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Phoenix City Council Considers Alternative Designs for Light- Rail Expansion

Phoenix City Council voted 6-2 in favor of light-rail design alternatives this Wednesday. Councilman Michael Nowakowski proposed an extension of Central Avenue that will create 4 lanes of traffic rather than 2. Council Members Gallego and Waring voted “no,” but the motion was passed regardless.

About the vote, Councilwoman Laura Pastor states, “Tonight’s vote to save light rail and preserve the South Central Project was the result of strong and courageous leadership. The hardest work is still before us however, and it is more important than ever to work together and ensure that the new community engagement process going forward is fair, equitable, honest, collaborative, and transparent.”

Councilman Daniel Valenzuela believes the expansion will serve the south Phoenix neighborhood economically. He also warns that canceling it could be detrimental to federal funding opportunities. “There is the potential the city risks losing hundreds of millions of dollars in federal money, Valenzuela states.


Valley Metro CEO Scott Smith confirmed Valenzuela’s statement, stating that if the project is canceled, the money cannot be used on alternative jobs. That’s $150 million in regional funds and $600 million in federal funds.

Residents in favor and against the proposal discussed the pros and cons of such expansion during the meeting. Valenzuela asserts that he values residents’ opinions, “…staff and Valley Metro will make an honest attempt to listen to residents to try and resolve their concerns while keeping the project on track to meet important deadlines.”