Opening Date
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Phoenix, Arizona
- Progressive Railroading: Valley Metro to Open Downtown Phoenix Light Rail Extension
- Google News: Valley Metro Light Rail Extension
