Phoenix’s METRO Light Rail Takes Flight
Everyone knows that Phoenix has a huge sprawl problem. But now transit-oriented development is on the upswing in this Sun Belt metropolis. In December, the Phoenix region opened one of the most ambitious transit projects in recent U.S. history: a 20-mile light rail line with 28 stops serving three cities (Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa). Future plans include an extension within three years, with several new corridors being studied.
The Valley Metro vehicles are handsome and comfortable, and thus far ridership has far exceeded initial projections -- with as many as 40,000 riders per day, compared to the expected 25,000. Each station features amenities and art installations. In addition, with many folks using the light rail as an intermodal step in their commutes, bicycles are welcome aboard.
The film on the Phoenix Metro looks great. Hopefully people will look at the interview with Enrique Penalosa and see that cities have opportunities to build transportation systems that benefit everyone--especially children--who often can't go out into their communities because of traffic problems.
This video is exactly what I was looking to show to light rail haters in Virginia about the benefits that LRT can bring to a city
(hey, I notice that when embedding the video in my blog, it's not showing up for some reason)
Great job on the video! The light rail system is a great addition to the city of Phoenix! Unfortunately, we still have our share of people who post negative comments on message boards of the new mode of transportation, and the same people get really fired up talking about the honor system in place for fares.
Having said that, our transit agency says the first several months of light rail operation have been a success in terms of passengers numbers with more people riding than projected. Personally, I enjoy using the train daily to get around town. The best part is I use my car maybe once a month. I save money on gas, I get more exercise, and I continue to learn a great deal about Central Phoenix.
Great Film! Go Light Rail! All my Phoenix friends love it! Let me know if you go again and I will hook you up with some nice folks to interview.