Phoenix voters defeated Proposition 105 Tuesday, a measure that would have prohibited the city from spending money on the development, construction, expansion, or improvement of light-rail transit.
The ballot measure also would have returned federal dollars already pledged to expand the regional transit system.
The vote is the fourth time voters in America’s fifth-largest city have shown their support of light-rail since 2000.
“Residents broke records when they showed up in mass and declared they want robust transportation options and investment in our parks, libraries, and city services,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said on Twitter. “Light-rail expansion is not stopping – not today, not tomorrow.”
The 28-mile Valley Metro system transports more than 16 million riders annually, approximately 45,000 passengers daily. Economic investment around the system is estimated to be $11 billion.
The “no” vote means Valley Metro can continue to work on projects currently underway. These projects include:
The 10-mile Capitol/I-10 West light-rail extension that will connect the existing Valley Metro Rail system in downtown Phoenix to the 79th Avenue park-and-ride.
The South Central Extension/Downtown Hub will connect the light-rail system in downtown Phoenix and operate south to Baseline Road. The project includes public art, new stations, and a hub downtown.
Community input is shaping the design plans for the Northwest Extension Phase II. Crews are conducting infrastructure inspections and locating and evaluating underground utilities.
After the vote, Paul P. Skoutelas, American Public Transportation Association president and CEO, issued a statement.
“Today was a monumental day at the ballot box for public transportation in Phoenix, Ariz.,” Skoutelas said, “Congratulations to the forward-thinking residents of Phoenix, who voted to ensure that their light-rail system can expand to better serve the transit needs of a rapidly growing city looking to the future. Phoenix made it resoundingly clear to the naysayers that light-rail is essential to their economy and their community.”
Skoutelas also applauded Gallego and Valley Metro CEO Scott Smith for their work expanding mobility options for Phoenix.
Valley Metro’s business assistance program, related to the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub, has allocated its largest budget to technical, financial and marketing assistance programs.