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By Theo Burman
Live News Reporter
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Phoenix has opened a major expansion of its Valley Metro Rail system after an inauguration on Saturday
The South Central Extension and Downtown Hub adds nearly five miles of new track and eight new stations, linking downtown Phoenix with the city's south-central corridor.
The Context
The light rail project cost $1.34 billion and took over a decade to plan and build. It is the largest light rail expansion in the Phoenix area's history. The new infrastructure reconfigures the downtown light rail system by creating a two-line hub at Washington and Central Avenue.
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What To Know
The project broke ground in 2019, and was funded through a mix of federal, state, and local dollars, with roughly $638 million coming from the Federal Transit Administration's Capital Investment Grants program.
Phoenix voters had previously approved the extension through the city's Transit 2000 and Transportation 2050 initiatives.
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While the expansion primarily focused on laying track and building stations, the project also included enhancements to pedestrian infrastructure and the installation of more than 20 public art pieces by local artists.
Train service now operates every 12 minutes, with the new stations located at key community points, including Lincoln Street, Buckeye Road, and Southern Avenue. There are also hubs at Central Avenue and Washington Street.
What People Are Saying
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said at the inauguration: "The completion of this project marks an important new connection for residents and moves us closer to our goals as a sustainable and accessible city.
"This historic extension introduces the region's first two-line rail system, creates safer streets and new bike lanes, and adds shade and public art, all while connecting more residents to jobs, education, entertainment and other amenities across the Valley. Equally important, it provides a whole new opportunity to showcase the unique offerings of this thriving corridor."
Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington said: "This grand opening marks a transformative moment for South Phoenix. The South Central Extension represents direct access to local businesses and a community that has historically been disconnected and overlooked.
"South Phoenix deserves investment, inclusion and infrastructure that lifts everyone around it, and that is the vision of the light rail extension."
What Happens Next
Phoenix travelers will now be able to go east/west on the A-line, while the B-line travels north/south, with weekday services increased to 12 minutes before 7 p.m.
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