The Tempe Streetcar will receive $50 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation Capital Investment Grants program, which is included in the Fiscal Year 2017 appropriations bill signed by President Trump.
“This is a significant step for the project and signals positive momentum as we move into construction this summer,” said Tempe Mayor and Valley Metro Rail Board Chair Mark Mitchell. “Tempe Streetcar is a valuable investment for our community and the region as it serves future rider demand, spurs revitalization and boosts job growth.”
In addition to the start of construction in early June, Brookville Equipment was approved by the Valley Metro Rail Board in April to build six streetcar vehicles, vehicle paint scheme options are being reviewed and design elements, including art concepts at all 14 streetcar stops, continue to advance.
Tempe Streetcar, the region’s first streetcar, will connect riders to Mill and Ash avenues in downtown Tempe, Rio Salado Parkway, Apache Boulevard and two light rail stations. Streetcar will offer another transportation option in a high demand transit corridor that includes downtown Tempe, Arizona State University, Marina Heights and the growing Rio Salado corridor, as well as some of Tempe’s oldest neighborhoods.
“We’re encouraged by today’s budget announcement,” said Scott Smith, Valley Metro CEO. “Support from our federal partners is not only a milestone for streetcar, but indicates their continuous commitment to local investments as we build a world class transit system.”
In February 2016, the Federal Transit Administration included $75 million for Tempe Streetcar in its proposal. City of Tempe and Valley Metro are optimistic the full funding grant agreement will be signed in the fall.
