U.S. Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff visited Tempe today to advocate for transit investment and to discuss the expansion of the Tempe streetcar route. The proposed extension will stretch from Marina Heights on Tempe Town Lake to Mesa’s Main Street. Emhoff was joined by representatives from Valley Metro, the cities of Mesa, Chandler, Phoenix, and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) as he rode a section of the line to experience the service firsthand.
“President Biden and Vice President Harris understand how important it is that everyone has access to reliable public transportation,” Emhoff stated. “This grant will improve transportation access for low-income, underrepresented, and transit-dependent populations in both Tempe and Mesa. It will enhance the quality of life for residents by providing a more convenient, frequent, one-seat ride across the Valley Metro Streetcar Corridor. And it will create good-paying jobs – including union jobs – right here in the Phoenix metro area.”
The visit underscored the importance of the $15.9 million USDOT RAISE grant awarded to the Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension Study. This grant will help complete the study for the recommended alignment, known as the Locally Preferred Alternative, which will be presented to the cities of Mesa and Tempe for consideration later this year.
Tempe Mayor Corey Woods emphasized the city’s commitment to transit. “Tempe is a strong advocate for transit, with good reasons. Our community relies on it. Businesses want it. And it brings economic development,” said Woods. “In the future, even more people will rely on streetcar, light rail, buses, and bikes for convenience and cost savings.”
The streetcar and light rail systems have significantly impacted Tempe, attracting over $208 million in private investment within a half-mile radius of streetcar stations since service began two years ago. This investment includes more than 800 new residential units, demonstrating the transformative effect of reliable public transit.
Mesa Vice Mayor Francisco Heredia highlighted the potential benefits of the streetcar extension. “The potential of this streetcar extension is immense. It will link key destinations such as Tempe Marketplace, Marina Heights, ASU, and Novus Innovation District with Mesa Riverview Mall, Sloan Park, and the Asian District. By connecting these vibrant areas, we make it easier for residents to travel, stimulate economic growth, attract businesses, and create jobs.”
Tempe’s commitment to transit is reflected in its high per capita transit ridership, the highest in the Greater Phoenix Area. In just two years, Tempe has recorded 10 million rides, with public transportation being one of the top priorities for residents, as indicated by the 2023 Community Survey.
The need for expanded transit is evident, with the Maricopa Association of Governments predicting a population growth of 70,000 people in Tempe by 2050. Approximately 58% of the residents in the study area belong to zero or one-car households, making the streetcar an essential mode of transportation.
Bhishma Dave, a recent ASU graduate, shared his positive experiences with the Tempe streetcar. “Since 2022, I’ve been regularly using the streetcar to travel from my home to college, appreciating its seamless integration into my routine. What stands out most to me is the affordability and accessibility of the streetcar system,” said Dave.
As Tempe continues to grow, the expansion of the streetcar route promises to play a crucial role in maintaining the city’s vibrant and connected community.
