Douglas Emhoff gives strident support to Tempe transit investment and REDE plan
Tempe, Arizona: US Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff visited Tempe to discuss transit and the expansion of the Tempe streetcar route from where it currently ends near Marina Heights on Tempe Town Lake to Mesa’s Main Street. Joined by representatives of Valley Metro, City of Mesa, City of Chandler, City of Phoenix and the Federal Transit Authority, he rode a section of the line to experience it himself.
"President Biden and Vice President Harris understand how important it is that everyone has access to reliable public transportation," Emhoff said. "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 Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension Study recently received a $15.9 million USDOT RAISE grant to help complete the study. The recommended alignment also known as the Locally Preferred Alternative, will be presented to the cities of Mesa and Tempe for consideration in late 2024.
Tempe residents placed multimodal transportation as one of their top 20 priorities in the 2023 Community Survey. Tempe has the highest per capita transit ridership of any city in the Greater Phoenix Area. In just two years, there have been 10 million rides in the city.
“Tempe is a strong advocate for transit, with good reasons. Our community relies on it. Businesses want it. And it brings economic development,” said Tempe Mayor Corey Woods. “In the future, even more people will rely on streetcar, light rail, buses and bikes for convenience and cost savings.”
More than $208 million in private investment has been made within a half mile of streetcar stations since service began two years ago, including more than 800 new residential units.
Mesa Vice Mayor Francisco Heredia said, “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 has the highest population density in the state. Maricopa Association of Governments predicts that Tempe’s population will grow by 70,000 people by 2050. Streetcar and transit will play a crucial role in maintaining a smooth flow of traffic. According to the US Census, 58% of the people in the study area are part of zero or one-car households. People will rely on streetcar and transit to get to the City of Mesa’s Cub’s Stadium, to shop at Tempe Marketplace or Riverview Mall – or to get to their job or school.
About 65% of streetcar riders are under age 25. Recent ASU graduate Bhishma Dave also shared his experiences with transit in Tempe. "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. Overall, my experience with the streetcar over the last two years has not only made my student life more manageable but has also enriched my living experience in Tempe."