More than three miles of Valley Metro Light Rail is opening March 19 in Phoenix, marking additional progress on the system constructed by the Sundt/Stacy and Witbeck Joint Venture (SSWJV).
“This is a significant day for Phoenix,” said Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton. “The opening of the Northwest light rail extension will ease travel to school, work and entertainment. With the additional track, riders have access to a 26-mile system, making connections from Dunlap Avenue, to downtown Phoenix, Tempe and into the heart of Mesa.”
Vehicle and system testing started Nov. 18 in preparation for opening the 3.2 mile route. Testing is providing an opportunity for full inspection of operations, including track and overhead wire along with staff training.
The Northwest Extension is expected to serve approximately 5,000 riders per day. It is SSWJV’s fourth project for Valley Metro Light Rail. In 2008, the joint venture completed more than half of the original 20-mile section of the transit system (Line Section 4 and Line Section 5), plus the system’s maintenance and operations facility.
The light rail system was used by 71 million passengers in FY’15. Six extensions are planned or under construction to complete a 66-mile system by 2034. SSWJV has been awarded the next extension, another 1.9 miles that will further service in Mesa.