Recently, I read a blog post titled, “Light rail loses its way. “ In that post, we read about potential pitfalls of the extension as well as suggestions for alternatives. One thing that seems to resonate with just about everyone is the economic development opportunities that are available along certain routes.
“Instead of moving through existing city streets and spurring economic development like the current line, the western extension is set to move along I-10 in the middle of the freeway.” – DowntownPhoenix blogger:
Look at the big argument for the Tempe Streetcar, a light rail extension heading south of the Mill Avenue District in Tempe. A big part of that decision appears to have been made based on the potential for economic development along the route. Yeah, others are saying it may or may not happen and some people are saying they would prefer a Rio Salado alignment but most people can agree that a good alignment involves development along the line and near the stations.
** Update ** For another opinion, see the post from the Arizona Rail Passenger Association titled “ METRO should be on Thomas, not I-10.”
What do other Phoenix residents think of the west valley extension?
If you have an opinion about the I-10 West extension, you have a chance to voice your opinion on March 2nd. The details are in the following METRO release:
Public meeting set to review transit mode and route recommendation for I-10 West corridor
PHOENIX, AZ — Community input is being sought on the results of the Phoenix West High-Capacity Transit Study that, for the past three years, has evaluated enhanced transit service options between central Phoenix and the West Valley. The public meeting is set for:
Wednesday, March 2
6 – 8 p.m., presentation at 6:30 p.m.
Isaac Middle School Cafeteria
3402 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix
Attendance is highly encouraged as METRO will review study findings that include a recommendation for light rail to travel between downtown Phoenix, the State Capitol area and the I-10 West freeway to approximately 79th Avenue. Greater specifics on the route and study process will be provided, followed by an opportunity for questions and comments.
The Phoenix West study was initiated in 2007 and has evaluated a range of transit modes and potential east-west alignments that would connect the light rail starter line to the West Valley. The project team has conducted detailed analysis on ridership, land use, economic development, costs, traffic and utility impacts. The transit project being recommended is the highest performing alternative from this evaluation and would help improve regional mobility, support local neighborhoods and stimulate economic development opportunities.
For more information on the Phoenix West study, visit www.metrolightrail.org/phoenixwest.
METRO absolutely needs to repeat the success of its Red Line trains (the existing trains follow the former Red Line bus alignment) and build a Green Line route. The #29 bus on Thomas has the highest ridership, just like the former Red Line buses did.
Putting trolleys in the middle of Highway 10 is pointless — experience at Chris-Town Station (pardon me, “Montebello Avenue and 19th Avenue”) shows drivers already in their cars will not transfer to a train to ride a few miles.
METRO, please learn from your successes and failures, and repeat your excellent Central Avenue train on Thomas Road.
— William Lindley, Director, Arizona Rail Passenger Association
http://www.azrail.org/2011/metro-should-be-on-thomas-not-i-10/
Bill, Thanks for stopping by.
I updated the post and added a link to your article.
I have always thought it would be a good Idea to have a passenger train running from Phoenix to Tucson for all of the people that have to travel everyday to work. I would not put it in the middle of I10 though.