Modern Streetcars Possible in Tempe corridor September 7th, 2010
METRO and the cities of Tempe and Chandler have been working together to analyze transit options to better connect the southeast Valley. The Tempe South High-Capacity Transit Study, funded by the Year 2000 Proposition 400, has evaluated a range of transit technologies and potential north-south alignments from the light rail starter line in Tempe since the study’s inception in 2007. The transit option selected will improve mobility in this city and region, support future growth and work in complement with the existing transit network.
Modern streetcar in the Mill Avenue corridor — generally south from downtown Tempe to Route 60 — has been analyzed and is becoming a reasonable option for this extension and community. Modern streetcars have the ability to increase transit ridership in this corridor, support the growing demand of this area and its special events as well as stimulate development and revitalization of downtown Tempe and its neighborhoods.
The study is moving toward a final Locally Preferred Alternative. Please share your input on this project. METRO and the partnering cities will conduct a public input process sharing the study findings this fall. The process will include a public meeting, group presentations and online comments. Visit www.metrolightrail.org/tempesouth or contact Carla Kahn at 602-744-5552 or ckahn@metrolightrail.org to learn more about the findings and ways to provide your input.
