Phoenix Celebrates Grand Opening of Light Rail Extension

Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningFestivalsNews

A festive atmosphere during the grand opening of the Phoenix light rail extension, showcasing community engagement and public art.

News Summary

The South Central Extension of Phoenix’s light rail system has officially opened, adding over 5 miles to the Valley Metro network. This addition is expected to attract over 8,000 new riders and significantly enhance local transportation options. Community members and leaders gathered for the grand opening ceremony, marking a transformative step for the region’s accessibility and economy. Despite construction challenges, the long-term benefits of the expansion are anticipated to outweigh these inconveniences, improving connectivity for areas historically underinvested in transit.

Phoenix Celebrates Grand Opening of Light Rail Extension After Decades of Effort

The South Central Extension of the light rail system officially opened in Phoenix, with the first trains departing from the Central and Baseline station. This new section adds over 5 miles of rail to the Valley Metro network and is expected to attract over 8,000 new riders, marking a significant milestone for local transportation.

More than 1,000 community members gathered to celebrate this achievement, which many viewed as transformative for the Phoenix area. The opening ceremony was attended by local leaders and residents, including family members who honored loved ones involved in the long-standing effort to develop the light rail system.

Among the attendees, community members expressed optimism that the expansion will improve accessibility, enhance travel options to and from downtown, and contribute to the overall growth of the local economy. However, some residents also pointed out the challenges faced during the years-long construction period, which had disrupted daily life for many in the area. The relief felt by these residents was evident, as they welcomed the completion of the project.

Congressman Greg Stanton acknowledged the struggles that local businesses faced during the construction phase but pointed out that the long-term benefits of the light rail will outweigh the temporary inconveniences. The South Central Extension is designed to connect historically underinvested areas of the city, where approximately 44% of residents lack access to personal vehicles.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego indicated that further expansion projects are on the horizon, contributing to the city’s comprehensive transportation plan. The light rail project cost $1.3 billion to construct and features new tracks, a central hub, public art installations, new stations, a park-and-ride lot, and improved transit services. The Downtown Hub serves as a major connection point where passengers can switch between the new two-line system— the A Line running east-west and the B Line running north-south—without paying an additional fare within a two-hour window.

Weekday trips from the Downtown Hub to the southern terminus at Baseline Road will take approximately 19 minutes. The cost for a regular adult fare for a single ride is set at $2, with an all-day pass priced at $4. Future expansion plans include a 1.6-mile Capitol Extension and a connection to the West Valley, both of which received voter approval as part of the Transportation 2050 plan in 2015.

The grand opening ceremony also showcased local talent, including Janelle Stanley, who brought her grandson to ride the new extension. Stanley’s artwork was displayed at the new Downtown Hub, further enhancing the connection between the light rail and the community. Additionally, the project pays tribute to the late Ed Pastor, a longtime advocate for public transit funding. His contributions to the community are honored with the Ed Pastor Transit Center located along the South Central Extension.

Phoenix Councilmember Kesha Hodge Washington highlighted the role of the South Central Extension in enhancing connectivity within the community. As the light rail system continues to expand, residents can anticipate improved access to transit options and opportunities for growth throughout South Phoenix.