After years of planning, construction, and community debate, Phoenix has officially opened its $1.34 billion South Central Extension and downtown transit hub—marking a major milestone in the city's efforts to build out its public transportation infrastructure. The 5.5-mile extension, constructed by Omaha-based Kiewit Corp., stretches south from downtown Phoenix and is expected to significantly increase ridership and improve connectivity across the Valley Metro light rail system.

Announced on June 7 by the Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority, the opening follows multiple delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, unexpected underground utility work, and a 2020 ballot initiative aimed at halting the project. Despite the challenges, the city moved forward, backed by federal grants and local funding measures.

The extension is expected to add about 8,000 daily riders to Valley Metro’s existing 35-mile light rail network, which now features two distinct lines: the north-south B Line, which includes the new extension, and the east-west A Line, which runs from downtown Phoenix to Mesa, Arizona.

In addition to rail track and service expansion, the project includes a new park-and-ride facility, a redesigned downtown transit hub, and significant pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure. Crews installed enhanced bike lanes, pedestrian walkways, tree-lined corridors, and desert-adapted landscaping along the route. Over 30 miles of underground utilities were upgraded as part of the broader infrastructure improvements. Riders will also encounter 18 art installations created largely by local artists, adding cultural vibrancy to the corridor.

Kiewit’s work also enables more frequent train service, thanks to the addition of eight new stations, which bring the total number of stops systemwide to 48. Valley Metro said the extension will relieve pressure on existing routes and improve efficiency across the network.

“The completion of this project marks an important new connection for residents and moves us closer to our goals as a sustainable and accessible city,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego in the official release. In remarks covered by ABC 15, Gallego also emphasized that light rail expansion remains a top priority for the city’s future transit planning.

The project was a long time coming. Planning for the extension began in 2012, followed by design work in 2017. Construction launched in 2019, with an original target for completion in 2023. However, as Valley Metro officials explained, the COVID-19 crisis, complex utility relocations, and strong opposition efforts delayed the opening.

A key turning point came in 2020, when a ballot initiative aimed at canceling light rail expansion—including the South Central Extension—was overwhelmingly defeated by Phoenix voters. According to Trains.com, had the measure passed, it would have severely restricted the city’s ability to pursue future rail projects. Instead, the vote signaled public support for sustained investment in transit infrastructure.

Funding for the expansion came from a combination of sources. Federal grants covered more than half of the total project cost, with the remaining dollars coming from the city’s Transportation 2050 initiative and regional Proposition 400 revenues. Both funding streams reflect a long-term commitment to improving public mobility and reducing car dependency in Phoenix.

Valley Metro officials say the new extension represents not just a transit upgrade but a broader investment in equitable access, sustainable development, and regional economic vitality. As new projects continue to move forward, including extensions in other underserved neighborhoods, the agency is positioning light rail as a backbone of the Valley's transportation future.

Originally reported by Julie Strupp in Construction Dive.