Phoenix Light Rail Extension Opens Two Years Early

Valley Metro’s Northwest light rail extension brings the Phoenix light rail system to a total of 30 miles.

1 minute read

January 30, 2024, 10:00 AM PST

By Diana Ionescu @aworkoffiction


Group of officials cutting purple ribbon.

RIbbon cutting ceremony for the Valley Metro Northwest light rail extension. | Valley Metro / Northwest Extension Phase II

A new northwest Phoenix light rail line opened two years ahead of schedule, expanding the city’s rapid transit system.

According to an article by Josh Kristianto for ABC 15, the 1.6-mile route, began construction in 2020, and brings rail closer to the West Valley. The line features the city’s first elevated rail station and adds a new multimodal transit center. The city’s light rail system now spans 30 miles, with another 5.5-mile extension scheduled for opening next year.

City officials hope the transit expansion will help spur revitalization and economic development in the area. According to a press release from Valley Metro, “The new extension includes three stations and is anticipated to initially attract 1,400 new, daily riders to the system each day. Crossing the I-17, the project gives greater transit access to the West Valley, connecting current and future riders with opportunities in central Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa.”

Saturday, January 27, 2024 in ABC 15 (Phoenix)

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