South Central Light Rail Construction: Here’s What You Need to Know
by Fara Illich
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More than 50,000 riders rely on light rail each day, according to Valley Metro, and the new extension will increase that capacity. (Photo: Lauren Potter)
The 5.5-mile, $1.35 billion light rail project linking south Phoenix to downtown and elsewhere in the Valley is now officially underway. Valley Metro started construction in October, with crews identifying and replacing underground utilities in the downtown area. Some sidewalks and roadways are already impacted.
Dec. 21, 2019 through Jan. 5, 2020: Light rail will operate on an adjusted schedule, arriving approximately every 24 minutes. Visit valleymetro.org/pardonourprogress for more info.
South Central Light Rail is expected to be operational in 2024.
If you have any questions about light rail construction, or would like to sign up for the construction notification email list, please contact Julie Cruz Gilfillan at jcruz@valleymetro.org. Also, a new mobile app will be launched by Valley Metro in early 2020 with traffic information and other project news. In the meantime, the website has all the latest construction notices, FAQs, information about business assistance and more.
The city block between Central and First avenues, Washington and Jefferson streets is known as the new Downtown Hub. In addition to the existing platform on First Avenue, which will remain, three new station platforms will be installed — bookending the block. Central Avenue between Washington and Jefferson streets will become a transit-only area, closed to auto traffic, and the new platforms will improve connectivity within the system.
Valley Metro, the City of Phoenix and construction contractor, Kiewit, are committed to maintaining business access at all times. Designating safe routes for pedestrians with access to schools, businesses and homes is a priority. In addition, Valley Metro is conducting free business assessments, and can help out with special events, customized signage, marketing, accounting and financial planning. The South Central Extension and Downtown Hub have the largest budgets for business assistance needs to date.
