Arizona Advances Phoenix-Tucson Passenger Rail Project with Federal Approval
Arizona is one step closer to establishing a new passenger rail line connecting Phoenix and Tucson, a project poised to reshape transportation and economic opportunities across the state. The Federal Railroad Administration recently approved the Arizona Department of Transportation’s (ADOT) initial submissions for the Corridor Identification and Development Program, paving the way for a detailed service development plan.
The approval signifies the completion of the program’s first phase, which included establishing a comprehensive scope, schedule, and budget for outlining the key elements needed to launch the passenger rail service. Work on the detailed Service Development Plan is anticipated to begin following the approval of a federal grant, expected in the coming weeks.
Economic Boost and Enhanced Mobility
According to a statement from ADOT Director Jennifer Toth, “passenger rail connecting the Phoenix and Tucson areas is an important addition to transportation options for Arizona.” She further emphasized the potential for the project to stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities, while simultaneously improving accessibility for residents in both urban and rural communities along the 160-mile corridor extending between Tucson and Buckeye.
What the Service Development Plan Will Entail
State officials estimate the completion of the Service Development Plan will take between two and three years. The plan will be a comprehensive blueprint, addressing several critical aspects of the proposed rail line, including:
- Station Placement: Identifying the optimal number and location of stations based on detailed travel data analysis, technical feasibility, and convenient access to key destinations like jobs, schools, and airports.
- Infrastructure Needs: Determining necessary infrastructure improvements, such as the construction of additional track or the development of new maintenance facilities.
- Financial Projections: Forecasting ridership and revenues, estimating capital and maintenance costs, and outlining a phased implementation strategy, including projected travel time and the number of trips.
Project Background and Funding
The proposed Phoenix-Tucson passenger rail corridor was selected for inclusion in the Corridor Identification and Development Program in late 2023. ADOT has allocated a budget of $10.6 million to complete the Service Development Plan, demonstrating the state’s commitment to the project.
For more detailed information about the project, visit azdot.gov/AZRailStudy.
This project represents a significant investment in Arizona’s future, promising to modernize transportation infrastructure and unlock new opportunities for economic development and community connectivity.
