Skip to Content
Streetsblog San Francisco home
Log In
Light Rail

Streetfilms: A Bright Beginning for Phoenix Light Rail

1:18 PM PDT on June 18, 2009

Everyone knows that Phoenix has a huge sprawl problem. But now transit-oriented development is on the upswing in this Sun Belt metropolis. In
December, the Phoenix region opened one of the most ambitious transit projects
in recent U.S. history: a 20-mile light rail line with 28 stops
serving three cities (Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa). Future plans include an extension within three years, with several new corridors being studied. 

The Valley Metro
vehicles are handsome and comfortable, and thus far ridership has far exceeded initial projections -- with as many as 40,000 riders per day, compared to the expected 25,000. Each station features amenities and art installations. In addition, with many folks using the light rail as an intermodal
step in their commutes, bicycles
are welcome aboard. 

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog San Francisco

Active Towns: a Deep Dive into Bay Area Advocacy

Streetsblog San Francisco editor Roger Rudick and advocate Luke Bornheimer are guests on the latest "Active Towns" podcast with John Simmerman

December 6, 2023

Valencia Merchants Stage Protest in Center-Running Bike Lane

Remember when this bike lane was pitched as being more acceptable for small business owners?

December 6, 2023
See all posts