Phoenix Light Rail Extension Awarded Millions In Federal Funds

PHOENIX — The Phoenix light rail system has been given a big financial boost, the U.S. Federal Transit Administration announced Wednesday. The project has been awarded $50 million in federal funding to help expand transportation into the northwestern part of the city.

The money will go to the second phase of the light rail's extension, which will extend the system west on Dunlap Avenue from 19th Avenue, then north on 25th Avenue and across I-17 at Mountain View Road, ending near the former Metrocenter Mall. The project will also include several new stations, including the system’s first elevated station, and public art.

“These critical rail transit infrastructure projects will help communities improve transit service as they continue to address the impacts of COVID-19 and recover from this public health emergency,” said K. Jane Williams, deputy administrator of the FTA.

The federal agency also announced funding for rail projects in New Jersey, Kansas City and Indiana. The funding from its Capital Investment Grant totals $400 million.

Valley Metro has said 50,000 riders rely on the light rail to get around every day since it opened to the public in 2008, according to its website. The extension is intended to drive more people and businesses into underserved areas of the city, including south Phoenix.

In 2016, the Phoenix City Council approved accelerating portions of the transit system. With the acceleration, this second phase will open in 2024 instead of 2026.

The city of Phoenix has invited public comment on the project from now until Sept. 4. Residents can access information on northwest extension here. The presentation will include images of the project’s final design, art renderings and what to expect during different phases of construction.