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The Source for Public Transportation News and Analysis November 30, 2012
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Phoenix Receives $75 Million Federal Grant for Light Rail Extension

DOT Secretary Ray LaHood and FTA Administrator Peter M. Rogoff recently visited Mesa, AZ, to announce the release of $75 million in FTA money to help fund Valley Metro’s 3.1-mile light rail extension into downtown Mesa.

“People are riding light rail, Bus Rapid Transit, and streetcars because they want options,” LaHood said. “With this light rail project, you’ve joined together with your vision and you are creating jobs as you build and run the system, leaving behind something valuable for the next generation.”

Mesa Mayor Scott Smith welcomed the federal dignitaries, including Rep. Ed Pastor (D-AZ), at an event held near the site of a future light rail station, just north of the Mesa Arts Center at Main and Center streets. The Central Mesa extension will expand light rail service from Sycamore and Main streets to Mesa Drive, adding four light rail stations and a park-and-ride lot.

“We appreciate the support of our federal partners,” said Steve Banta, Valley Metro chief executive officer. “They have seen the success of our transit system and are willing to support its growth for the benefit of our riders and local economy.”

The light rail system reported average weekday ridership of almost 50,000 in September, 3.7 percent above the same month in 2011.

The expansion, which should begin service in late 2015, is anticipated to serve nearly 10,000 daily riders. The total cost of the extension—approximately $200 million—will come from federal sources and the regional half-cent countywide sales tax dedicated to fund a regional transit system in Maricopa County.

 

DOT Secretary Ray LaHood signs the funding agreement for Valley Metro. Steve Banta, CEO of the agency, is in the background.

 

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