REDE gets $15m boost from federal govt, here's how it may affect Tempe and Mesa residents

RAISE grant funds will be used to complete design and environmental work for the project.

PUBLISHED JUN 26, 2024

This extension will expand the current streetcar line. (Photo courtesy city of Tempe)

Tempe, Arizona (Release): Rep. Greg Stanton has announced that Valley Metro will receive a $15,939,835 federal Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant to advance the Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension (REDE).

How will the RAISE grant affect the REDE?

The REDE project will expand the existing three-mile Valley Metro Streetcar by an additional 4.35 miles, and extend it from Tempe into Mesa. RAISE grant funds will be used to complete design and environmental work for the project.

The REDE project will expand the existing three-mile Valley Metro Streetcar by an additional 4.35 miles. (Photo courtesy Valley Metro)

What does this mean for Tempe residents?

“The extension of the streetcar from Tempe to Mesa is critical to our local economy, residents, and our environment,” Tempe Vice-Mayor Jennifer Adams said. “Residents of both cities will soon have more options to get to work, take their children to school, or enjoy a spring training game in another city. Additionally, expanded public transportation opportunities will help meet our environmental sustainability goals and ease traffic congestion. We thank Representative [Greg] Stanton and Senators [Mark] Kelly and [Kyrsten] Sinema for their efforts to secure crucial funding to improve our infrastructure, meet our community’s needs, and to set us on course for a more prosperous future.”

The REDE map showing the proposed extension. (Map courtesy Valley Metro)

What does this mean for Mesa residents?

"This RAISE grant is a transformative investment in our community’s future, readying the area for anticipated population growth and increased employment," Mesa Mayor John Giles said. "The Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension will not only enhance connectivity between Tempe and Mesa but also provide vital high-capacity transit options for historically underserved areas."

The Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension is a transit project aimed at improving connectivity in Mesa. (Graphic courtesy Valley Metro)

What is the Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension (REDE)?

The Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension is a transit project aimed at improving connectivity in Mesa, Arizona. This extension will expand the current streetcar line and is expected to bolster access to Arizona State University's Polytechnic campus, East Valley Institute of Technology, and local businesses.

What is Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE)?

Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) is a federal grant program designed to support critical infrastructure projects across the country. According to its stated goals, RAISE aims to modernize transportation systems, reduce environmental impact, and enhance accessibility for all communities, especially underserved areas.