Phoenix Scores $1.2 Million Transit Oriented Development Light Rail Grant 

The City of Phoenix received a $1.2 million TOD (Transit Oriented Development) grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to help with efforts to improve access to public transit and create a transit-oriented walkable, livable and sustainable community.

These types of grants help organizations, like the City of Phoenix, plan with the community around major transportation projects to improve access to public transit and affordable housing.

Accessible public transit is critical to the economic health and growth of our City’s communities. After the completion of the South Central Downtown Hub light rail extension, scheduled for 2025, the existing light rail line – the Phoenix Light Rail Main Line –  will become a multi-line system with the downtown Phoenix area serving as the center for system transfers. The FTA awards this TOD grant for Phoenix’s Light Rail Main Line that includes the Reinvent PHX, 19North, downtown Phoenix and the 50th Street station areas.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Councilmembers expressed their support for the award: ​

“Transit oriented development has been an inextricable part of our mission to build a Phoenix that works for everyone. This new grant will help us build a more dynamic city that seamlessly connects residents to work, the grocery store, to school or their doctor’s office—all without having to rely on a car. Together, we will continue working towards a more equitable city that prioritizes mixed-use projects,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.

“This grant signifies continued progress for the City of Phoenix and for our residents,” said Phoenix Vice Mayor and Transportation, Infrastructure and Planning Subcommittee Chair Debra Stark. “Having access to a reliable and efficient transportation system helps strengthen our economy and revitalize our communities. This is a win-win not just for public transit accessibility but for all our community.”

“We are excited to receive the Transit Oriented Development grant from the FTA,” said Councilwoman Ann O’Brien. “These funds are important to the City’s continued effort to create transit-oriented communities. FTA funds are currently helping build the Metro Transit Oriented District, which is part of the Northwest Extension Phase II project.”

“The City of Phoenix has achieved a great milestone in receiving this FTA grant. This will help us reach our goals to support our communities and create access to affordable housing and mixed-use development opportunities,” said Councilwoman Laura Pastor.

“With the newly awarded TOD grant, the City of Phoenix can continue its efforts to create strategies around transit oriented development and equitable communities – congratulations to all our teams for securing these funds,” said Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington.“

This marks the 5th Transit Oriented Development (TOD) grant awarded to Phoenix under the Transit Oriented Development Planning program.

The TOD funds will be utilized with the following primary goals in mind:

• Evaluate current and projected growth and development.
• Assess affordable housing and development opportunities with emphasis on city-owned, vacant and large development sites.
• Make recommendations to streamline permitting for rental housing and other community visions.
• Educate and engage community stakeholders on the various transit-oriented development growth opportunities.

Phoenix is one of 20 cities to receive a portion of the $17.6 million awarded​ in 16 states.