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.
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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
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
