Longer-term plans include an 11-mile westward extension from downtown Phoenix as well as a 2.6-mile streetcar route in Tempe. An eastward extension is set to begin construction at the other end of the line in Mesa. Plans for growth include several more extensions. “As we continue to grow and we go forward, I want everyone to know that we keep our promises,” Williams said. “It’s an important tool to have for neighborhood redevelopment revitalization.”Ĭouncilwoman Thelda Williams, chairwoman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, said Phoenix is committed to expanding light rail. “Light rail is more than just transit,” said Phoenix City Councilman Daniel Valenzuela, whose district encompasses the extension. Stanton and other officials said they hope expanding light rail revitalizes the area. Officials are searching for funding to accelerate that process. Phase II, tentatively set to head west toward Metrocenter Mall, isn’t expected to become operational until 2026. Phase I, which will add three stations, is scheduled to be completed in either late 2015 or early 2016. The extension, which was shelved in 2009 because of the weak economy, will occur in two phases. The ceremony was held near the Montebello and 19th Avenue station, which currently is the line’s western terminus. “Today, we wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to lay a marker, figuratively and literally lay a marker, so that the public knows that we are fully committed to extending this light rail into northwest Phoenix,” Stanton said. On Thursday, Stanton and other officials unveiled signs going up along North 19th Avenue to West Dunlap Avenue saying “Future Light Rail Route.” Now those driving along the route will have their own signs that change is coming. PHOENIX – Mayor Greg Stanton calls the revived 3.2-mile extension of Metro light rail into north Phoenix a sign of the rebounding economy.
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