Valley Metro opens Central Mesa extension


Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
image description
Valley Metro

Valley Metro's 3.1-mile light-rail extension connecting riders with downtown Mesa, Ariz., began service August 22, seven months ahead of schedule. The extension includes four new stations located on Main Street at Alma School Road, Country Club Drive, Center Street and Mesa Drive.

 

“Today, a dream for many becomes reality,” said Mesa Mayor John Giles. “Light rail is rejuvenating downtown Mesa, offering residents and visitors across the Valley an opportunity to travel to new destinations and discover Mesa.”

Valley Metro and its contractor, Valley Transit Constructors, began construction of the Central Mesa light-rail extension in summer 2012. More than 700 jobs were generated annually during the project’s peak construction. Funding of the extension was provided by a $75-million grant from the Federal Transit Administration, as well as $71 million in countywide transportation tax funds and $53 million in federal air quality funds.

“Light rail has generated an $8.2-billion investment along the first 20 miles into Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa and, with this extension, we know that investment is only going to grow,” said Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton. “With Mesa’s new extension and the opening of the Northwest extension next March, more residents have greater access to jobs, education, medical appointments, shopping and entertainment.”

Valley Metro will continue to expand in the East Valley with two additional miles of service to Gilbert Road with an opening anticipated for 2018.

 

Tags: