Streetcar is a critical addition to developing a total transit network in this region. It supports the existing transit system and community with its ability to attract new riders, increase mobility, strengthen existing neighborhoods and create sustainable development.
Modern streetcar vehicles operate on tracks, typically mixed with automobile traffic, and are powered by overhead power lines. They differ from light rail vehicles in their smaller vehicle size and single-car operation. Stops are also more simple and frequent than light rail.
The project will be built by 2016 using a mix of regional Proposition 400 funds and federal grant dollars. City of Tempe is responsible for the operating funds.
Project Status
In 2011, METRO and the City of Tempe met frequently with a Community Working Group, made up of residents and business owners along the proposed line, to further define the project. The group, guided by the project’s technical team, reviewed and debated various options for streetcar track and stop locations along Mill and Ash Avenues. The group’s recommendations for how and where streetcar will travel and stop were approved by Tempe City Council.
The Environmental Assessment (EA) and preparation of federal grant applications has also begun. The EA will evaluate the project’s potential impacts on a variety of factors including noise and vibration, air and water quality, traffic and parking and historic and archaeological resources. The draft EA and comment form can be viewed online at: www.metrolightrail.org/tempestreetcar
The Tempe Streetcar is a result of a three-year study that evaluated high-capacity transit improvements to support Tempe and Chandler and enhance the existing, regional transit network. In addition to streetcar, the study also called for a bus rapid transit line on Rural Road to Chandler; it will be implemented as funding becomes available.
The project goals for the then-named Tempe South study were to:
- Improve mobility
- Develop an efficient, affordable transportation system
- Accommodate future demand
- Support development goals and strategies
- Develop a transportation system that provides connectivity to/from neighborhoods, employment, and recreational opportunities
This project is contained within the Maricopa Association of Governments’ (MAG) Regional Transportation Plan as part of the 57 miles of high-capacity transit corridors to be implemented by 2031. It is also in compliance with the requirements of the federal transit planning process needed to qualify for federal funds that can support the building of this project.
In 2011, METRO, working closely with the city of Tempe, convened a community working group to help technical staff define the vehicle, stop locations and street configuration of the Tempe Streetcar. In addition to the working group, staff will regularly provide opportunities for the public share their input on the project’s development.
- PowerPoint Presentation from Jan. 24, 2011
- PowerPoint Presentation from Feb. 28, 2011
- PowerPoint Presentation from April 25, 2011
- PowerPoint Presentation from May 23, 2011
- PowerPoint Presentation from June 27, 2011
- PowerPoint Presentation from July 25, 2011
- Proposed Design Alternative 1
- Proposed Design Alternative 2
- Proposed Design Alternative 3
- Current Conditions
- Utilities
- Stop Locations Design 1
- Stop Locations Design 2
- Stop Locations Design 3
- Stop Locations Design 4
- Stop Locations Design 5
- Stop Locations Design 6
- Stop Locations Design 7
- Stop Locations Design 8
- Stop Locations Design 9
- Stop Locations Design 10
- Stop Locations Design 11