Phoenix transit is entering a major milestone. Valley Metro is set to open the South Central Light Rail Extension/Downtown Phoenix Hub (SCE/DH) to ridership on June 7, providing Phoenix residents with more integrated transportation options. With a total investment of $1,34 billion, the new 8-mile line will connect downtown Phoenix south along Central and 1st Avenues to Baseline Road. This significant expansion marks the beginning of a new era in urban transportation.
Two-Track Rail Integration in Downtown Phoenix
With the new light rail extension, two separate rail lines will intersect at the main transit hub in downtown Phoenix. The A Line will run east from the Gilbert Road/Main Street station in Mesa and directly to the Downtown Hub, while the B Line will run south from the Metro Parkway station in northwest Phoenix and all the way to the Baseline Road/Central Avenue station. This integration will provide easier transfers and more route options for commuters traveling within the city and between suburbs. The expansion also includes the construction of eight new state-of-the-art stations and the addition of 14 new trains to the existing fleet. These new trains will be used to meet increased passenger demand and increase frequency.
Valley Metro Responds to Social Needs
Valley Metro’s major transportation investment addresses a significant need in the greater Phoenix area. Considering that approximately 44% of residents do not have access to a personal vehicle, the importance of reliable and accessible public transportation is clear. Valley Metro’s efforts aim to strengthen connectivity throughout Phoenix by providing a reliable transportation alternative, especially to communities that do not own a vehicle. The new South Central extension is expected to add more than 35.000 daily riders to the existing light rail system, which currently serves approximately 8.000 riders per day. This increase will play a significant role in easing the burden on public transportation in the city and encouraging more people to choose sustainable transportation options. It will also help reduce traffic congestion in the city by providing a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative for commuters. Valley Metro’s continued growth and improvement efforts in public transportation align well with the city’s broader goals of improving infrastructure and accessibility for its residents. This new line is considered a significant investment in the future of Phoenix.
