Leaders inaugurate Phase II of Phoenix's Northwest light rail extension.

Phoenix celebrates the Northwest Phase II light rail extension, enhancing transit access and community connectivity.

 

Over 2,000 attendees marked the debut of the Northwest Phase II light rail extension in Phoenix, a milestone among several for Valley Metro and the community, including the first elevated station, a dedicated rail bridge crossing I-17, and a comprehensive transit hub named in honor of ex-Phoenix Mayor Thelda Williams.

This expansion was enabled by a $150 million grant from the Capital Investment Grant program by the FTA, complemented by $213 million from Phoenix's T2050 and an additional $30 million through Proposition 400.

FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez commented, "I'm thrilled to return to Phoenix, celebrating the impactful extension funded under President Biden’s infrastructure initiative. It’s a testament to the city and Valley Metro's efficiency, completing it under budget and ahead of schedule. Well done to everyone involved."

Launched in 2020, the construction effort generated 3,000 local jobs and 6,000 nationwide, introducing three new stations and anticipated to draw 1,400 daily new users, enhancing West Valley's connectivity to Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego reflected, "For over two decades, this extension has been a pivotal element of Phoenix's transit strategy. Today, we celebrate not just our community's foresight and dedication to sustainable development, but also the nearly $1.3 billion commitment through Proposition 400 that has transformed our light rail network, promoting mobility and economic growth throughout Maricopa County."