Public Meeting in Surprise on Express Route 571

PHOENIX, AZ – Valley Metro is proposing to add one round trip to the Surprise Express Route 571, which travels from Dysart and Bell Road to the downtown Phoenix area and State Capitol. Schedule adjustments are also included with this change. A public meeting is being held to discuss the service enhancement, which would go into effect on July 22, 2013. Valley Metro staff will be available to take comments and answer questions.

MEETING INFO
Date:  Wednesday, May 29
Time: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (presentation begins at 6:30 p.m.)
Location: Surprise City Hall, Overflow Room
16000 N. Civic Center Plaza, Surprise

Residents who cannot attend the meeting can also send comments in the following ways:

Email: csr@valleymetro.org
Phone: 602.253.5000
Mail:  Valley Metro
      Attn: Cindy Scally
      4600 E. Washington, Ste. 101
      Phoenix, AZ 85034

For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact Helen Romesburg at hromesburg@valleymetro.org.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of light rail. In calendar year 2012, total ridership for the system was 72.5 million passengers—an increase of 3.8 percent over 2011. The first 20 miles of light rail opened December 2008. Six light rail extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Two Boards of Directors set the policy direction for the agency with the intent of advancing the regional public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.

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Valley Metro Hosts Meeting on Capitol I-10/West Phoenix Light Rail Extension

PHOENIX, AZ – Valley Metro will hold a public meeting to discuss the Capitol/I-10 West light rail extension. The public is invited to learn more about the environmental process being conducted to analyze ridership, land use, economic development, traffic and utility impacts, noise and vibration, historical properties and visual concerns. Staff will be available to answer questions.

MEETING INFO
Date:  Thursday, May 23
Time: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (presentation begins at 6:30 p.m.)
Location: Isaac Middle School Gymnasium
    3402 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix (map)
           
For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact Sonya Pastor La Sota at 602-744-5584/TTY 602-251-2039 or spastor@valleymetro.org. For more information, go to valleymetro.org/capitolwest. 

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of light rail. In calendar year 2012, total ridership for the system was 72.5 million passengers—an increase of 3.8 percent over 2011. The first 20 miles of light rail opened December 2008. Six light rail extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Two Boards of Directors set the policy direction for the agency with the intent of advancing the regional public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.

Public Meeting to Provide Project Update on Tempe Streetcar

PHOENIX, AZ – Valley Metro and the city of Tempe invite you to attend a project update meeting to review two revised/new route options for the 2.6-mile Tempe Streetcar project. Valley Metro and city staff will be available to take your comments and answer questions.

The Federal Transit Administration has continued to express interest in the streetcar project with slight modifications to the route to better fit the new federal funding criteria. The modified project would continue to include a one-mile downtown loop on Mill and Ash Avenues and south to Apache Boulevard. The two new route options being explored are:
• Rio Salado Parkway from approximately Packard Drive west to Mill Avenue, downtown loop to Apache Boulevard and east to Rural Road
• Downtown loop to Apache Boulevard, east to Terrace Road

MEETING INFORMATION

Date: Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Time: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Location: Tempe Transportation Center
    Don Cassano Room
    200 E. Fifth Street, Tempe (map)

For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact Lisa Procknow Saldin at 602-495-8213/TTY 602-251-2039 or lsaldin@valleymetro.org.  Additional project information is available on the Valley Metro website at www.valleymetro.org/tempestreetcar.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of light rail. In calendar year 2012, total ridership for the system was 72.5 million passengers—an increase of 3.8 percent over 2011. The first 20 miles of light rail opened December 2008. Six light rail extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Two Boards of Directors set the policy direction for the agency with the intent of advancing the regional public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.

Valley Metro Hosts Meeting on West Phoenix / Central Glendale Transit Study

PHOENIX, AZ – Valley Metro is hosting an informational public meeting to kick off the West Phoenix / Central Glendale Alternative Analysis. This is a study of options for providing enhanced transit service to the West Phoenix / Central Glendale area. The study area is defined as 19th Avenue to the east, Loop 101 to the west, Northern Avenue to the north and Camelback Road to the south. The study area includes major transportation corridors and activity centers (such as Grand Canyon University and downtown Glendale).

MEETING INFO

Date: Thursday, May 16
Time: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (6:30 p.m. presentation)
Location: Grand Canyon University, Ethington Theatre
    3300 W. Camelback Road (map)
           
Staff will be available at the public meeting to answer questions. For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact Sonya Pastor La Sota at 602-744-5584/TTY 602-251-2039 or spastor@valleymetro.org. For more information, go to valleymetro.org/glendale.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of light rail. In calendar year 2012, total ridership for the system was 72.5 million passengers—an increase of 3.8 percent over 2011. The first 20 miles of light rail opened December 2008. Six light rail extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Two Boards of Directors set the policy direction for the agency with the intent of advancing the regional public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.

Valley Metro Commits to Local Purchasing Priority

PHOENIX, AZ – Valley Metro is implementing a Buy Local Program to purchase more goods and services locally with small businesses in Maricopa County.  This new program will give preference to locally-owned, small business enterprises on non-federally funded “small purchases” of $50,000 or less.  On an annual basis, this program could result in keeping more than $4 million dollars in the metro Phoenix business community.

“We have the privilege of building and operating transit in a community with a wide variety of quality small businesses,” said Valley Metro CEO Steve Banta.  “They are assets to our community and our existing and future transit routes.  Their success is our success.”

Modeled after programs implemented by cities within the region, Valley Metro’s small purchase needs will be shared initially with businesses in the county using the State’s Procure AZ database.  If there is insufficient competition from the region’s small business community, request for quotes will be solicited from businesses throughout Arizona.

“Valley Metro’s commitment to building a stronger economy here is admirable,” said Local First Arizona Executive Director Kimber Lanning.  “The money they spend with local business will recirculate in the community up to three times more than if they spent that money with a non-local business.  The local companies winning contracts will then, in turn, have a local graphic designer, web developer or accountant, and so money changes hands within the region and creates added value.  We applaud Valley Metro for leading the way to a more sustainable economy.”

Since July 2012, Valley Metro has spent more than $4 million on small purchases (of $50,000 or less, using non-federal funds), including office supplies, equipment rentals, printing, uniforms and bike racks.  Valley Metro has done business with local companies in years past; this new program will better ensure that all of these dollars stay within the state.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of light rail. In calendar year 2012, total ridership for the system was 72.5 million passengers—an increase of 3.8 percent over 2011. The first 20 miles of light rail opened December 2008. Six light rail extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Two Boards of Directors set the policy direction for the agency with the intent of advancing the regional public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.

Public Meeting for West Phoenix / Central Glendale Transit Corridor Study

PHOENIX, AZ – Valley Metro is hosting an informational public meeting in the city of Glendale to kick off the West Phoenix / Central Glendale Alternatives Analysis.

Monday, May 6, 2013
6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (6:30 p.m. presentation)
Glendale Civic Center
Sapphire Room
5750 W. Glenn Dr., Glendale

The Alternatives Analysis is a study of options for providing enhanced transit service to the West Phoenix / Central Glendale area. The study area is defined as 19th Avenue to the east, Loop 101 to the west, Northern Avenue to the north and Camelback Road to the south. The study area includes major transportation corridors and activity centers (such as Grand Canyon University and downtown Glendale).

Staff will be available to answer questions. For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact Sonya Pastor La Sota at 602-744-5584/TTY 602-251-2039 or spastor@valleymetro.org. For more information, go to valleymetro.org/glendale.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of light rail. In calendar year 2012, total ridership for the system was 72.5 million passengers—an increase of 3.8 percent over 2011. The first 20 miles of light rail opened December 2008. Six light rail extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Two Boards of Directors set the policy direction for the agency with the intent of advancing the regional public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.

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McClintock High Student Helps Unveil His Winning Transit Wrap Artwork

PHOENIX, AZ – High school art students from across the Valley unleashed their creativity for a chance to have their artwork featured on a bus and light rail train for an entire year. This is the first year that a student-designed transit wrap is featured on a light rail train. More than 260 students entered Valley Metro’s 13th annual Design a Transit Wrap contest. The 2013 winner is Richard Reid, a senior at McClintock High School in Tempe. His design, titled “Do the Ride Thing” will be unveiled at ceremony on Tuesday, April 30.

Richard Reid, McClintock High School Senior

“High school students today place a very high value on public transit,” said Valley Metro CEO Steve Banta. “This student-inspired bus wrap is one way for us to connect to a younger generation and show our appreciation for their commitment to using transit.” The wrap will remain on the bus and train for one year.

This year’s judging panel was made up of representatives from cities, school districts, businesses and Valley Metro staff. Reid’s design was chosen because the judges loved the slogan “Do the Ride Thing” and its play on the popular phrase “do the right thing.”

“By taking transit, riders are doing the right thing,” said Howard Steere, Valley Metro Community Relations Manager. “They are saving money, using their time more efficiently and helping the environment by reducing the amount of pollutants emitted into the air by cars. Richard’s design captured that message wonderfully.”

Valley Metro unveiled the new artwork during a lunchtime ceremony at McClintock High School.

The Design a Transit Wrap contest is part of a larger effort to spread awareness about the benefits of public transit. Click here for more information on Valley Metro’s education programs.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of light rail. In calendar year 2012, total ridership for the system was 72.5 million passengers—an increase of 3.8 percent over 2011. The first 20 miles of light rail opened December 2008. Six light rail extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Two Boards of Directors set the policy direction for the agency with the intent of advancing the regional public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.

METRO Max Shop to Win Night Offers Great Prizes, Supports Local Business

PHOENIX, AZ – Let’s rally around small businesses during light rail construction along 19th Avenue! Valley residents can enjoy the benefits of shopping local through METRO Max Rewards. METRO Max is a discounts program that offers deals for shopping at businesses along the future light rail line on 19th Avenue between Dunlap and Bethany Home. Cardholders have access to BOGO deals, discounts and special social media offers.

On Friday, April 26, Valley Metro will host a METRO Max kick-off celebration with the first ever Shop to Win family night. The community is invited to take part for a chance to win these great prizes:

• iPad mini courtesy of Walmart #2113
• $500 Landis Cyclery gift card (enough to purchase two bicycles)
• Hotel stays from the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown and Hotel Palomar Phoenix
• US Airways Center tickets
• One of two $100 JC Penney gift cards
• Transit passes for an entire year
• And more!

Event Details

Who: Valley Metro and METRO Max businesses along 19th Avenue

What: Shop to Win Night: Check in to receive a METRO Max discount card and a map of participating businesses. Catch a free trolley or walk to as many restaurants and shops as possible before 7:30 p.m. Provide a receipt for each purchase dated April 26 for a raffle ticket and a chance to win prizes. Trolleys run every 15-20 minutes. This is a family-friendly event with light refreshments, music from local radio stations and face painting.

When: Friday, April 26, 4 - 8 p.m. Raffle winners will be drawn at 7:45 p.m.

Where: Northeast corner of 19th Avenue and Northern (Albertson’s parking lot). All participants must check in at this location.

The Northwest Extension will extend light rail northbound on 19th Avenue from Montebello to Dunlap Avenue and is expected to open by-early 2016. For more information, go to valleymetro.org/northwest or contact Carla Kahn, Community Outreach Coordinator, at 602-744-5552 or ckahn@valleymetro.org.
 
About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Celebrate Valley Bike Month with Bike to the Ballpark

PHOENIX, AZ – Join Valley Metro, Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton and the Arizona Diamondbacks for Bike to the Ballpark, a family-friendly bike ride to celebrate Valley Bike Month. The ride is free and open to the public, perfect for beginners. 

WHO: Valley Metro, Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton, Arizona Diamondbacks and cyclists of all ages

WHAT: Free escorted 3.5 mile bike ride with the Mayor and Arizona Diamondbacks organist Bobby Freeman. The ride starts at Steele Indian School Park and ends at Chase Field. After the ride, cyclists can enjoy lunch downtown and take in the Diamondbacks vs. Dodgers game. Discounted game tickets are available and a portion of proceeds will benefit valley bike programs.

WHEN: Sunday, April 14, 2013
9 a.m. to 11 a.m. – Check-in and Green Expo
11 a.m. – Ride begins
1:10 p.m. – Diamondbacks game begins
         
WHERE: Ride begins at Steele Indian School Park (300 E. Indian School Road) and ends at Chase Field. Click here for a map.

INFO:  Riders can take part in the Green Expo with free face painting, food trucks, great vendors, prize drawings and tours of PHX Renews community gardens. The first 300 registered participants to arrive will get a free Valley Bike Month t-shirts. Helmets are required. Bottles of water will not be provided.  Riders should bring their own refillable water container. For more
information, visit ShareTheRide.com.

About Valley Bike Month: Valley Bike Month held each year to bring attention to bicycling as a fun, inexpensive and healthy transportation method. Cities, bike clubs and businesses work together to promote bicycling for commuting and for fun.  Encouraging bicycling can reduce drive-alone miles and trips. Sponsors include the Arizona Departments of Environmental Quality and Transportation, Maricopa Association of Governments, and Maricopa County Air Quality Department. Learn more at ShareTheRide.com.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

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HPA Issued for Monday, April 8

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is issuing a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Monday, April 8 for PM-10, or particulate matter 10-microns or less in size.

This HPA is being issued because a lengthy period of strong, gusty winds is expected throughout the region on Monday which will create a high risk for dense dust and unhealthy PM-10 concentrations in the air. 

“ADEQ meteorologists are forecasting a high risk of blowing dust due to high winds and minimal chances of rain throughout the region,” said ADEQ Air Quality Division Director Eric Massey.  “We are asking everyone who generates dust to take extra precautions to minimize emissions throughout the event.”

As a result, the Maricopa County Air Quality Department is enforcing the mandatory “No Burn Day” restriction for Maricopa County from midnight to midnight Monday. Businesses conducting dust-generating operations are urged to be vigilant in their dust control measures.

This HPA also includes the following restrictions:

Contractors cannot use leaf blowers on governmental properties on HPA days.

Open burning and residential fireplace burning is restricted in Maricopa County during a PM-10 HPA. This includes individuals and businesses which have burn permits for open burning.

Off-highway vehicles are prohibited from being used during a PM-10 HPA.

ADEQ recommends that children and adults with respiratory problems avoid outdoor activities on Monday and suggests the general public limit outdoor activity throughout the day.

Valley Metro requests employers activate their HPA Plan. Residents and employers are asked to use these tips to help make the air healthier to breathe:

Eliminate wood burning in fireplaces, stoves, chimineas and outdoor fire pits.
Drive as little as possible: car pool, use public transit or telecommute. Click here to find a carpool partner or seat in a vanpool.
Avoid using leaf blowers.
Avoid activities that generate dust, such as driving on dirt roads.

PARTICULATE MATTER BACKGROUND:  State and county agencies measure PM-10 and PM-2.5 which are extremely small solid particles and liquid droplets found circulating in the air.  PM, or particulate matter, comes from either combustion (cars, industry, woodburning) or dust stirred up into the air. High levels of PM are typically created when the air is especially stagnant or especially windy.

PM-10 stands for particulate matter measuring 10 microns or less.  PM-2.5 stands for particulate matter measuring 2.5 microns or less.  To put this in perspective, one strand of human hair is 70-100 microns in size. 

Diamondbacks Opening Day is April 1

PHOENIX, AZ – It’s time to play ball! The Arizona Diamondbacks’ home opener is on Monday, April 1 at 7:10 p.m. Historically, opening day is one of the busiest days of the year for light rail service as fans choose to avoid downtown parking and additional traffic around Chase Field. Riders should expect larger crowds at stations and higher than average ridership on game day. To accommodate large game-day crowds, Valley Metro will provide extra light rail trains before and after the game.

Light rail is a convenient, affordable transit option for fans. An All-Day pass costs only $4.00, much less than most parking garages. Passes can be purchased ahead of time at any light rail station, at one of Valley Metro’s retail partners or by clicking here. 

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent. Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

Regular Service on Cesar Chavez Observed Holiday

Local bus, Express, RAPID and light rail will operate a normal weekday schedule on Cesar Chavez Day (observed) which is Monday, April 1. Click here for more schedule information.

Fare Vending Machines Added to LINK Routes

Valley Metro Adds New Fare Vending Machines on LINK Routes

PHOENIX, AZ – Purchasing fares before riding transit is now easier, quicker and more convenient for bus passengers in the East Valley. Riders on the Main Street LINK, Arizona Avenue/Country Club Drive LINK, and bus routes 40 and 112 have an option to purchase fares prior to boarding bus and rail.

“Purchasing fares in advance saves time and money for our passengers,” said Steve Banta, Valley Metro CEO. “Adding new fare vending machines is not only convenient, it allows the freedom of being able to purchase the pass that best meets their travel needs.”

Sixteen new fare vending machines, similar to the machines riders use at Valley Metro light rail stations, are now operating at a dozen LINK stations along Main Street and Arizona Avenue/Country Club Drive. LINK bus service connects directly to Valley Metro light rail service at Sycamore Station in Mesa and a transit pass allows riders to board both systems.

Fare vending machines will offer regular and Reduced All-Day, 7-day, 15-day, and 31-day passes at the LINK stations listed below:

• Center/Main
• Juanita/Country Club
• Broadway/Country Club
• Southern/Country Club
• San Angelo/Country Club
• Elliot/Arizona Ave
• Warner/Arizona Ave
• Ray/Arizona Ave
• Chandler/Arizona Ave
• Pecos/Arizona Ave
• Germann/Arizona Ave
• Chandler Regional Park-and-Ride

In the near future, riders can purchase fares using the fare vending machines at the following transit centers: West Mesa Park-and-Ride, Superstition Springs Transit Center and the Chandler Fashion Square Fashion CenterFares purchased at fare vending machines must be activated before use.

Passes that are purchased from a fare vending machine are valid for use until activated. Passes can be activated at the time of purchase by choosing the “activate” option on the machine, dipping the pass into the bus farebox or placing up to the activation slot on the fare vending machine.

Local bus, light rail and LINK share the same fare structure and pass types. Passes can be purchased from light rail, LINK or transit center fare vending machines, online or at nearly 700 valleywide retail locations. Visit valleymetro.org for a complete list.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of Valley Metro light rail. In calendar year 2012, total ridership for the system was 72.5 million passengers—an increase of 3.8 percent over 2011. The first 20 miles of light rail opened December 2008. Six light rail extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments set the policy direction for the agency with the intent of advancing the regional public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting ValleyMetro.org.

April is Valley Bike Month!

PHOENIX, AZ – Grab your helmets and get ready to ride! April is Valley Bike Month featuring four weeks packed with bicycling events, contests and safety education. The purpose of Valley Bike Month is to bring attention to bicycling as a fun, healthy, inexpensive and green way to commute. 

Nearly four percent of commuters bike to work at least once a week. Valley Metro transports more than 2.6 million bicycles on buses and light rail trains every year. More people are starting to recognize the benefits of bicycling.

Benefits of Biking

• Environmental benefits – avoiding 10 miles of driving every week would eliminate more than 500 pounds of carbon dioxide annually (WorldWatch Institute).
• Health benefits – cycling as little as 20 miles a week can cut your risk of heart disease in half (Medical News Today). 
• Time-saver – biking to work or to a park-and-ride means one less gym trip and no traffic jams. 
• Money-saver – cyclists can save up to $20 a day by biking (source: AAA cost per mile and average daily commute).

Valley Bike Month Events

Click here for a complete listing of all Valley Bike Month events.

Bike to the Ballpark

Sunday, April 14
9 a.m. – Registration
11 a.m. – Ride begins
Join Mayor Greg Stanton for a family-friendly bike ride from Steele Indian School Park to Chase Field. Riders will get a free t-shirt and the option to buy discounted tickets to the D-backs vs. Dodgers game. Click here for more info.

Bike to Work and School Day

Wednesday, April 17
Walk to bike or school! Group events will take place Valley-wide.

Valley Bike Month Contest

April 1-30
Ride your bike for work, play or attend a biking event for a chance to win great prizes! Visit ShareTheRide.com to register, track your trips, and enter prize drawings.

Bike Safety and Education

April 1-30
Learn about bike safety at one of several bike safety events! Visit ValleyMetro.org for more information.

About Valley Bike Month: Valley Bike Month is held each year to bring attention to bicycling as a fun, inexpensive and safe transportation method. Cities, bike clubs and Trip Reduction Program employers work together to promote bicycling for commuting and for fun.  Encouraging bicycling can reduce drive-alone miles and trips. Sponsors include the Arizona Departments of Environmental Quality and Transportation, Maricopa Association of Governments, and Maricopa County Air Quality Department.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting ValleyMetro.org.

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Fountain Hills Transit Survey – Public Input Needed

PHOENIX, AZ — Valley Metro and the Town of Fountain Hills are partnering to conduct a survey to determine transit needs in the local community. As part of a comprehensive transit study, a public survey will help identify:

• Transit services that may connect to the regional system
• Transit ridership market in Fountain Hills
• Potential transit mode alternatives

Public input will help Town officials make informed decisions on how to invest in efficient and effective transit service for the local community. The survey must be completed by March 31 and can be found at ValleyMetro.org. Click here to take the survey.

Incorporating the survey results, service options will be developed including:

• Review of transit service options: neighborhood circulator, local and express bus, Dial-a-Ride services, and vanpools
• Recommendations for hours of operation and amount of service
• Cost estimates for service options
• Potential funding sources

As part of the final planning study, Valley Metro will provide the Town with service recommendations, potential funding options and phasing. The planning study will present transit recommendations as long-term and short-term investments. 

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting ValleyMetro.org.

Valley Metro Asking Students to Design Bus and Light Rail Train Artwork

PHOENIX, AZ – Calling all high school students with a flair for art and an interest in displaying their artwork on a Valley Metro bus and light rail train! Valley Metro is kicking off the 13th annual Design a Transit Wrap contest. Here is how students can enter: 

1. Download the contest flyer, art template and application.
2. Use the art template to create an original design.
3. All entries should feature a positive transit message.
4. Submit artwork by February 15, 2013.

The Design a Transit Wrap contest is part of a larger effort to spread awareness about the benefits of public transit. Click here for more information on Valley Metro’s education programs.

Last year’s winner, Stephen Bielecki. 

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent. Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.

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Approval of Bus Contract Unifies Bus Service Operations

Valley Metro Board Approves Bus Contract Award to First Transit
Valley Metro RPTA and city of Tempe’s separate operations to unify

PHOENIX, AZ – Today, the Valley Metro Board of Directors unanimously approved an action to authorize the CEO to execute a contract with First Transit, Inc. for fixed route bus operations and maintenance. This action unifies the bus operations in Mesa and Tempe under a single contract with Valley Metro directly managing bus operations in the East Valley. 

“The Valley Metro Board has just made a landmark decision for transit service in the Valley,” said Steve Banta, Valley Metro CEO. “Shifting from separate operations to a single contractor will benefit the system and our passengers as we make better use of funds that provide local and regional bus service.”

With a unified bus operations contract, management staffing will be streamlined and economies of scale will be realized for purchasing, training and administrative functions. In addition, it will equate to lower operating costs as routes are reassigned between the Mesa and Tempe facilities.

“We are looking forward to this partnership that will ensure the delivery of high quality transit services for all Tempe residents and passengers,” said Tempe Councilmember and Valley Metro Board member Shana Ellis.  “Tempe’s priority is to provide connectivity to our residents, students and regional visitors while we also protect and enhance our transit network.”

RPTA and Tempe staff partnered to develop a joint scope of work for the contractor bidding process and evaluation of the proposals. The decision to award was based on price, an integrated operations plan, management team and firm experience, as well as continuous improvement and employee development.

Tempe will continue to administer and manage its local transit tax and define its overall transit program while RPTA will directly manage bus operations.  For passengers and the Tempe community, the unification of service could assist with the preservation and enhancement of existing bus service.

First Transit is awarded an initial three year base term at a cost of $150,885,082 with options available for years four through ten at a cost of $407,764,469. Over a ten-year period, First Transit’s price proposal for the unified approach was $36 million less than the combined costs to operate each entity separately. The contract takes effect July 1, 2013.
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About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way
that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.

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Light Rail Groundbreaking Marks New Beginning with 3.2-Mile Extension in Phoenix

PHOENIX, AZ – Valley Metro and the city of Phoenix are marking a new beginning for the Valley’s transit system with an official groundbreaking on January 12, 2013.  Construction on the Northwest light rail extension begins in early 2013 adding 3.2 miles to the existing 20 miles of service. Expansion of light rail is now occurring on both ends of the system with Central Mesa Extension’s construction underway since July 2012. 

“This is an exciting time for all transit riders as we expand further into Phoenix, providing our customers with greater transit choice,” said Valley Metro CEO Steve Banta. “It is another important step towards building a multi-modal Total Transit Network that supports regional growth.”

“As Mayor of the City of Phoenix and Chairman of the METRO board, I welcome the community to participate in the groundbreaking ceremony which marks the start of the Northwest Extension construction project, adding 3 miles of light rail in our city,” said city of Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton. “Along with existing bus service, this project will result in a stronger public transit service that is important to the mobility of the residents and the vitality of businesses and neighborhoods along 19th Avenue.”

The community is invited to a festive, family-friendly groundbreaking celebration including fun activities, food from local businesses and remarks from Valley Metro/city of Phoenix leadership.

Event Details
Saturday, January 12
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Southwest corner of 19th Avenue and Dunlap
Click here for more info

The Northwest Extension will extend light rail northbound on 19th Avenue from Montebello to Dunlap Avenue and is expected to open in late 2015-early 2016. For more information, go to valleymetro.org/northwest or contact Carla Kahn, Community Outreach Coordinator, at 602-744-5552 or ckahn@metrolightrail.org.
 
About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system
was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Light Rail Strike Averted

PHOENIX, AZ – Light rail service will run as normal on New Year’s Eve; the potential for a work stoppage has been averted.  The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1433 and light rail operations contractor, Alternate Concepts, Inc. (ACI), have agreed to continue labor negotiations, keeping light rail operators on the job under existing work conditions.

ATU and ACI have both agreed to submit their issues to binding arbitration where the decision of the arbitrator will be final.  The arbitration process will begin in early 2013.

“I’m pleased that these discussions will continue because it’s critical that our light rail system keeps running and that service is provided across the region,” said Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton, Chairman of the Valley Metro Rail Board.  “I have spoken to both sides on this issue and I stand ready to work with them toward a long-term resolution.”

The Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between the ATU and ACI expired on June 30, 2012.  Two 90-day extensions have occurred to allow for greater discussion; the second extension is set to end on December 31, 2012.  Today’s agreement will continue the terms of the current CBA until a new agreement can be reached in 2013.

“We are relieved that our passengers will not be affected, especially this holiday season,” said Valley Metro CEO Steve Banta.  “Both ACI and the Union representing our operators have been instrumental in the success of our light rail system and delivering a service that is of value to nearly 50,000 riders a day.”

ACI has served as Valley Metro Rail’s operations contractor since 2006.  There are currently 47 operators employed by ACI who provide Valley residents with safe, reliable light rail service. 

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

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New Year’s Holiday Transit Schedules

PHOENIX, AZ —With an abundance of celebrations and festivities at this time of year, Valley Metro asks passengers to check bus and light rail schedules before taking any trips on transit. Bus and light rail will have varying holiday schedules.

On New Year’s Eve, Monday, December 31:

-Valley Metro light rail will operate a weekday schedule with extended hours until 2 a.m. to accommodate event crowds
-Valley Metro buses will operate a regular weekday schedule
-Bus service in Tempe will operate a weekday schedule until 2 a.m. outbound from the Transportation Center at Fifth and College
-Customer Service at 602.253.5000 will be open 6 a.m.-8 p.m.

On New Year’s Day, Tuesday, January 1:

-All Valley Metro buses and light rail will operate a holiday/Sunday schedule
-Customer Service will be closed.

For more information, contact Customer Service at 602-253-5000 or go to valleymetro.org or www.tempe.gov/tim.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

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Sun City West Joins Northwest Valley Dial-a-Ride

Phoenix, AZ – Valley Metro is adding the retirement community of Sun City West to the Northwest Valley Dial-a-Ride service. Currently, Northwest Valley Dial-a-Ride serves the communities in El Mirage, Surprise, Sun City and Youngtown. As of January 2, 2013, Sun City West will be included, citing cost savings and increased passenger benefits. To be eligible to access the new service in Sun City West, passengers must be ADA certified, 65 years of age and older or a person with a disability.

“Expanding Northwest Valley Dial-a-Ride to include Sun City West provides a first-time travel option to the residents in this unique community,” said Arleen Schenck, Valley Metro Mobility Services Manager. “Valley Metro is working to regionalize the Dial-a- Ride service on behalf of the customer and the communities where they travel. 

Northwest Valley Dial-a-Ride will offer extended hours and door-to-door service to passengers in Sun City West at $4.00 per one way trip. Additionally, passengers can travel in any of the Northwest Valley cities that are currently part of the regional program. Passengers should begin using the new reservation phone number on December 26 to schedule rides beginning January 2. More information can be found at valleymetro.org.

Northwest Dial-a-Ride at a Glance:

• Price: $4.00 per ride
• Hours of operation: Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Saturday availability for dialysis patients only – 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Reservation hours: Monday – Friday, 6 am – 7:30 p.m.
• Reservation phone number: 602.266.8723
• Advance notice required: Call one to three days before trip is needed (no same-day service)
• Rider eligibility: ADA certified, passengers 65-years and older, passengers with disabilities (no general public service)

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Update on Northwest Light Rail Extension

Phoenix, AZ (November 19, 2012) Valley Metro invites the community to attend a public meeting that will provide updates on the Northwest Extension of light rail. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the final design, see the draft construction schedule and learn about business assistance programs. Officials from Valley Metro, the city of Phoenix and construction contractors, Sundt/Stacy and Witbeck, will be available to answer questions. Residents and businesses have a choice of two dates:

Tuesday, November 27, 2012
6 – 8 p.m. (Presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m.)
Location: Orangewood Elementary School Cafeteria
7337 N. 19th Avenue, Phoenix (19th Avenue between Northern and Glendale)

Thursday, November 29, 2012
6 – 8 p.m. (Presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m.)
Richard E. Miller School Cafeteria
2021 W. Alice Avenue, Phoenix (19th Avenue between Northern and Dunlap)

The 3.2-mile extension will travel north from Bethany Home Road along 19th Avenue to Dunlap Avenue, opening in late 2015/early 2016. For more information on the project, go to www.valleymetro.org/northwest.

For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities at these meetings, please contact Carla Kahn at 602-744-5552 or ckahn@valleymetro.org. 
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About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

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October 2012 Ridership Breaks All-Time Records

Phoenix, AZ (Nov. 19, 2012) Passenger boardings for the regional transit system are the highest-ever recorded at 7,080,564 monthly boardings surpassing record ridership in April 2009 of 6,649,206. 

“Significant ridership increases are an indicator that passengers are finding greater value and convenience by using public transit to reach their local destinations,” said Steve Banta, Valley Metro CEO.

High ridership days on light rail are driven significantly by special events, such as the ASU vs. Oregon football game on October 18 that was the highest ridership day to date at more than 65,000 boardings. In October, light rail also experienced its highest Saturday ridership average in the system’s history.

Annual and monthly ridership reports are also available online at ValleyMetro.org.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.# # #

Oct. 30 Meeting on Gilbert Road Extension

PHOENIX, AZ — Valley Metro and the city of Mesa invite the community to attend a public meeting to learn more about extending light rail on Main Street between Mesa Drive and Gilbert Road.  Attendees will be updated on the Feasibility Study that evaluated various alternatives related to this future extension. Valley Metro and the city of Mesa are now entering into the next phase of the planning process, the Environmental Assessment (EA). At this meeting, two route alternatives will be reviewed, as well as the location and parking capacity necessary for a park-and-ride facility proposed for the west side of the intersection of Main Street and Gilbert Road.  Project staff will be on-hand to provide information and collect comments.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012
6 – 8 p.m. (presentation at 6:30 p.m.)
St. Peter Lutheran Church
1844 E. Dana Ave. (between Forest and Shouse streets)

In 2009, METRO, Mesa City Council and Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) approved a locally preferred alternative to extend light rail five miles on Main Street from Sycamore to Gilbert Road in two phases. The first phase is the 3.1-mile Central Mesa light rail extension from Sycamore, through downtown Mesa to Mesa Drive that is currently under construction. The second phase is the 1.9 mile extension that ends at Gilbert Road.

For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities at this meeting, please contact Alex Albert at (602) 980-0913/TTY (602) 251-2039 or aalbert@valleymetro.org.  Also contact Alex to be added to the Gilbert Road email distribution list.

Additional information is available online at www.metrolightrail.org/gilbertroad. 

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

Public Asked to Provide Feedback on Possible Fare Change

Phoenix, AZ (Oct. 2, 2012) Valley Metro is hosting a series of public events this fall to encourage feedback on potential transit fare changes that could take effect March 1, 2013. The proposal includes a $.25 increase for a 1-Ride fare on local bus/LINK/light rail and a $.50 increase for a 1-Ride fare on Express/RAPID. The new fare structure allows Express/RAPID riders to more equitably share in the cost of operations.

In addition to the potential transit fare change, a new 15-day pass is proposed for local bus/LINK/light rail and the 3-day pass could be discontinued.

Valley Metro is asking the public to give input by providing several opportunities to learn more about the fare change and offer feedback. Options to offer input include open houses, a public hearing, fare change webinar, social media conversation and in-person surveys. Public feedback will be accepted through Saturday, November 3. Details are also available at ValleyMetro.org or by calling 602.253.5000.

Open Houses: A presentation is not provided, however staff and materials are on hand to share information and collect comments.  Persons needing disability accommodations should contact Valley Metro at 602.262.7433 or by email at receptionist@ValleyMetro.org.

October 22, 2012, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Tempe Transportation Center, Don Cassano Room
200 E. Fifth St., Tempe

October 23, 2012, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Cesar Chavez Library
3635 W. Baseline Rd., Laveen

October 23, 2012, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
City of Chandler, Council Chambers
88 E. Chicago St., Chandler

October 24, 2012, 12 – 1:30 p.m.
Valley Metro, Board Room
101 N. 1st Ave., Phoenix

October 24, 2012, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Cholla Library, Multipurpose Room
10050 Metro Pkwy., Phoenix

October 24, 2012, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
City of Glendale, Council Chambers
5850 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale

October 25, 2012, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
City of Mesa, Utility Conference Room
640 N. Mesa Dr., Mesa

October 25, 2012, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Arcadia High School, Conference Center
4703 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix

October 27, 2012, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Granite Reef Senior Center, Room 01
1700 N. Granite Reef Rd., Scottsdale

October 29, 2012, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Pecos Community Center, Multipurpose Room
17010 S. 48th St., Phoenix

October 30, 2012, 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Desert Sage Library, Multipurpose Room
7602 W. Encanto Blvd., Phoenix

Public hearing: The public hearing is a formal meeting that includes a presentation, spoken comments and stenographer to capture all comments. Persons needing disability accommodations should contact Valley Metro at 602.262.7433 or by email at receptionist@ValleyMetro.org.

November 1, 2012, 5 – 7:30 p.m.
Valley Metro Board Room
101 N. 1st Ave., Phoenix

Webinar
October 23, 2012, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Listen to a presentation and staff will respond to your questions.
Register at: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/610855472

Tweet Chat
October 29, 2012, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Using #vmfares, learn more about the proposed fare adjustment and ask questions of @ValleyMetroRPTA

In-person surveys
Staff will conduct surveys at various locations throughout the Valley to receive additional feedback on the fare change.

Online survey
Go to the website, ValleyMetro.org, to complete an online comment card in English or Spanish.

Email Valley Metro
For questions or additional information, email us at fares@valleymetro.org or call Customer Service at 602.253.5000.

More about the fare change proposal:

In November 2011, fare change public meetings were held to receive input on a $.25 increase to the 1-Ride fare for local bus/LINK/light rail and Express/RAPID.

With every fare increase proposal, a federally-required analysis must be conducted to ensure that all riders continue to have equal access and pay equally for transit service. With the originally proposed $.25 increase to the Express/RAPID 1-Ride fare, riders would be paying less for the cost to operate service than local bus/LINK/light rail riders. To provide equity among all fare paying passengers, the proposed fare increase now includes a change to the Express/RAPID 1-Ride fare from $.25 to $.50, an additional $.25 from the proposal in November 2011.

Fare increases are necessary to preserve service. As the cost of transit operations continues to rise, fare revenue must keep pace. regular adjustments are required to keep service on the street and balance revenue with cost of operations.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.# # #

October is Rideshare Month

Phoenix, AZ (Sept. 24, 2012) Valley Metro wants to know if you are up to the challenge of sharing your ride at least once a week in the month of October. Employers, local residents and anyone that makes a regular drive to work or school is asked to consider alternative travel options next month.

“Sharing a ride is beneficial on so many levels,” said Dawn M. Coomer, Valley Metro Business Services Manager. “You can add minutes or hours to your day and arrive at your destination less stressed.” Considering vehicle fuel and maintenance costs, limiting the drive alone trip just one day a week can help save up to $70 a month.

According to regional air quality experts, 49 miles of vehicle travel creates one pound of pollution. With an average Valley daily commute of 32 miles, using alternative modes can reduce ground-level ozone and the additional churn of particulate matter or dust particles from vehicle use.

Western Refining employee, Mary Korba, says that joining a Valley Metro vanpool has been an exceptionally positive experience. “Not only am I saving money and time, I have developed lifelong friendships,” says Korba. “In fact, I met my husband while riding in a Valley Metro van. I guess you could say that spending quality time together twice each day has really paid off.”

Rideshare Month is an annual county-wide event that encourages the use of alternative commute options, public transit, carpools, vanpools or bicycling to help reduce emissions from vehicle use, decrease congestion and conserve energy.  Here are the ways local residents and employers can participate in Rideshare Month:

Commute Tracker contest: A perfect reason to try a new way to travel! Login or create an account at SharetheRide.com. Log daily commute activities and receive points to be entered into a contest for the chance to win prizes.

Employer Challenge: The competition warms up as the Valley’s weather cools down! Local organizations compete against each other in a Valley-wide challenge October 7-13 by getting their employees to leave their cars at home at least once a week.
More information is available by logging on to www.ValleyMetro.org.

Anyone in the Valley seeking a carpool partner, seat in a commuter vanpool, bike buddy or other travel option can go to www.ShareTheRide.com. Public transit schedules and fares, park-and-ride locations and trip planning tools, including Google Transit, are available at www.ValleyMetro.org. Customers can also call 602.262.RIDE for additional information on options to driving alone.

The Clean Air Campaign is sponsored by the Arizona Departments of Environmental Quality and Transportation, Maricopa Association of Governments, Maricopa County Air Quality Department, and Valley Metro.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

Comment on Phoenix bus route changes

Public invited to comment on proposed bus route changes

PHOENIX—With the anticipated start of light rail construction on 19th Avenue and the launch of the PHX Sky Train at Sky Harbor, the Phoenix Public Transit Department is proposing changes to city bus routes effective January 28, 2013 and the public is invited to make comments. Other service changes include the new RAPID route and the Sunnyslope neighborhood circulator route.

The public can attend several public meetings and a public hearing, or send comments to the department, or take an on-line survey. Comments will be accepted until September 26, 2012.

Bus routes 15, 19, and 60, which run on 19th Avenue, will be modified to avoid light rail construction area but a shuttle service is proposed along 19th Avenue from Bethany Home to MetroCenter Mall to service passengers in that zone.

Bus routes 1, 13, and 44, which service the Sky Harbor area, will change to connect transit passengers to the PHX Sky Train, which will be launched in early 2013.

Other proposed changes include making the RAPID Central/South Mountain route permanent – it is currently on a 180-day trial run; and shortening Sunnyslope’s SMART neighborhood circulator route to improve service frequency.

Information is available at phoenix.gov/publictransit/jan2013.html, which includes an on-line survey about the proposed changes. The public can also attend any of the three public meetings or the public hearing; and submit comments via email or Twitter.

Public Meetings

• September 13, 6 a.m. – 8 a.m., Sunnyslope Transit Center, 8927 N. 3rd St., Phoenix
• September 18, 5:30 a.m. – 8 a.m., 27th Avenue & Baseline Park-and-Ride, Phoenix
• September 18, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.Orangewood Elementary School, Cafeteria, 7337 N. 19th Ave., Phoenix (after light rail discussion)

Public Hearing

• September 19, 2012, 6:00 p.m.until all comments are heard, with a 5:30 p.m.Open House to review information, at the City of Phoenix Public Transit Department, 302 N. First Avenue, 7th floor Conference Room, Phoenix.

Comments

“January 2013 Bus Service Changes” comments will be accepted until midnight September 26, 2012

Take the on-line survey http://phoenix.gov/publictransit/news/jan2013.html; or send written comments to: Phoenix Public transit Department, 302 N. First Avenue, #900, Phoenix, Arizona 85003; or email PubTrans@phoenix.gov or http://twitter.com/PhoenixMetroBus

Public Meeting to Introduce Light Rail Extension to Gilbert Road

PHOENIX, AZ — METRO and the City of Mesa invite the community to attend a public meeting to learn about extending light rail on Main Street between Mesa Drive and Gilbert Road.  Attendees will be updated on the route alternatives under evaluation, view conceptual drawings and learn more about the federally-required Environmental Assessment (EA) process.  Project staff will be on-hand to provide information and collect comments.

Tuesday, September 11, 2012
6 – 8 p.m. (presentation begins at 6:30 p.m.)
Mesa Church of Christ – Fellowship Hall
1223 East Dana Avenue, southeast corner of Stapley Drive/Dana Avenue

In 2009, METRO, Mesa City Council and Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) approved a locally preferred alternative to extend light rail five miles on Main Street from Sycamore to Gilbert Road in two phases. The first phase is the 3.1-mile Central Mesa light rail extension from Sycamore, through downtown Mesa to Mesa Drive that is currently under construction.  The second phase to Gilbert Road is another 1.9 miles.  While unfunded at this time, the Gilbert Road extension continues to move through the planning process as future dollars are identified.

For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact Alex Albert at (602) 980-0913/TTY (602) 251-2039 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).  Also contact Alex to be added to the Gilbert Road email distribution list.

Additional information is available online at www.metrolightrail.org/gilbertroad. 

About Valley Metro Rail (METRO) 

METRO is responsible for the development and operation of the region’s high-capacity transit system.  The first 20-mile light rail line opened December 2008 and served 13.2 million riders in 2011, exceeding the prior year by four percent.  METRO serves an average of 45,000 riders per weekday.  It is also planning for six extensions that will create a 57-mile system by 2032.

Dial-a-Ride transition in Surprise

Phoenix, AZ (August 28, 2012) The city of Surprise is working with Valley Metro to get their passengers transitioned to the Northwest Valley Dial-a-Ride service. Citing savings and increased passenger benefits, the city of Surprise will begin the new partnership with the regional transit agency on October 1, 2012.

“Expanding the Northwest Valley Dial-a-Ride service to include Surprise provides value to the city, their passengers and the region,” said Arleen Schenck, Valley Metro Mobility Services Manager. “The transition to Valley Metro will expand passenger benefits such as our customary door-to-door service.

Outreach events are scheduled for September as a way to introduce passengers to the new vehicles and meet representatives from Valley Metro and Discount Cab. Surprise residents and current Surprise Dial-a-Ride passengers are encouraged to attend any of the upcoming events. To reserve a ride to one of the events occurring during regular Dial-a-Ride operational hours Mon-Fri, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., please call 623-222-1622.

Northwest Valley Dial-a-Ride Community Outreach Events

-Sept. 4, 11:00 a.m., Cimarron Center, 17100 West Clearview Boulevard, Surprise, AZ 85387
-Sept. 18,  9:00 a.m., Sun Village Community Center, 17300 North Sun Village Parkway, Surprise, AZ 85374 (enter from Bell Road and 143rd Avenue)
-Sept. 19,  6:00 p.m., Disability Advisory Commission Meeting, Surprise City Hall, next to Council Chamber in Council overflow room, 16000 N. Civic Center Plaza, Surprise, AZ 85473
-Sept. 25, 12:30 p.m. – Surprise Senior Center, 15832 North Hollyhock Street, Surprise, AZ 85478
Northwest Valley Dial-a-Ride currently serves residents who are seniors age 65 and over, as well as residents who are disabled, in El Mirage, Sun City and Youngtown. Service in Surprise will also include the general public at this time. On October 1, Surprise will be added to the service that is contracted to Total Transit, the parent company of Discount Cab. Discount Cab has also been providing ADA paratransit service for East Valley Dial-a-Ride cities since July 1, 2012.

Additional passenger benefits include customizing vehicles for specific travel needs, longer scheduling hours and unlimited ride bookings. All drivers are trained according to the same federal standards as any public transportation provider.

For more information about Dial-a-Ride service, call Valley Metro customer service at 602-253-5000 or go to www.ValleyMetro.org.


Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

Calling All 3rd Grade Artists!

PHOENIX (Aug. 28, 2012) – The eighth annual Cool Transit STUFF contest kicks off with an invite to all 3rd graders in Maricopa County that love to draw city buses or trains. With the theme, Valley Metro Brings the Community Together! Valley Metro is encouraging students to consider how taking a bus or train ties a community together.

The objective of the contest is to promote excitement about public transportation. Transit also provides solutions to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion.

Who: All 3rd graders in Maricopa County during FY 2012/13 school year
What: 8th Annual Cool Transit STUFF Contest
Where: Entry forms at http://www.valleymetro.org/transit_education/bus_contest
When: Entries accepted until Friday, October 5, 2012
How: Use the reverse side of the entry forms as the canvas! Draw a picture that focuses on one of the following three areas:

1. Going Fun Places on Valley Metro – Go far without a car, riding transit brings people in our community together.
2. Staying Safe on Transit – Riding transit is one of the safest ways to get around our community.
3. Going Green for My Community - Transit helps protect Planet Earth.  Stop Pollution and Ride a Solution: Valley Metro!
Include city bus and light rail images, family and community in your design.

Why: To be one of 13 winners who have their art displayed in a fun calendar and distributed to Valley leaders and the general public. Winners will also receive fun prizes!
 
Rules of the contest:
• Artwork can be drawn in crayons, colored pencils, markers, or computer drawings and must be drawn on an 8 ½ x 11 white piece paper (no lined paper).
• All 3rd graders in Maricopa County during the 2012/2013 school year are eligible to submit art.
• Artwork must be designed and created by an individual student.
• Contest is limited to one entry per person.
• Deadline for entry is Friday, October 5, 2012 at 5 p.m.
• Artwork can be mailed to:
        Valley Metro
        Attn: Transit Education Department
        101 N. 1st Avenue, Ste. 1300
        Phoenix, AZ 85003

Judging is based on successfully illustrating one of these themes, as well as creativity and neatness. For more information about the contest, contact Transit Education at (602) 523-6070.

Transit Education is a major initiative provided by Valley Metro that includes school classroom presentations, bus and light rail field trips, and community event participation.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

Valley Metro Rail (dba METRO light rail) is responsible for the development and operation of the region’s high-capacity transit system.  The first 20-mile light rail line opened December 2008 and served 13.2 million riders in 2011, exceeding the prior year by four percent.  METRO serves an average of 40,000 riders per weekday.  It is also planning for six extensions that will create a 57-mile system by 2031.
 
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Nominate Your Employer for Clean Air Efforts

Champions for Clean Air
25th Annual Clean Air Campaign Awards and Luncheon Presented by SRP
Call for Nominations

The 2012 Clean Air Awards’ Call for Nominations is underway. Help us honor the individuals and organizations making extraordinary efforts to create a brighter future for the Valley. The award’s honorees have significantly reduced air pollution and traffic congestion by supporting clean air programs and encouraging the use of alternative modes of transportation, including riding transit, biking, teleworking and more. Please join Valley Metro, SRP, and other community leaders in recognizing their efforts by nominating them for a prestigious Clean Air Campaign Award. We look forward to receiving your nominations! To download a nominations packet, click here.

People’s Choice Bulletin Board Submission Deadline
Wednesday, August 22, 2012, 5:00 p.m.

Nomination Deadline
Wednesday, August 29, 2012, 5:00 p.m.

PHX Public Transit Hosts Bus Event for New RAPID™ Service

The Phoenix Public Transit Department is opening the bus doors to potential new passengers with a free “open bus” event July 15, 2012 for the new RAPID™ Central/South Mountain route serving south and southwest areas of Phoenix.  Passengers can board an air-conditioned display bus, test out the seats, get transit schedules, and learn about other transit services. The new route provides commuter service from the 27th Ave. and Baseline Rd. park-and-ride to downtown Phoenix. 

The event will be held on July 15, 7-9 a.m., 2727 W. Baseline Road, which is the southwest corner of 27th Avenue and Baseline Road. A new 180-day pilot of RAPID service in the South Mountain community will begin operating on July 23. Information about the new RAPID route and all Valley Metro services are available by clicking here.

ZOOM Circulator Bus Expands into Tolleson

Phoenix, AZ The neighborhood circulator bus that serves Avondale residents will be “zooming” into Tolleson beginning Monday, July 23. For the first time since the route began service one year ago, trips will be made on Saturday giving riders options for using neighborhood transit six days a week.

“Partnering with the City of Avondale on the first anniversary of the ZOOM circulator offers Tolleson residents half-hour service Monday through Friday with an abbreviated schedule on Saturday.  This is the first time in our 100 year history that we will be able to provide connectivity to our residents, as well as to our Fortune 500 employers and our local businesses,” said Mayor Adolfo F. Gámez.  “As a full service community to our 6,541 residents we are pleased to add this connectivity from Tolleson to the YMCA.”

ZOOM will expand travel between the areas of Gateway Pavillions, at 99th Avenue and McDowell Road, and Estrella Mountain Community College, near Thomas and Dysart roads. New stops on July 23 include the Southwest Valley YMCA, Tolleson City Hall and Tolleson Crossings.

To celebrate the service expansion, Avondale, Tolleson and Valley Metro will host a “Splash into Service” event on Monday, July 23, 8 a.m., at Tolleson City Hall. The celebration will include brief remarks by local officials, fun activities for younger residents and refreshments. The public is welcome to attend.

“The ZOOM circulator has become a familiar part of Avondale’s landscape,” said Avondale Mayor Marie Lopez Rogers. “This convenient service has made it easier for people to connect to places within the community, whether it’s for education, shopping, medical visits or recreation.” Mayor Lopez Rogers added that Avondale is pleased to have Saturday service with expansion into Tolleson, giving riders more options for travel.

With about 400 daily boardings in May 2012, ZOOM is experiencing a 62 percent increase in ridership since August 2011. The demand for service has prompted city officials to add Saturday trips that will run every 30 minutes from approximately 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Weekday service operates every 30 minutes from approximately 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

““With a steady increase in ridership over the past year, the ZOOM neighborhood circulator service is proving its value to the regional transit system,” said Steve Banta, Valley Metro CEO. “The collaboration with our West Valley partners to create a new transit market is adding to the quality of life we all experience.”
ZOOM is partially funded by the cities and residents of Avondale and Tolleson.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

# # #

Service Changes—New Transit Book

Phoenix, AZ Changes will occur on more than 35 local routes and 19 Express bus routes on Monday, July 23. In addition, three local circulator routes will have adjustments.  There are no changes to the METRO light rail schedule. Passengers can click here to view the new schedules and route maps.

“Valley Metro is still adjusting to lower than anticipated sales tax revenues, which is our main source of funding for transit operations,” said Paul Hodgins, Valley Metro Transit Life Cycle Program manager. “We are working hard to reduce the impact on our passengers while focusing on service efficiency and productivity.”

Passengers should note that significant changes to the Express bus system will occur with July’s service change.  Routes that are being eliminated have alternative service nearby or are being combined with other routes to create a new Express bus route.

Changes to local routes include schedule and route adjustments.  Avondale’s ZOOM circulator will introduce Saturday service and new stops at the Southwest Valley YMCA and various locations in Tolleson.  Tempe’s Orbit Jupiter and Mars routes will have both routing changes and schedule adjustments. A new Central South Mountain RAPID service will travel from 27th Avenue and Baseline Park-and-Ride to downtown and the Capitol area. Passengers are advised to go online at www.ValleyMetro.org to view all of the bus route changes before July 23.

The Transit Book is an electronic and printed comprehensive resource that passengers rely on for tips about riding transit, fare outlet location information and schedules and maps for more than 80 bus routes and METRO light rail. It is available online or can be picked up at transit centers and on buses. Reference copies of the Transit Book are available at city libraries and city halls.  A customized version of the Transit Book can be created by using the “My eTransit Book” link at ValleyMetro.org.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

Valley Metro Rail (dba METRO light rail) is responsible for the development and operation of the region’s high-capacity transit system.  The first 20-mile light rail line opened December 2008 and served 13.2 million riders in 2011, exceeding the prior year by four percent.  METRO serves an average of 40,000 riders per weekday.  It is also planning for six extensions that will create a 57-mile system by 2031.

# # #

Unification of Bus Contracts Being Explored

Phoenix, AZ (June 22, 2012) In a move to help create a fully integrated regional transit system in the Valley, the City of Tempe and the Valley Metro RPTA are exploring a “scout program” for bus service unification. This “scout program” would aid in taking the first steps to unify Tempe’s bus operations with the Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA). The intent is to operate regional bus more efficiently, achieve cost savings, and improve service to customers. Tempe currently operates 19 bus routes (including Local, Express, Flash and Orbit) from a bus operations facility on Rio Salado Parkway in Tempe. The RPTA currently operates 22 Local and Express bus routes from an operations facility located on Greenfield Road in Mesa. Combined, Tempe and RPTA provide nearly 45 percent of the region’s bus service.

“With the expiration of both agencies’ individual bus operations contracts approaching, this creates an opportunity to consider whether unification between Tempe and RPTA will provide a more cost effective and efficient bus system for our residents,” said Tempe Councilmember and RPTA Board member Shana Ellis.

Much of the estimated savings potential stems from increasing the number of bus routes based out of the more centrally located East Valley Bus Operations Maintenance Facility in Tempe. Additionally, the Tempe facility has bus maintenance capacity for 250 buses whereas RPTA’s Mesa facility can accommodate up to 150 buses. Unifying will also create opportunities to reduce duplicative contractor staff by consolidating functions, consolidate auxiliary contracts (e.g., fuel supply, fuel station maintenance), and improve operational and security coordination. In addition to greater efficiency, higher service quality will be a measure of success in the unification effort.

The advantages to the community may include the preservation of existing bus service as the potential cost savings and long-term efficiencies achieved can partially replace budget gaps created by lagging sales tax revenues in local and regional transit budgets. The estimated savings is in the range of $800,000 to $1,000,000 with Tempe’s local savings totaling about half of this amount.

Tempe and RPTA are conducting a joint procurement process to hire a new bus operations contractor to provide services from both sites beginning July 2013. The procurement will require contractors to provide pricing for both the unified operation and separated operations. This strategy will provide the Tempe City Council and RPTA Board with concrete information on the actual cost savings related to unification and will aid both agencies in making the final decision to proceed with unification. It is anticipated that one or more contractors will be selected in December 2012 and will begin the contract term of six years on July 1, 2013.

Tempe will continue to administer its local Transit Tax (i.e., a permanent half-cent sales tax that funds transit in the city). Tempe will also continue to own its bus fleet and operations facility, and exercise complete control of all non-rail elements of its transit program.

The RPTA’s major funding source for regional transit services is a portion of the half-cent transportation sales tax approved by voters in 2004 (i.e., Proposition 400).

Tempe and the RPTA currently partner on bus procurement and fleet maintenance inspections, which has resulted in improved coordination, streamlined project delivery and reduction of costs to both agencies.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.
 

# # #

Dump the Pump on June 21

On June 21, 2012 the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), in partnership with the Sierra Club, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), and public transportation systems across the country participated to celebrate the 7th Annual National Dump the Pump Day. Arizonans rode transit on National Dump the Pump Day, including Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton as a way to help reduce vehicle trips and take a vacation from the pain at the pump. As the largest Dump the Pump Day ever, more than 144 transit agencies across the nation participated including Valley Metro and transit operations in the cities of Avondale, Flagstaff, Tucson and Yuma.

East Valley Dial-a-Ride Service Change

Phoenix, AZ Beginning on July 1, East Valley Dial-a-Ride (EVDAR) service features a new, wider array of vehicles allowing a more custom fit to the travel requests made by EVDAR passengers. Service will be provided in Discount Cab vehicles and other providers depending upon the need of each passenger. Those providers include: the MARC Center, DMTS-Dependable Medical Transport Service, QTS-Quality Transport Services, PHX EI Transportation, Dunn Transportation, Hope Medical and NetCor. The transition to the new vehicles has been evolving over the past few months and becomes complete on July 1.

“Our passengers will find comfort knowing that their service will continue to serve their unique travel needs in a safe and timely manner,” said Arleen Schenck, Valley Metro Mobility Services.

All providers and drivers are required to follow the same federal standards as required by any public transportation provider. In addition to strict safety requirements, the new EVDAR provides:

• Customized and flexible service—a reservationist will discuss specific needs of the passenger and matching the appropriate vehicle.

• More direct route service—fewer shared rides for passengers who need or prefer to go directly to their destination.

• Door-to-door service—All drivers will continue to meet you at your door for assistance getting to the vehicle.

Valley residents who can access EVDAR include: Persons who are ADA certified, other persons
with disabilities (Chandler, Scottsdale and Tempe only), and senior citizens age 65 and over (Chandler, Scottsdale and Tempe only).

ADA trips must be scheduled one to 14 days in advance by calling (480) 633-0101. All ADA
trips are $3.50 each way. Non-ADA/Demand trips must be scheduled one to three days in advance and fares are $1.00 to board and $.50 for each additional zone.

East Valley Dial-a-Ride allows passengers to travel between Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Scottsdale and Tempe without having to transfer when crossing city and town borders. For more information about all Valley Metro services, go to www.ValleyMetro.org or call (602) 253-5000.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

# # #

Transit usage up by 6.8%

Transit ridership across the nation is trending higher at 5.0% in the first quarter of the year. Valley Metro is experiencing a similar effect. With a slight economic upswing, ongoing high gas prices and transit use to sporting and community events, total regional ridership experienced an increase of 6.8% over last year. 

May 2012 Ridership
Bus and Light Rail:  5,980,312
Bus only:  4,861,714
Light rail only: 1,118,598

May 2011 Ridership
Bus and Light Rail:  5,633,142
Bus:  4,614,458
Light Rail: 1,018,684

Public Meeting: Transit Study to Review South Central Options

PHOENIX, AZ — METRO will hold a public meeting to discuss the South Central Corridor Study, a study of alternatives to provide enhanced transit service to South Central Phoenix.
 
At Thursday’s public meeting, METRO will provide information about the study process and possible alternatives for future transit routes in the area between 7th Avenue on the west, 7th Street on the east, Washington Street on the north, and Dobbins Road on the south. There will be a presentation at 6:30 p.m., followed by an opportunity for questions and comments.
 
Thursday, June 7, 2012
6 – 8 p.m.; presentation at 6:30 p.m.
South Mountain Community Center
Century Room
212 E. Alta Vista Rd.
 
The South Central Corridor Study, formally known as an Alternatives Analysis (AA), is an 18 – 24 month evaluation of several high-capacity transit modes – including light rail, bus rapid transit and modern streetcar – and routes to determine which will serve the community best.  It is the start of the federal process to eventually apply for capital funding.  Funding for the study is provided by a Federal Transit Administration grant with local match from the City of Phoenix.

For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities at this meeting, please contact Alexandra Albert at 602-980-0913/TTY 602-251-2039 or aalbert@metrolightrail.org. Also contact Alexandra to be added to the South Central email distribution list.

About METRO

METRO is responsible for the development and operation of the region’s high-capacity transit system.  The first 20-mile light rail line opened December 2008 and served 13.2 million riders in 2011, exceeding the prior year by four percent.  METRO serves an average of 45,000 riders per weekday.  It is also planning for six extensions that will create a 57-mile system by 2032.

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Public Meeting to Review West Valley Rail Connection

PHOENIX, AZ — After several years of study and community feedback, METRO has reached recommendations for the route and transit mode for the Phoenix West high-capacity transit extension.  METRO welcomes the community to review study recommendations and provide, in particular, feedback on the route that could take light rail from downtown Phoenix, through the State Capitol area to eventually connect with the I-10 West freeway.
 
Thursday, May 3, 2012
6 – 8 p.m. (presentation at 6:30 p.m.)
St. Matthew Catholic Church and School
320 N. 20th Dr., Phoenix

The Phoenix West study was initiated in 2007 and has evaluated a range of alternatives to provide enhanced transit service to the West Valley.  In 2008, light rail was approved in the I-10 West freeway corridor.  Further evaluation was conducted to determine where in the freeway corridor and how does the service then connect to the existing light rail line.  The recommendations being presented perform the highest in such categories as improving regional mobility, supporting local neighborhoods and stimulating economic development.

For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities at this meeting, please contact Alex Albert at (602) 980-0913/TTY (602) 251-2039 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

More information on Phoenix West can be found at www.metrolightrail.org/phoenixwest. 

About METRO 

METRO is responsible for the development and operation of the region’s high-capacity transit system.  The first 20-mile light rail line opened December 2008 and served 13.2 million riders in 2011, exceeding the prior year by four percent.  METRO serves an average of 40,000 riders per weekday.  It is also planning for six extensions that will create a 57-mile system by 2031.

Intro to Contractor, Latest Schedule for Central Mesa Rail Extension

PHOENIX, AZ — The contractor is on board and has prepared a schedule for the first phase of work to construct the 3.1-mile Central Mesa light rail extension through downtown Mesa.  The public is encouraged to attend this Wednesday’s meeting to become introduced to the Design-Build team, what to expect during construction and the resources available to support the community now and throughout construction.  Construction is expected to commence in late May/early June.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012
6 – 7:30 p.m.; presentation at 6:15 p.m.
East Valley Institute of Technology
Health & Sciences Building Auditorium
1601 W. Main St., Mesa

The Central Mesa extension is a 3.1-mile light rail extension on Main Street from Sycamore to Mesa Drive.  Construction activities include relocation of utilities, roadway improvements and widening and installation of track and stations.  During construction, METRO will work closely with the contractor to minimize impacts to the community and maintain business and residential access.

For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities at this meeting, please contact Lisa Procknow at (602) 495-8213/TTY (602) 251-2039 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Citizens are encouraged to stay up-to-date with the project via email, web or social media:

Sign up to become an email subscriber by inquiring with .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

It’s 100 Degrees, Let the Cooling Begin at Solar-Powered Light Rail Station

PHOENIX, AZ — At the 3rd St./Washington light rail station in downtown Phoenix, passengers can now enjoy the chill of a solar-powered cooling system as they wait for the next train.  The system, which launched last summer, is being activated earlier than scheduled due to the heat spike.  The system typically operates May 1 – September 30.

Via a public-private partnership between the City of Phoenix, METRO light rail and NRG Energy, Inc., the company’s NRG Thermal and NRG Solar subsidiaries built the innovative system using solar power and the company’s downtown district cooling system.  The district cooling system also air-conditions such prominent downtown facilities as Chase Field, Symphony Hall and the Phoenix Convention Center. 

The 3rd St./Washington station is a highly-trafficked platform thanks to the busyness of downtown Phoenix and especially during Arizona Diamondbacks games.  The station features push buttons near each seating area that provides blasts of cool air on demand.

About METRO 

METRO is responsible for the development and operation of the region’s high-capacity transit system.  The first 20-mile light rail line opened December 2008 and served 13.2 million riders in 2011, exceeding the prior year by four percent.  METRO serves an average of 40,000 riders per weekday.  It is also planning for six extensions that will create a 57-mile system by 2031.

About NRG

NRG is at the forefront of changing how people think about and use energy. A Fortune 500 company, NRG is a pioneer in developing cleaner and smarter energy choices for our customers: whether as one of the largest solar power developers in the country, or by building the first privately funded electric vehicle charging infrastructure or by giving customers the latest smart energy solutions to better manage their energy use. Our power generating facilities can support over 20 million homes and our retail electricity providers—Reliant, Green Mountain Energy Company and Energy Plus—serve more than two million customers. More information is available at www.nrgenergy.com.

West Valley Express Routes 562 & 563

As a way to better serve passengers, Express bus Routes 562 and 563 will have morning and afternoon schedule adjustments effective Monday, April 16. Please refer to the new schedule for the adjustments to morning and afternoon trips.

Ozone season begins April 1

NEWS RELEASE FROM MARICOPA COUNTY AIR QUALITY DEPARTMENT

Contact: Holly Ward: 602-506-6713/desk * 602-526-7307/cell          

Ozone Season Begins April 1
All Maricopa County Residents Asked to Take Action

March 29, 2012 [MARICOPA COUNTY] - The Valley enters its official ozone season on April 1, and does not conclude its watch for the ground level pollutant until the end of September.  The pollutant is making an early season debut as air quality forecasters issued an ozone health watch Thursday.

Ozone pollution is granted a summertime status due to its need for interaction with heat and sunlight.  Ground level ozone forms when emissions from fossil-fuel fired equipment, industrial and chemical processes, and even household activities react with heat from the sun.

The year 2011 was shaping up to be a clean year for the region’s air quality, but Mother Nature had other plans. Twenty-three days had exceedances of the federal ozone health standard and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality issued 11 high-pollution advisories and 29 health watches for ozone during 2011.

“Ozone pollution is a very real concern that can easily be reduced through small, every day actions, but everyone must take part,” explains Maricopa County Air Quality Department Director Bill Wiley.  “Choosing to refuel after dark, avoiding drive-thru lines or even switching to CFL bulbs, can reduce ozone concentrations.”

Ground level ozone pollution is a direct threat to your lungs and can trigger asthma. Children are at the greatest risk from ozone because their lungs are still developing, they are most likely to be active outdoors, and they are more likely than adults to have asthma. Adults with asthma or other lung diseases, and older adults are also sensitive to ozone.

Ozone pollution prevention tips: 

• Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants or banks. Park your car and go inside.
• Refuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
• Drive less. When possible, carpool, van pool or use public transportation.
• Use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers
• Delay big painting projects until high-pollution advisories or health watches have passed.
• Make sure containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals and other solvents are sealed properly to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air.
• Conserve electricity.

Sign up to receive air quality updates by email or text message at www.CleanAirMakeMore.com.  To track how much pollution your commute generates, or find a carpool partner to plan a transit trip, visit www.ValleyMetro.org and select ShareTheRide.

OZONE BACKGROUND:  Ground level ozone is formed by a chemical reaction that needs heat from sunlight, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds [VOCs] to form. The months of April through September make up the Valley’s longer-than-normal “ozone season.” 

WHO’S WHO?

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality [ADEQ] provides a daily forecast for air quality. When conditions exist, ADEQ will issue high pollution advisories or health watches. Please visit www.azdeq.gov/environ/air/ozone/ensemble.pdf or call (602) 771-2367. To receive the air quality forecast via email and/or text message please visit www.azdeq.gov/subscribe.html CONTACT: Mark Shaffer – (602) 771-2215 desk / (480) 433-9551 cell

The Maricopa County Air Quality Department is a regulatory agency whose goal is to ensure federal clean air standards are achieved and maintained for the residents and visitors of Maricopa County. The department is governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and follows air quality standards set forth by the federal Clean Air Act. The department offers air quality information and resources on its Clean Air Make More website. Please visit www.CleanAirMakeMore.com to learn more.
CONTACT: Holly Ward – (602) 506-6713 desk / (602) 526-7307 cell

Valley Metro/RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents in Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, online carpool and vanpool matching, bus trip mapping, and bicycle and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local, state and federal revenues; and administered by a board of 16 governments working to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Please visit www.ValleyMetro.org to learn more.
CONTACT: Susan Tierney – (602) 523-6004 desk / (602) 292-4093 cell

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How to save 4 tons of pollution in 1 week!

Phoenix, AZ (March 27, 2012) Commuters who pitched in to help reduce travel during 2012 Rideshare Week, February 26-March 3, saved 213,139 miles from being traveled and more than four tons of pollution from being emitted into the air. Traveling just 48.7 miles creates one pound of pollution and contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone and the creation of particulate matter.

Twenty-nine employers in the Valley competed in the Try 1 in 5 Rideshare Week Employer Challenge as a way to rally the highest percentage of participation among organizations. In addition, their efforts were measured in miles of travel saved, which clearly demonstrates the impact on trip reduction and air quality efforts.  Employers encouraged their employees to carpool, vanpool, ride transit, bike, walk or telework at least one day out of the five to show that even a small but consistent effort can make a big difference.

“The bottom line is that everyone in the Valley is a winner when commuters reduce trips,” said Dawn Coomer, Valley Metro Transportation Demand Manager. “Trip reduction has a direct impact on air quality and traffic congestion year round.”

Event at CityScape on February 24 kicks off Rideshare Week.

Winning companies were selected based on having the highest percentage of participation out of a total number of employees. In the small employer category, 50-500 employees, WorldatWork saved 4,801 drive-alone miles with 46.4 percent employee participation.  In the medium employer category, 501-1,000 employees, Desert Mountain Club saved 52,784 drive-alone miles with 23.6 percent employee participation. In the large employer category, 1,000+ employees, SRP saved 43,440 drive-alone miles with 7.7 percent employee participation. These organizations will receive special recognition at the Clean Air Campaign Awards luncheon held this fall. All employers participating in the challenge are part of the Maricopa County Trip Reduction Program.

“The annual Employer Challenge contest is a wonderful way to build camaraderie among our Scottsdale staff,” said WorldatWork Human Resources Director Kip
Kipley, CBP, SPHR. “Our employees enjoy the friendly competition against other Valley employers and we find that providing a supportive work environment with options like flexible work schedules and telework helps meets our day-to-day business strategy.” 

In addition, there were randomly selected individual commuters who won prizes for making their pledge to Try 1 in 5 during the week receiving prizes such as an Arizona Cardinals autographed football and brunch for two at the Wrigley Mansion. Commuters who registered on www.ShareTheRide.com and tracked their trips were eligible for the donated prizes. A complete list of prize winners and sponsors is available on ValleyMetro.org.

Try 1 in 5 and Rideshare Month are programs of the Clean Air Campaign, sponsored by the Maricopa Association of Governments, Maricopa Air Quality Department and the Arizona Departments of Environmental Quality and Transportation. Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.# # #

Phoenix Conducts Hearings on Bus Service Changes

PROPOSED CHANGES FOR LOCAL BUS ROUTES, RAPID(tm), AND EXPRESS COMMUTER SERVICE, OPERATING IN THE CITY OF PHOENIX, TO BE EFFECTIVE JULY 23, 2012

Sixteen public meetings and a public hearing will be held to present proposed changes to City of Phoenix funded local Valley Metro routes, and RAPID(tm) and Express commuter routes, which provide service throughout the City of Phoenix.  Proposed changes would be effective on July 23, 2012, and could include modification of several bus end-of-line segments (on Routes 0, 1, 3, 7, 8, 10, 13, 17, 17A, 19, 27, 29, 35, 41, 43, 50, 51, 52, 59, 60, 67, 70, 90 and 154) to end provision of passenger service or modify the end-of-line segment; modification of Route 16 and 80 to no longer enter Sunnyslope Transit Center; elimination of the RAPID-to-Rail route; modification of Express routes that travel into the city of Phoenix; and modification of all RAPID route Friday schedules.

Public meetings will be held 30 minutes prior to City of Phoenix annual budget hearings, which will be conducted April 3-19, 2012. Members of the public may provide comment on the proposed changes at those meetings or during the budget hearings.

The public hearing will be held immediately following the Thurs., April 12, 2012 Citizens Transit Commission meeting, scheduled for 7:30-9:30 a.m., at the Phoenix Public Transit Department Office, 302 N. 1st Ave., Conference Room 7A.

Written comments accepted:  “July 2012 Bus Service Changes,” City of Phoenix Public Transit Department, 302 N. 1st Ave., Suite 900, Phoenix AZ 85003 or e-mailed to pubtrans@phoenix.gov until 5:00 p.m., Fri., April 20, 2012.  Information on proposed bus service changes will be posted at www.phoenix.gov/publictransit/july2012.html

This information can be provided in an alternate format upon request.  For reasonable accommodations, please call Don Phillips as early as possible to coordinate needed arrangements.  Call 602-262-7242 (voice) or TTY 602-534-5500, or e-mail pubtrans@phoenix.gov.

Public Hearings Feb. 29-March 12

Valley Metro is considering changes to bus service and the public is encouraged to provide input about possible service reductions through March 9. Changes could take effect as early as July 2012.

Due to a lingering recessionary climate less local, state and federal revenues are available to support public transit. The expected shortfall totals more than $137 million dollars for the various major transit funds. Nearly 80 percent of transit agencies across the U.S. have cut service or raised fares or are considering either or both of those actions. Although there has been growing demand for transit, passenger fares cover only about 23% of operations costs.

Valley Metro Express bus routes will be considered in the July 2012 service change. Express bus routes operate only during peak commute hours and travel primarily to downtown Phoenix employment centers from local cities and towns.

“With new park-and-rides being added to the Valley’s transit system, a new type of Express service is proposed that will streamline the service and provide faster, more point-to-point service,” said Carol Ketcherside, Valley Metro RPTA Director of Planning.

Valley Metro and member agencies will conduct regional public hearings on possible service changes to:  Grand Avenue Limited (GAL) and Routes 0, 1, 3, 7, 8, 10, 13, 16, 17, 19, 27, 29, 35, 41, 43, 50, 51, 52, 59, 60, 67, 70, 80, 90, 136, 154, 251, 510, 511, 512, 520, 521, 531, 532, 533, 540, 541, 542, 560, 562, 571, 581, I-17 RAPID, I-10 East RAPID, I-10 West RAPID, SR-51 RAPID, I-17 RAPID to Rail.

The public can provide input regarding the proposed service changes using an electronic comment card at ValleyMetro.org, by email to input@valleymetro.org, or by attending a public hearing.

Rideshare Week Kick-off on Feb. 24

Phoenix, AZ (Feb. 14, 2012) Commuters who are looking for ways to reduce commute costs should consider adopting the Try 1 in 5 rule. Sharing a ride just one day out of five can help save up to $70 a month, as well as precious time and added stress.  Rideshare Week, Feb. 26-March 3, is an annual county-wide event that encourages use of alternative commute options, such as public transit, carpools, vanpools or bicycling to help reduce emissions from vehicle use, decrease congestion and conserve energy.

“Rideshare Week serves as a reminder that we can each take action to improve air quality in the Valley,” said Dawn M. Coomer, Valley Metro Transportation Demand Manager. “If we can reduce our vehicle use just once per week, it will make a tremendous impact on our shared quality of life.”

According to regional air quality experts, 49 miles of vehicle travel creates one pound of pollution. With an average Valley daily commute of 32 miles, using alternative modes can reduce ground-level ozone and the additional churn of particulate matter or dust particles from vehicle use.

To kick-off Rideshare Week, Valley Metro will host a public event on Friday, February 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at CityScape’s Patriot Square in downtown Phoenix. The festivities include stations that feature rideshare options with information on light rail, telework, bicycle commuting, and instant carpool matching. Local partners including 7-Eleven, Costco, Phoenix Coyotes will be on site providing giveaways. Attendees will be invited to pledge to Try 1 in 5 during Rideshare Week. Prizes will also be given away for those who commit and sign a pledge form at the event and include a $200 Costco cash card, $150 Chipotle gift card, brunch for two at the Wrigley Mansion, a pair of tickets to the JW Desert Ridge Jazz Festival in April, suite packages for a Phoenix Coyotes game, an Arizona Cardinals autographed football and much more!

Employers in the Valley are also making a commitment to cleaner air by participating in an employer challenge that week. Winners of the challenge will receive recognition at the annual Clean Air Campaign Awards luncheon held in the fall and be eligible for other prizes.

Anyone in the Valley seeking a carpool partner, seat in a commuter vanpool, bike buddy or other travel option can go to www.ShareTheRide.com and join in the effort to Try 1 in 5. Funding for ShareTheRide.com is provided by Clean Air Campaign partners. Public transit schedules and fares, park-and-ride locations and trip planning tools are available at www.ValleyMetro.org. Customers can also call 602.262.RIDE for additional information on options to driving alone.

The Clean Air Campaign is sponsored by the Arizona Departments of Environmental Quality and Transportation, Maricopa Association of Governments, Maricopa County Air Quality Department, and Valley Metro RPTA.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

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Transit Boards Name METRO CEO as leader of Valley Metro

Phoenix, AZ (Feb. 16, 2012)  Today, two separate boards of directors representing the regional bus and rail transit agencies have selected Stephen R. Banta to lead Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) and METRO light rail as the single chief executive officer. Banta has been serving as the METRO light rail CEO since January 2010, following a national search in 2009.

“We are delighted with the decision to have Steve Banta as the single CEO that will lead both RPTA and METRO,” said Tempe Councilmember Shana Ellis who serves as a Board member for both agencies. “It speaks to greater efficiencies as we continue to deal with budget challenges.” Ellis led the working group that developed the plans for establishing a dual leadership role that will be governed by two separate Boards of Directors.

According to the 2012 RPTA Chair, Peoria Vice Mayor Ron Aames, “The selection of Banta was optimal due to his current knowledge of the Valley’s transit environment and extensive bus and rail transit experience at agencies such as TriMet in Portland and the Port Authority in Pittsburgh.”

“I am pleased to have this opportunity and the confidence of both Boards to serve as the single CEO,” said Steve Banta, newly selected CEO for RPTA and METRO. “This is a positive step forward in creating a more efficient and robust transit system, which will result in benefits to our regional customers and communities.”

Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton approved today’s decision. “Cities can think and act regionally on critical issues,” said Stanton. “Delivering an efficient and effective transit system crosses city boundaries and impacts the entire region. This is a step in the right direction.”

Mesa Councilmember and Vice Chair of the METRO light rail Board, Dennis Kavanaugh, stated, “Steve Banta has been an effective leader for METRO light rail and, with his multi-modal transit experience, is the right person to also serve RPTA.” Kavanaugh also served as a representative on the working group with Councilmember Ellis.  “The METRO Board has long-been an advocate for a single CEO.  It is the best business decision for how we advance transit in the Valley and in this economy.”

Banta will begin serving in his new role as CEO of both transit agencies on March 1, 2012.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.  All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

Valley Metro Rail (dba METRO light rail) is responsible for the development and operation of the region’s high-capacity transit system.  The first 20-mile light rail line opened December 2008 and served 13.2 million riders in 2011, exceeding the prior year by four percent.  METRO serves an average of 40,000 riders per weekday.  It is also planning for six extensions that will create a 57-mile system by 2031.

Public Transportation to Centennial Best Fest Events Feb. 11-12

(Feb. 9, 2012) Park at any one of the nine light rail park-and-ride lots and ride METRO light rail to Central Station located at Van Buren between Central Ave and First Ave.  The festival site is about a half-mile walking distance or you can catch one of two Valley Metro bus routes from the station:  westbound Rt. 3 on Van Buren or northbound Rt. 15 on the north side of the station.  Signs at Central Station indicate where the bus stops and picks up passengers.  Please check the online trip planner to figure out how to get to and from the festival site and be aware of the bus detours.

Please note that WEEKEND BUS SERVICE operates LESS frequently and passengers waiting to catch a city bus to go to the festival site may be required to wait 30-60 minutes for the next scheduled bus to arrive. Bus routes will be on detour beginning February 9 and will continue through February 11. Please click here for impacted service.

Go to www.ValleyMetro.org to plan your trip on transit and find fare information. 

All-day passes are $3.50 and available at kiosks at all light rail stations. It is less expensive to purchase your pass in advance then on-board a Valley Metro bus. For a complete list of retail outlets selling All-day passes, click here.

Public Transportation to Centennial Best Fest Events Feb.11-12

(Feb. 9, 2012) Public Transportation: Park at any one of the nine light rail park-and-ride lots and ride METRO light rail to Central Station located at Van Buren between Central Ave and First Ave.  The festival site is about a half-mile walking distance or you can catch one of two Valley Metro bus routes from the station:  westbound Rt. 3 on Van Buren or northbound Rt. 15 on the north side of the station.  Signs at Central Station indicate where the bus stops and picks up passengers.  Please check the on-line trip planner to figure out how to get to and from the festival site and be aware of the bus detours.

Please note that WEEKEND BUS SERVICE operates LESS frequently and passengers waiting to catch a city bus to go to the festival site may be required to wait 30-60 minutes for the next scheduled bus to arrive. Bus routes will be on detour beginning February 9 and will continue through February 11. Please click here for impacted service.

Go to www.ValleyMetro.org to plan your trip on transit and find fare information. 

All-day passes are $3.50 and available at kiosks at all light rail stations. It is less expensive to purchase your pass in advance then on-board a Valley Metro bus. For a complete list of retail outlets selling All-day passes, click here.

Centennial Transit Pass Celebration & Giveaway

Phoenix, AZ (December 21, 2011) The Old West comes riding into downtown Phoenix on Friday, January 6 to announce the arrival of the 2012 Commemorative Arizona Centennial Transit Pass as a way to celebrate Arizona’s 100th birthday.

Before buses and light rail trains traveled on Phoenix streets, Valley residents rode horses and walked to get to their destinations. As a reminder of days gone by, Valley Metro and METRO light rail will be distributing 500 keepsake Commemorative Centennial All-day transit passes at Central Station and key passenger points along the METRO light rail line. While the keepsake passes can be used for modern-day travel, Valley Metro is offering them for a limited time in 2012.

“While offering a modern, multi-modal transit system in 2012 to serve the Valley, we have a rich transit history that dates back to the late 1800s with horse-pulled coaches,” said METRO CEO Steve Banta.  “During this time of Arizona’s Centennial, we are paying respect to our history and providing a commemorative keepsake that we hope our riders enjoy.”

Costumed actors representing the horse and buggy days will be at Central Station, then boarding light rail at 7 a.m. to distribute All-day passes to riders who are traveling westbound to Montebello and 19th Avenue and eastbound to the Tempe Transportation Center and Sycamore Station. One pass per person please. Passengers can take their photo with the actors and post it to Valley Metro’s and/or METRO light rail’s Facebook pages to have the opportunity to receive a prize including a gift certificate to the Stockyards Restaurant to enjoy the special Arizona Centennial menu, a family four-pack of Centennial transit passes and Centennial merchandise.

January 6 Event Itinerary:

• 6 a.m.-7 a.m.: Actors and a four-legged means of transportation at Central Station distributing Commemorative Centennial All-day passes.
• 7 a.m.-8 a.m.: Actors board trains for east and westbound destinations distributing Commemorative Centennial All-day passes to light rail passengers and at transit center stops.

The Centennial transit pass can be purchased beginning January 3, 2012 at transit centers and on January 1 at fare vending machines located at seven light rail stations listed at ValleyMetro.org. Participating retail outlets will also have the Centennial pass available. A complete list of retail outlets selling passes can be found at ValleyMetro.org.

The All-day pass and All-day Reduced pass is available at transit centers, retail outlets and at ValleyMetro.org. The seven light rail station fare vending machines will dispense the Centennial pass in any denomination except the one-ride fare. For a complete list of retail outlets, go to ValleyMetro.org. The Centennial transit pass, which can be used for travel on the Valley Metro system now, is available while supplies last.

For more information, go to www.ValleyMetro.org or call 602.253.5000.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.
 

Transit Services Continues In Unicorporated Areas

Contact: Dawn Zimmer, Maricopa County Human Services Department
602/506-4838, zimmerd@mail.maricopa.gov

PHOENIX, Ariz. – Maricopa County Human Services Department and the Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) confirmed an agreement supporting the continuation of a reduced fare, taxi-based model of transportation services for residents 65 years or older and ADA-certified residents with transit barriers residing in unincorporated areas of Maricopa County.

As a member of the Regional Public Transportation Authority, Maricopa County is entitled to receive funds from Local Transportation Assistance Fund II (LTAF II) consisting of monies deposited from the State lottery fund and the Americans with Disabilities Act Public Transportation Funds (ADA PTF aka Prop 400). Trish Georgeff, Director, Maricopa County Human Services Department explains, “Had an agreement not been confirmed obligated LTAF ‘mobility service’ funds could have expired and been returned.”

“The agreement with RPTA will benefit eligible passengers who travel throughout the County by contributing toward a regional transit system,” said Georgeff, “We are delighted state Lottery dollars will continue to be put to good use as initially intended; supporting cities, towns, and most importantly eligible individuals relying on this reduced fare, direct-route transportation assistance through RPTA.”

The agreement assigns RPTA with the responsibility of administering Maricopa County allocations of LTAF II and ADA PTF to provide fixed-route or taxi-based ADA transportation services. The LTAF II and ADA PTF funding will be used to support a taxi-based model for door-to-door transportation services to ADA-qualified individuals within unincorporated Maricopa County and fixed route bus services.

“Maricopa County has always been an important partner in providing transit services to the residents that need it most,” said David Boggs, Valley Metro executive director. “The County understands the value in working to regionalize our transit programs for older and ADA-certified residents.”

County residents over the age of 65 years or disabled (unable to utilize fixed-route bus service due to physical or cognitive disability) in unincorporated areas of Maricopa County are encouraged to contact Valley Metro regarding eligibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by calling the Valley Metro Certification office at (602) 716-2100, TTY (602) 251-2039 or by downloading the ADA certification form.

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About Maricopa County Human Services Department
Maricopa County’s Human Services Department is primarily grant funded and focuses on providing education, employment, shelter and basic needs services to individuals, families and communities to enhance opportunities for physical, social and economic wellbeing. Additional information about specific programs/services offered is available online at www.hsd.maricopa.gov.

About Valley Metro/RPTA
Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance.  Funding is provided by local and federal revenues.  A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Visit www.valleymetro.org for additional information.

Transit Receives $4 Million in Federal Grants for Green Projects

PHOENIX, AZ — METRO light rail and Valley Metro/RPTA have each received a TIGGER III (Transit Investments for Greenhouse Gas and Energy Reduction) grant award together totaling more than $4 million for energy-saving projects.  Forty-six total projects were selected nationwide following a review of more than 250 applications.

METRO will use its $2.7 million grant to build a solar shade canopy to cover stored light rail vehicles at the Operations and Maintenance Center.  The canopy will cover an expanse of 142,000 square feet and provide crucial shading to light rail vehicles while also generating enough electricity to satisfy nearly 100 percent of the maintenance facility’s power needs.  METRO will seek private sector support to develop the project.

Valley Metro is being awarded $1.3 million to retrofit as many as 70 buses with an innovative electric engine cooling fan system that is cost effective and lowers pollutant emissions.  Energy savings are anticipated with a nine percent reduction in fuel consumption.  The original idea for the cooling system is developed from military vehicles and now being applied to transit buses.

“We appreciate the support from the FTA to innovate transit operations in the Valley,” said METRO CEO Steve Banta.  “The infusion of federal dollars will put people to work as well as generate long-term operational cost savings.  Transit investment is a solution to the stalled economy.”

TIGGER is a Federal Transit Administration competitive grant program that supports transit capital investments that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and/or energy use.  The FTA seeks out projects that enhance operational efficiencies, demonstrate innovation and help achieve agency and federal sustainability goals.

Click here for more information on the TIGGER III grant program and Fiscal Year 2011 award recipients.

Photos are available upon request.

About METRO 

METRO is responsible for the development and operation of the region’s high-capacity transit system.  The first 20-mile light rail line opened December 2008 and served 12.6 million riders in 2010, exceeding the prior year by 11 percent.  METRO serves an average of 40,000 riders each weekday while also planning for six extensions that will create a 57-mile system by 2031.

About Valley Metro/RPTA 

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance.  Funding is provided by local and federal revenues.  A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

Give Input at Fare Change Public Hearings

Phoenix (Nov. 14, 2011) Changes to bus and light rail fares will be discussed at public hearings in November and December. A price increase would impact the cost to ride the bus and light rail as early as July 2012. The current one-ride fare of $1.75 would possibly increase to $2.00 and the All-day pass purchased in advance would cost riders $4.00 instead of the current cost of $3.50. The 31-day pass would increase from $55.00 to $64.00 and the Express 31-day pass price would change from $85.00 to $96.00. Click here for details on all proposed fare prices.

“Asking riders to consider paying a higher fare for transit service is never easy,” said Dave Boggs, Valley Metro executive director. “We know that transit service is important and that riders are willing to pay a little more to keep the service they need to get to work, school and vital appointments.”

In addition, Phoenix and East Valley ADA Dial-a-Ride services, the Arizona State University U-Pass, and the Platinum Pass will also be impacted by the fare change. Valley Metro plans to introduce a new 15-day pass and eliminate the 3-day pass due to its limited use.

If approved, the rural route fare structure will be simplified to a fare of $4.00 ($2.00 Reduced fare) per one-way trip. Rural Route 685 provides service between Ajo, Gila Bend and Phoenix.

To maintain a business standard established by the Valley Metro Board of Directors, the agency has a goal to recover at least 25 percent of the cost of transit operations from fares. Changes to fares will be considered every three years to help retain the 25 percent goal.  Currently, passengers are paying about 23 percent of their cost to ride bus and light rail and that amount continues to decrease as the cost of operations continues to rise. Many transit agencies across the United States are experiencing budgetary struggles. According to the American Public Transit Association (APTA), nearly eight in ten transit agencies (79%) have cut service or raised fares or are considering either of these actions.

The public meetings are designed to collect input that will then be presented to the Valley Metro Board of Directors next spring for consideration and approval. The remaining fare change public meetings are scheduled for:

Tuesday, January 3, 2012
101 N. 1st Avenue, 10th Floor – Lake PowellConference Room
Phoenix, 85003
12:00-12:30 p.m. Open House
12:30-1:15 p.m. Presentation

Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Transit Management Committee meeting
101 N. 1st Ave. 10th floor - Lake Powell Conference Room
Phoenix, AZ
Meeting begins at 11:00 a.m.

Public comment at hearings and meeting accepted through January, 4, 2012.

Valley Metro transit fares can be purchased in advance at more than 400 retail outlets throughout the Valley, city halls, public libraries, transit centers, fare vending machines at METRO light rail stations, online at ValleyMetro.org, and through an Automatic Mail Plan by calling (602) 495-5795.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

Board Moves Towards Single CEO for Transit Agencies

Phoenix, AZ (Oct. 27, 2011)  The Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) Board of Directors has been working towards naming a successor for the agency after David A. Boggs announced his retirement effective December 31, 2011. Today, at the RPTA Board meeting, a unanimous decision was made to identify the current METRO Light Rail Chief Executive Officer, Stephen R. Banta as the candidate for the joint Executive Director/CEO for both RPTA and METRO. An independent legal firm will be negotiating with Banta to draft an employment agreement.

The RPTA and METRO Boards will meet again in November for continued discussion and possible approval of the employment agreement.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

METRO is responsible for the development and operation of the region’s high-capacity transit system. The first 20-mile light rail line opened December 2008 and planning is underway for six additional extensions that will create a 57-mile system by 2031.
               
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Clean Air Campaign winners announced

Phoenix, AZ (Oct. 26, 2011) What do IKEA, Scottsdale Healthcare, City of Mesa and the Boeing Company all have in common? These employers, among several other Valley organizations and 11 individuals, received top awards at the 24th annual Clean Air Campaign luncheon. Thanks to their outstanding efforts to improve air quality and comply with the Maricopa County Trip Reduction Program, they are helping to create a cleaner environment and encourage greater sustainability in their daily commute activities. The awards, which ranged from outstanding carpooler to corporate sustainability, are a way to honor year-long efforts to reduce commute-related emissions and traffic congestion.

As a lead sponsor of the event, SRP partnered with Valley Metro at the annual luncheon held at the J.W. Marriott Desert Ridge. Organizations sponsoring the Clean Air Campaign include the Arizona Departments of Environmental Quality and Transportation, Maricopa Association of Governments, Maricopa County Air Quality Department and Valley Metro.

The 2011 Clean Air Campaign winners recognized today:

Outstanding Transportation Coordinator – 50-149 employees
Juan Barreto – Area Agency on Aging

Outstanding Transportation Coordinator – 150-499 employees
Katie Dunham – Equity Fund Advisors, Inc.

Outstanding Transportation Coordinator – Over 500 employees – Public Employer
Sue Taaffe – City of Tempe

Outstanding Transportation Coordinator – Over 500 employees – Private Employer
Diane Reega – Arizona Biltmore

Outstanding Trip Reduction Program – 50-149 employees
Friendship Village of Tempe

Outstanding Trip Reduction Program – 150-499 employees
IKEA Tempe

Outstanding Trip Reduction Program – Over 500 – Public Employer
Maricopa County

Outstanding Trip Reduction Program – Over 500 employees – Private Employer
Scottsdale Healthcare

Outstanding Leadership
Jamsheed Mehta – City of Glendale

Outstanding Marketing & Creativity – Electronic and/or Print Media
City of Mesa

Outstanding Marketing & Creativity – Marketing Event or Campaign Under $500
Equity Fund Advisors, Inc.

Outstanding Marketing & Creativity – Marketing Event or Campaign Over $500
Capitol Rideshare – State of Arizona

Outstanding Telework Program
Scottsdale Insurance Company

Outstanding Bike Program
City of Tempe

Outstanding Vanpool Program
Scottsdale Healthcare

Outstanding Transit Rider (bus or light rail)
Cindi Farmer – ASU

Outstanding Carpooler
Mike Dugan & Rose Barton – ASU

Outstanding Vanpooler
Ron Gilbert – Boeing Company

Outstanding Bicyclist or Walker
Jody Rockmaker – ASU

Outstanding Multi-modal Commuter
Dr. Rajni L. Nair – ASU

MAG Livable Communities
City of Glendale

Maricopa County Air Quality Excellence
State of Arizona Office of Travel Reduction Programs

Corporate Sustainability
IKEA Tempe

People’s Choice Bulletin Board
Area Agency on Aging

Rideshare Week 2011 Employer Challenge Winners

Small Company: WorldatWork

Medium Company: Desert Mountain Club

Large Company: SRP

Blue Sky Award
Total Transit

Photos from the event will be posted to this site—check back with us in early November.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.                           
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Find out more about your NextRide

Phoenix, AZ (Aug. 9, 2011) Valley Metro riders can take the guess work out of riding the bus and light rail. New signs, which feature NextRide—a way to instantly get next bus and train arrival times—are being installed at each of Valley Metro’s 7,465 bus stops and light rail stations through January 2012.

“Bus and train arrival information is the number one question that we get from passengers that call our customer service line,” said Scott Wisner, Customer Service Manager. “NextRide will take the worry out of knowing when the next bus or train arrives.”

Using Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology, NextRide is simple to use for anyone at a stop having a cell phone or internet access. By texting or calling, the passenger will enter the unique stop identification (ID) number and receive the next arrival times for the light rail train, bus route or routes served by that station or stop. A web page is also dedicated to this passenger feature, which will provide stop locator information.

The Valley Metro Customer Service call center receives more than 8,000 calls per day and 55 percent of those are next bus or train arrival-time questions. The funding for this service enhancement was provided by a federal Job Access Reverse Commute (JARC) grant and regional public transportation funds from the countywide half-cent sales tax approved by voters in 2004.

Installation began on Thursday, August 4 with signs installed for stops on Route 3 beginning at the Phoenix Zoo and traveling westward. Installation should be complete by January 2012, however, passengers can begin using the system now by going to the website and using the stop ID locator on the NextRide page or on the Valley Metro trip planner page.

Other transit systems having this type of automated communication system include San Francisco Muni, Washington D.C. Metro, Los Angeles Metro, New Jersey Transit, Denver RTD, and Tri-Met in Portland.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

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Mesa Conducts Public Hearing on Buzz Circulator

As part of the annual budget process, the city of Mesa is considering changes to the current route of the Buzz.

Click here for a public hearing flyer in both English and Spanish.

The proposed changes would be effective July 25, 2011 and include:

• eliminating service in downtown Mesa south of First Street between Center Street and Country Club Drive;
• eliminating service on University Drive between Extension and MacDonald; and
• adding three trips each day to serve the retail area at Brown Road and Mesa Drive.

Staff will be at the Buzz stop at the Mesa Multi-Gen Center on Tuesday, April 26 from 1 pm – 5 pm and Wednesday, April 27 from 8 am – noon if you would like to comment on the proposed route changes.  Comments can also be emailed to jodi.sorrell@mesaaz.gov or mailed to Jodi Sorrell, City of Mesa Transit Services Department, P.O. Box 1466, Mesa, AZ 85211-1466 no later than Friday, April 29, 2011.  For additional information, visit www.mesaaz.gov/transportation.

Valley Metro Receives Statewide and National Honors

Phoenix, AZ (April 21, 2011)  The Valley Metro Mobility Center, which began providing service to customers on March 1, 2011, was awarded the top honors in transit innovation by the Arizona Transit Association (AzTA) and the Arizona Department of Transportation during AzTA’s annual conference in Mesa, Arizona. 

The Outstanding Transit Innovation recognizes an individual, organization or group that has demonstrated innovative program creation, development, management and/or delivery for the public transportation service.

“The Mobility Center is a goal realized, but only the first of many to provide a more efficient way of providing transit and alternative travel for those who rely on it most,” said David A. Boggs, Valley Metro RPTA executive director.

The intent of the Mobility Center, which is located at 4600 E. Washington, is the home of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) eligibility determinations for the Valley.  The mobility assessment area, known as the Transit Walk, features a life-sized mock streetscape and transit system to lessen the intimidation of being a new rider. This unique facility will also serve as home base for Valley Metro’s travel training programs. 

A full-size bus and bus shelter are part of the indoor landscape, as well as varied pavement and ground applications. Input on the development of the Mobility Center was considered by a paratransit technical advisory committee and a regional paratransit stakeholders group. 
Also in April, Valley Metro was awarded with 11 prestigious Telly Awards for the Notes Campaign, which is intended to help educate new and existing passengers on the basics of riding transit in the Valley using an animated video message. The Telly’s recognize local advertisers, TV stations and production companies with national recognition.

Valley Metro received seven prestigious Telly Awards for areas including animation and four People’s Telly Awards from the online, global community for the How to Ride the Bus and How to Ride the Light Rail videos.  The informational videos feature local bands What Laura Says and Elvis Before Noon. The Notes Campaign began in November 2010, and to date there have been six videos released covering various topics most important to passengers. To view the videos online, click here.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

New park-and-ride lot now open at 7th Ave & Camelback

What:
Try transit!  New park-and-ride lot now open.
Breakfast celebration featuring the Suns, free transit passes set for Wed., 3/23, morning

The ARRA-funded 7th Avenue/Camelback park-and-ride has opened offering METRO light rail passengers additional and shaded parking.  The lot will provide greater access to the transit system and is well-timed considering the growth in ridership and gas prices.

To celebrate the lot’s opening, METRO, in partnership with the City of Phoenix, the Phoenix Suns and Hunter Contracting Co., will offer free breakfast and transit passes to those who want to try transit the morning of March 23!

Come down to be some of the first to park in the new lot, grab breakfast from neighboring food purveyors Copper Star Coffee, America’s Best Taco Shop and Fry’s and enjoy the energy of the Phoenix Suns Gorilla!  Finally, hop on board light rail with one of the 100 free all-day transit passes provided by Hunter. 

There will also be an opportunity to enter a drawing for Phoenix Suns/US Airways Center ticket packages!

When:
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
7:30 – 9 a.m.; comments at 8 a.m.

Where:
West end of the 7th Avenue/Camelback park-and-ride lot.  The lot is located on the southeast corner of the intersection.

Who:
All riders, new and existing, and neighboring residents and business owners of the lot are encouraged to attend.

Speakers will include:
METRO CEO Steve Banta
METRO Board Chairman and Phoenix Councilman Tom Simplot
Representative from Hunter Contracting Co.
The Phoenix Suns Gorilla

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Rural Bus Route 660 Surveys Begin in December

Phoenix, AZ (Dec. 1, 2010)  Valley Metro is asking members of the communities living or working near the rural bus Route 660, which travels along Bell Road and US-60 between Arrowhead Towne Center in Glendale and West Plaza in Wickenburg, to provide their travel information. The data gathered in the survey process will be used to enhance the rural bus route that makes four roundtrips each weekday and has about 5,000 boardings annually. Major stops along the route include the Sun City West Foundation, Wells Country Store in Wittmann, and the Wickenburg Municipal Complex.

The surveying process will include questionnaires on-board the Route 660 vehicles, postcard mailings and telephone calls to residents living one mile from the route, and employer surveys of businesses along the route.

Organizations, associations or community centers along the route area that would like to participate in a Route 660 survey are asked to contact Valley Metro at 602.262.7433 for more information.

To learn more about Route 660, go to valleymetro.org. This route is funded by Proposition 400, a transportation sales tax that was approved by Maricopa County voters in 2004, and federal transit funds.

Valley Metro RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local and federal revenues. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

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Tell Your Transit Story

The Arizona Transit Association (AzTA) wants to hear from you!

We are urging transit users and advocates to “tell us your transit story.”  Whether it’s been a helpful bus driver, a trip to pick up medicine or a doctor visit,  an ongoing work or school trip, or a light rail ride to a Suns game—AzTA wants to hear about it. Maybe it’s been a reduction or elimination of service that has impacted your life. If so, AzTA wants to know about your experiences using public transportation.

Please use the link below to the “Tell AzTA Your Transit Story” survey.  Together, we can illustrate the vital role that transit plays in the lives of Arizona residents and help elected officials and fellow citizens understand the critical role of this community asset.  AzTA will assemble these stories at AzTA.org along with other public transportation news and issues. 

Click here to tell AzTA your story.

Thank you,

Arizona Transit Association

Historical fleet depart Central Station

The three historical vehicles made their final trips as they left Central Station last week. The site begins renovation in mid-July and the existing space where the historical fleet sits will be needed for growth and development of the Station.

The Tico bus and the Metropolitan Lines bus will be towed away and brought to their new home at the Phoenix Public Transit Department’s South Operating Facility.

The third historical vehicle—the President’s Conference Committee Car, originally from Toronto—will call the Arizona Railway Museum in Chandler its new
home.

New Mobility Center Approved

Phoenix, AZ (June 18, 2010)  As a part of the overall strategy to develop a regional paratransit system in the Valley for passengers that are eligible under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Valley Metro Board unanimously approved a new site to conduct in-person interviews and functional assessments for the ADA paratransit eligibility program.

The new facility, located at 4600 E. Washington, fully met the criteria requiring a central location, close proximity to light rail and bus service, and easy access to freeways.

The process to better regionalize ADA paratransit from the existing eight systems began in 2006 with the Regional Paratransit Study. One of the initial elements of the study is to develop an in-person eligibility determination process for the ADA paratransit service. The new facility will be equipped to handle in-person interviews and as-needed testing of individuals in real-life settings, such as street crossings and a streetscape that includes ramps and various surfaces. It is estimated that the new Mobility Center will be fully operational in January 2011 and will manage about 350 eligibility applications per month.

In addition to housing the ADA eligibility program, the Mobility Center will serve as a resource for customers with special mobility needs to access other transportation programs that may meet their needs.

In a separate action taken by the Board, the Regional Public Transportation Authority will relocate from their existing office site to 101 N. 1st Avenue, which is the current location of METRO light rail. This move will allow the agencies to work in an environment that fosters a more coordinated planning and operational effort.

Valley Metro/RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail,  a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, and bicycle and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local, state and federal revenues; and administered by a board of 16 governments working to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

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New Transit Book Details Service Changes

Phoenix, AZ (Jan. 5, 2010)  Valley Metro passengers riding in Avondale, Chandler, Tempe and Scottsdale should be sure to check their bus routes in the newest edition of the Transit Book before they board on Monday, January 25. Changes in service are occurring on 22 bus routes including the Tempe Orbit circulator bus routes.

“Reducing bus service is never easy, but it’s a trend that the transit industry is experiencing across the country,” said David Boggs, Valley Metro RPTA executive director. “Plans to continue expanding our regional transit system are definitely on hold in 2010.” One exception to future service expansion is the addition of the LINK bus rapid transit route on Arizona Avenue and Country Club Drive in July 2010, which begins construction this month with federal stimulus dollars.

With the slow economy and resulting decline in sales tax revenues, cities and towns are struggling to meet the current operations costs of existing routes, which has lead to adjustments in levels of service. Transit service is funded from a combination of local and regional sales taxes. Fares provide approximately 25 percent of the cost of operations.

Transit Books will be available to the public beginning January 18. Books are available at libraries, transit centers, city halls and on buses.

The Transit Book is a 300-page comprehensive resource that passengers rely on for accurate information about riding transit. In addition to offering the schedules and maps for more the than 80 bus routes and METRO light rail, the Transit Book features information in English and Spanish about fares, fare sales locations, and tips on how to ride the bus or light rail.

Valley Metro/RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail,  a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, and bicycle and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local, state and federal revenues; and administered by a board of 15 governments working to improve and regionalize the public transit system.  

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WTS Woman of the Year Announced

Phoenix, AZ (Dec. 15, 2009) 

Transportation industry association, WTS, has named Carol Ketcherside, Deputy Executive Director of Planning for Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA), the 2009 Woman of the Year for the Metropolitan Phoenix chapter.

Ketcherside, a north Phoenix resident, began her career in transportation 25 years ago, which included working for the Topeka Metropolitan Transit Authority in Topeka, Kansas and VIA Metropolitan Transit in San Antonio, Texas. For 12 years she served as the executive director of the South West Transit Association (SWTA).

Since joining the RPTA in November 2006, her transit-related accomplishments have included:

• Completion and ongoing implementation of the Valley Metro Regional Paratransit Study, which includes intense involvement from the disability community, member agency concurrence, and gaining approval of a new program requiring in-person assessments for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) eligibility.
• Leading the planning and development of several Proposition 400 projects including the Mesa Main Street LINK Bus Rapid Transit service, regional bus stops and park-and-rides.
• Involvement with regional planning activities including commuter rail studies, and the Maricopa Association of Governments Transit Framework Study.
• Serving as a mentor for career-minded women in the WTS Mentorship Program.

“Our agency is honored to have Carol’s unlimited collection of skills and talents to direct our planning efforts,” said David A. Boggs, Valley Metro RPTA executive director. “Despite unending challenges, her ability to gain consensus both within the disability community and our member agencies has been extremely valuable in the development of a vital regional transit program.”

Ketcherside earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree at the University of Kansas. She is also affiliated with the following transit-related industry associations: American Public Transportation Association, Community Transportation Association of America, a Federal Transit Administration advisory committee, South West Transit Association, WTS, and Transit Cooperative Research Program.

Valley Metro/RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail,  a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, and bicycle and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local, state and federal revenues; and administered by a board of 15 governments working to improve and regionalize the public transit system.                                                                               # # #

Phoenix Offers Taxi Voucher Pilot Program

Phoenix — The Phoenix Public Transit Department is launching a new pilot taxi voucher program for Phoenix seniors aged 65 and over on Dec 2. 

Called Senior Cab, the program allows senior citizens to purchase prepaid vouchers at a discount, which they can use to schedule short-distance cab trips. 

Senior Cab was developed at the request of the Phoenix City Council, which asked the Public Transit Department to explore alternative modes of transporting seniors, as Dial-A-Ride has become increasingly in-demand for Americans With Disabilities Act-certified users with disabilities, and increasingly unavailable to seniors who use the service.

“We know, especially in Phoenix, that our seniors are active and interested in taking charge of their own lives,” said Debbie Cotton, Public Transit Department Director.  “We wanted to find an innovative way to let our senior citizens continue to travel the way they want.  This pilot program is a small step forward in that direction.”

The Senior Cab program will test a different model of transporting older riders, giving approximately 300-400 people a chance to see how the service works.

Cab voucher programs are already used by Phoenix Public Transit to support work trips for people with disabilities, and dialysis visits for passengers undergoing treatment.  Senior Cab allows seniors more flexibility in transportation, letting them schedule trips in the same way they would arrange for a typical taxi ride.

Program participants can buy $10-voucher books, which sell at 30 percent of their value, or $3 apiece; participants can buy a maximum of $12 to receive $40 worth of taxi vouchers monthly.  The vouchers can be used for the entire trip, combined with cash fares to travel further, or banked over several months for a longer trip.  Riders are responsible for their own gratuity in the program. 

The 19-month pilot program is funded by the City of Phoenix and New Freedom funding from the Federal Transit Administration.  People who use the taxi subsidy program will be provided with pre-printed vouchers, and can make appointments with any taxicab company Valley-wide. 

The Senior Cab pilot program is operated by City of Phoenix transit contractor MV Transportation.  To get more information about the taxi subsidy program, call MV Transportation at 602-801-1164 or 602-801-1163.

For more information about public transportation, people with questions should call Valley Metro at 602-253-5000, or visit www.valleymetro.org.   

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Transit Ridership Exceeds 71 Million

An increase of 15 percent over the previous year is a good thing when talking about bus and light rail ridership. Transit ridership, which is measured annually from July to June, indicates that more than 71 million passengers boarded a Valley Metro bus or light rail train to get to work, school, run errands or for pleasure.

“Certainly, in the last six months, overall transit ridership has been boosted by the new METRO light rail service,” said David A. Boggs, Valley Metro RPTA executive director. “We now have a complete transit system with bus and rail connections getting more Valley residents and visitors out of their cars.”  Now offering light rail service, the cities of Mesa, Phoenix and Tempe experienced double-digit increases in transit ridership. Click here for a listing of all city-by-city transit ridership.

Statistics also show that more riders are using bicycles to complete their transit trips, with 1.46 million bikes carried on buses in the past year, an increase of 9.4 percent over 2008.

Annual Ridership
Bus 65,670,807 (2008-09)
Bus 61,866,836 (2007-08)
Light rail 5,580,860 (Jan-June 2009)
Combined 71,251,667 (2008-2009)

Along with an increase in ridership, there also has been an increase in satisfied transit riders. According to a recent rider survey, nearly four in five (79 percent) of transit riders said they are highly likely to be riding transit one year from now and would recommend the service to others.  Nearly 70 percent of riders say they have a high level of satisfaction with transit service in the Valley, and there is a significant increase (5 percent) of those indicating they are “very satisfied” with public transit service. The survey was conducted in May 2009 and has a margin of error at 3.7 percent.

Valley Metro/RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail,  a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, and bicycle and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local, state and federal revenues; and administered by a board of 15 governments working to improve and regionalize the public transit system.

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2009 Clean Air Campaign Awards Luncheon

Buy Fares at 150 Locations in the Valley

There are more than 150 places across the Valley, including Safeway and Fry’s Food grocery stores, where bus riders can purchase fares to help save money after prices increase on July 1.

“We want to make it easier for passengers to buy their fares at locations where it’s convenient for them,” said Mario Diaz, Chief Marketing Officer. “We have added more than 70 new fare sales outlets in the past 30 days, and hope to add more locations this year.”

The cost for a one-ride trip on the Valley Metro local bus, METRO light rail and the LINK bus (limited-stop service between Superstition Springs Center and Sycamore Station in Mesa) will now cost $1.75, and an All-day pass is $3.50. Purchasing an All-day pass on-board the local/LINK bus will cost $5.25.  An express bus or RAPID (commuter bus service) all-day pass will be $5.50 in advance, or $7.25 on board the bus.

So, riders are asked to plan ahead after July 1. Passengers who purchase an All-day pass at a light rail platform fare vending machine or at a sales location prior to boarding a local bus can save $1.75 off of the on-board bus full-fare price. Another significant change effective July 1 is the acceptance of $5 bills on-board the bus.

The local fare of $1.25 for a single ride on a bus has not increased since 1994, although the most recent fare change occurred in 2007 with new 31-day pass pricing and the elimination of transfer slips. Other day passes and reduced day passes will also increase except for the 7-day pass. A passenger purchasing a 7-day pass will get seven days of rides for the price of five.

For a complete listing of fare prices and fare sales locations effective July 1, click here.
For a list of Q & A about the new fares, click here.

Valley Metro/RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail,  a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, and bicycle and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local, state and federal revenues; and administered by a board of 15 governments working to improve and regionalize the public transit system. www.ValleyMetro.org. 

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Free online tool matches carpoolers

PHOENIX (June 15, 2009) – Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority today unveiled a free online tool called ‘ShareTheRide’ at www.ValleyMetro.org to help local residents track how much pollution their commute generates or find a carpool partner.

Using a Web application called RideShark – developed by Commuting Solutions of Ottawa, Canada – the ‘ShareTheRide’ system incorporates the most current technology and mapping features so individuals can personally manage their commutes, track costs or pollution, and opt in and out of actively looking for carpool partners. Ultimately, ShareTheRide also will allow users to join a vanpool, map the best bus or light rail route, or find a bike route.

Phoenix is the largest U.S. city to deploy this tool, according to Commuting Solutions.

“We know some people may want to change their commuting habits to save money or help the environment,” says David Boggs, executive director of Valley Metro RPTA. “By offering a ride-matching and mapping system, those who are on-the-fence or unsure about how to use public transportation may find the assistance they need to try.”

Following a beta test period that began in April, more than 3,200 residents across greater Phoenix are using ShareTheRide to seek a carpool partner or track their pollution. When residents create a personal profile and log how they travel in an online calendar, an emissions calculator shows how much pollution they’ve saved or produced.

Sharing the ride can help Valley air quality, reduce wear and tear on a vehicle, or save money on gas. According to the Maricopa Association of Governments, personal vehicles are among the largest, non-industrial contributors to ground-level ozone – a harmful, odorless gas that plagues Arizona April through September.

Businesses are using the tool to host internal contests that encourage employees to drive less and track how they commute to work, thereby helping businesses meet their requirements under Maricopa County’s Trip Reduction Program.

The new ‘ShareTheRide’ system replaces a previous service through Valley Metro that only matched carpoolers.

Valley Metro/RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, and bicycle and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local, state and federal revenues; and administered by a board of 15 governments working to improve and regionalize the public transit system. www.ValleyMetro.org.

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Transportation Public Hearing

New Fares for Bus and Rail Transit Riders on July 1

Phoenix, AZ (June 1, 2009)  Bus and rail fares are increasing on Wednesday, July 1, 2009. Riders are asked to plan ahead, especially for purchasing an All-day bus fare. Passengers who purchase an All-day pass at a light rail platform fare vending machine or at one of 80 select locations and stores prior to boarding a local bus can save $1.75 off of the on-board bus full-fare price.

The cost for a one-ride trip on the Valley Metro local bus, METRO light rail and the LINK bus (limited-stop service between Superstition Springs Center and Sycamore Station in Mesa) will now cost $1.75, and an All-day pass is $3.50. Purchasing an All-day pass at the farebox on the local/LINK bus will cost $5.25.  An express bus or RAPID (commuter bus service) all-day pass will be $5.50 in advance, or $7.25 at the farebox. Other day passes and reduced day passes will also increase except for the 7-day pass. A passenger purchasing a 7-day pass will get seven days of rides for the price of five. Getting on the bus with pre-purchased fares, such as an All-day, 3-day, 7-day, or 31-day pass means faster boarding, which helps keep the bus on schedule.

“We understand the financial burden this places on our bus and rail passengers in the Valley and we’d prefer that the fares weren’t going up,” said David A. Boggs, Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) executive director. Valley Metro’s funding is based on sales tax revenues, which has declined significantly while the cost to provide service continues to increase.

To keep pace with bus/light rail fares, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Dial-a-Ride fares for East Valley and Phoenix are increasing. For a complete listing of fare prices effective July 1

Valley Metro/RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail,  a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, and bicycle and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local, state and federal revenues; and administered by a board of 15 governments working to improve and regionalize the public transit system. www.ValleyMetro.org                                                                  # # #

METRO Extends Weekend Service

05/22/09 01:00 PM - Until further notice

The METRO Board of Directors approved a measure that will extend METRO’s service hours on Friday night/Saturday morning and Saturday night/Sunday morning until past 2 a.m. The measure was brought before the Board as result of both passenger feedback and input from businesses along the line.

Beginning as early as July 1, METRO will offer its last full trip of the day at 2 a.m. Saturday and Sunday mornings, arriving at the opposite end of the line at 3 a.m. METRO will continue to provide 20-minute service in this extended period.

The estimated fiscal and maintenance impact for extended weekend service is $254,500 annually to the METRO operating budget.
The Board also stipulated that an evaluation of ridership and costs associated with the service extension occur after six months.
For more METRO information, visit www.metrolightrail.org.

Hearings On ADA Paratransit Eligibility Process

Contact:
Susan Tierney
Public Information Officer
602.262.4668
stierney@valleymetro.org

Phoenix, AZ (March 16, 2009)  Residents of Maricopa County are encouraged to offer input on a proposal that would change the current process of determining eligibility for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) paratransit certification, which allows access to specific paratransit (Dial-a-Ride) services in the Valley. The intention of ADA paratransit service is to provide access to transportation services for customers who, because of a disability, are prevented from using the fixed route bus system. The ADA requires that paratransit service is offered within three-fourths of a mile of any local, fixed route transit route.

All public hearings, with the exception of the online meeting (webinar), will begin at 5 p.m. with an open house:

• Tues., March 31: Grace United Methodist Church, Fellowship Hall, 2024 E. University Drive, Mesa, 85213
• Wed., April 1: Glendale Community College, Student Union, 6000 W. Olive Ave., Glendale, 84302
• Mon., April 6: Tempe Transportation Center, 200 E. Fifth Street, 2nd floor, Tempe, 85281
• Tues., April 7: Travis L. Williams Family Service Center, 4732 S. Central Ave., Phoenix, 85040

Comments can also be made by sending an email by April 17 to: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

To download a copy of the presentation, please click here.

The proposal recommends an in-person process for determining ADA paratransit eligibility, coupled with an ADA bus and rail pass, and lifetime certification for some customers. An improved eligibility process will offer equity among applicants and ensure future levels of service offered to those who are truly in need of the transit service. The proposed eligibility process would allow for more personalized and individual service through the assignment of a case manager for each application. Implementation of this program will lay the groundwork for continued improvements to regional ADA paratransit in Maricopa County.

Valley Metro/RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail,  a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, and bicycle and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local, state and federal revenues; and administered by a board of 15 governments working to improve and regionalize the public transit system. www.ValleyMetro.org

All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

 
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Chandler Park-and-Ride Ribbon Cutting on Jan. 28

For Immediate Release

Contact: 
Jim Phipps
Public Information Officer
480-782-2225

Public invited to celebrate Chandler Park-and-Ride opening

CHANDLER, Ariz. – The public is invited to help celebrate the dedication of Chandler’s first Park-and-Ride facility.  A ribbon cutting ceremony is planned for Wednesday, January 28, at 3:00 p.m. at the southwest corner of Germann Road and Hamilton Street.

Mayor Boyd W. Dunn will speak during the ceremony, as well the Executive Director of Valley Metro, Dave Boggs. 

The $6.4 million facility opened December 29 and supports express bus service to and from Phoenix, Tempe and Scottsdale and added needed parking spaces for weekend events at Tumbleweed Park.  The facility includes 445 parking spaces, plus passenger shelters, bike lockers, seating areas, lighting, landscaping, a drinking fountain, and security building. The half-cent regional sales tax approved by voters in 2004 that funds transit and transportation in Maricopa County is providing funds for this new facility.

For more information, call 480-782-3440.

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Fare Changes Q & A

Ridership solid on new routes

Phoenix, AZ (August 28, 2008)  Demand for express bus service was apparent from the very first day of service on three out of four new express bus routes. Funded by the countywide half-cent sales tax extended by Maricopa County voters in 2004, new and expanded bus service could not have arrived too soon.

“This is a perfect example of challenge meeting opportunity, and it has resulted in a positive outcome,” said David A. Boggs, Valley Metro executive director. Boggs refers to the ongoing need to combat volatile fuel prices this year by offering more transit alternatives. Valley Metro not only offers bus service, but transit alternatives including an online carpool matching system, a vanpool program and assistance with employer trip reduction programs.

Buses serving these routes are new and designed for express bus service:

• Buses are 40 ft. long and have a seated capacity of 36 and average standing capacity of 18
• The air conditioning system is high capacity built for the desert climate—and the refrigerant is R407c, which will not harm upper atmosphere ozone
• Fueled by Compressed Natural Gas, they have the latest in engine technology and meets federal emissions standards
• Buses are equipped with Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) to monitor activity of the bus
• Cost is $431,350 each and also funded by Proposition 400
• They are built by New Flyer in Winnipeg and assembled in Minnesota

On Monday, July 28, new routes were implemented and the first four weeks of ridership are shown below.

In addition to new service, Valley Metro expanded service on routes 61, 96 and 660 on July 28.

A registered nurse at Chandler Regional Hospital rides the Route 96 bus four days a week. “It’s a great way to get some exercise by walking to and from the bus stops,” she said. “I hope more people start riding Route 96. It’s easy and it’s a benefit to the environment.” She added that her employer subsidizes the bus pass so it’s also a great way to save money.

Route 277 Seasonal Service Ends on April 20

Route 277 was implemented as a seasonal pilot program. The route was scheduled to operate between October 2012 and April 2013. As part of the current city of Mesa budget process, the route is being recommended to continue operating as a seasonal route between October 2013 and April 2014.

Check back with this site for ongoing information about Route 277.

July 22, 2013 Transit Service Changes

Service Changes Overview

Route 1—Washington Modify route to end at Sky Train Station.
Route 3—Van Buren Modify route to extend trips that end at 48th Street & Van Buren via South on 44th Street, east on Washington to Priest.  Route 3 will still terminate at the Zoo on some trips.
Route 7—7th Street Schedule adjustment.
Route 10—Roosevelt Modify route to extend trips west to 67th Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road.
Route 15—15th Avenue Routing change into Montebello Transit Center. Bus will travel west on Missouri, north on 19th Avenue, and east on Montebello into Montebello/19th Avenue Transit Center.
Route 16—16th Street Modify route to extend weekday peak trips north to Northern Avenue on 16th Street from Glendale Avenue.
Route 39—40th Street Eliminate Route.
Route 39—40th Street (new) New 40th Street Route between Shea Boulevard and Paradise Valley Community College.
Route 56—Priest Routing change to travel south on Priest to Ray Road and west to 48th Street and North on Priest to Botanical Gardens via Phoenix Zoo.
Route 60—Bethany Home Routing change into Montebello Transit Center.  Bus will travel west on Missouri, north on 19th Avenue, and east on Montebello into Montebello/19th Avenue Transit Center. Schedule adjustment.
Route 70— Glendale/24th St Schedule adjustments.
Route 80—Northern Extend route to SR-51 on Northern Avenue, on SR-51 to Shea Boulevard, and on Shea Boulevard to Mayo Clinic at 136th Street. 
Route 106—Peoria/Shea Modify route to end at Paradise Valley Mall Transit Center. Schedule adjustment.
Route 108—Elliot Modify route to travel west on Elliot, south on 48th Street to Frye Road.  Additional peak service to the 40th Street/Pecos Park and Ride.  Increase frequency in Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa to 30 minute service weekdays and 60 minute service on weekends. 
Route 122—Cactus Modify route to end at 19th Avenue and Cactus Road; would no longer serve MetroCenter Transit Center. Schedule adjustment.
Route 136—Gilbert Schedule adjustments.
Route 156 Chandler Modify route to extend the west end of route to 48th Street on Chandler Boulevard.
Route 186—Union Hills Modify route to extend east on Mayo Boulevard to Scottsdale Road.
Central/South Mountain RAPID Eliminate two morning and two afternoon trips.
Route 277—Baseline Schedule adjustments. Switch from a “pilot route” to a permanent, seasonal route.
Route 511—Tempe/Scottsdale Airpark Express Minor reroute at the north end of the route to near the Scottsdale Airpark. Schedule adjustments.
Route 514—Scottsdale Express Schedule adjustments.
Route 571—Surprise Express Add one morning and one afternoon trip. Schedule adjustments.
Miller Road Trolley Schedule adjustments.

Route-by-Route Service Changes

Local Routes

METRO Light Rail No change.
Mesa Main Street LINK No change.
Arizona Avenue LINK No change.
Grand Avenue Limited No change.
Route 0—Central No change.
Route 1—Washington Modify route to end at Sky Train Station.
Route 3—Van Buren Modify Route to extend trips that end at 48th Street & Van Buren via South on 44th Street, East on Washington to Priest.  Some trips will still terminate at the Phoenix Zoo.
Route 7—7th Street Schedule adjustment.
Route 8—7th Avenue No change.
Route 10—Roosevelt/Grant Extension west to 67th Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road.
Route 12—12th Street No change.
Route 13—Buckeye No change.
Route 15—15th Avenue Routing change into Montebello Transit Center. Bus will travel west on Missouri, north on 19th Avenue, and east on Montebello into Montebello/19th Avenue Transit Center.
Route 16—16th Street Possible extension of weekday peak trips north to Northern Avenue on 16th Street from Glendale Avenue.
Route 17—McDowell No change.
Route 17A—Avondale No change.
Route 19—19th Avenue No change.
19th Avenue Connector No change.
Route 27—27th Avenue No change.
Route 29—Thomas No change.
Route 30—University No change.
Route 35—35th Avenue No change.
Route 39—40th Street Eliminate Route.
Route 39—40th Street (new) New 40th Street Route between Shea Boulevard and Paradise Valley Community College.
Route 40—Apache/Main No change.
Route 41—Indian School No change.
Route 43—43rd Avenue No change.
Route 44—44th Street./Tatum No change.
Route 45—Broadway No change.
Route 48—48th Street No change.
Route 50—Camelback No change.
Route 51—51st Avenue No change.
Route 52—Roeser No change.
Route 56—Priest Routing change to travel south on Priest to Ray Road and west to 48th Street and North on Priest to Botanical Gardens via Phoenix Zoo.
Route 59—59th Avenue No change.
Route 60—Bethany Home Routing change into Montebello Transit Center.  Bus will travel west on Missouri, north on 19th Avenue, and east on Montebello into Montebello/19th Avenue Transit Center. Schedule adjustment.
Route 61—Southern No change.
Route 62—Hardy No change.
Route 65—Mill/Kyrene No change.
Route 66—Mill/Kyrene No change.
Route 67—67th Avenue. No change.
Route 70—Glendale/24th Street Schedule adjustment.
Route 72—Scottsdale/Rural No change.
Route 77—Baseline No change.
Route 80—Northern Extend route to SR-51 on Northern Aveune, on SR-51 to Shea Boulevard, and on Shea Boulevard to Mayo Clinic at 136th Street. 
Route 81—Hayden/McClintock No change.
Route 90—Dunlap/Cave Creek No change.
Route 96—Dobson No change.
Route 104—Alma School No change.
Route 106—Peoria/Cactus Modify route to end at Paradise Valley Mall Transit Center. Schedule adjustment.
Route 108—Elliot Possible Routing change to travel west on Elliot, south on 48th Street to Frye Road.  I Additional peak service to the 40th Street/Pecos Park and Ride. Increase frequency in Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa to 30 minute service weekdays and 60 minute service on weekends. 
Route 112—Country Club/Arizona No change.
Route 120—Mesa Drive No change.
Route 122—Cactus/39th Avenue Possible modification of route to end at 19th Avenue and Cactus Road; would no longer serve MetroCenter Transit Center. Schedule adjustment.
Route 128—Stapley No change.
Route 136—Gilbert Possible schedule adjustments.
Route 138—Thunderbird No change.
Route 154—Greenway No change.
Route 156—Chandler Boulevard
Route 170—Bell No change.
Route 184—Power No change.
Route 186—Union Hills Modify route to extend east on Mayo Boulevard to Scottsdale Road
Route 251—51st Avenue No change.
Route 277—Baseline Schedule adjustments. Switch from “Pilot” route to permanent, seasonal route.

Circulator Routes

GUS 1&2 No change.
GUS 3 No change.
Scottsdale Downtown Trolley No change.
Scottsdale Neighborhood Trolley No change.
Miller Road Trolley Schedule adjustments.
FLASH Forward No change.
FLASH Back No change.
FLASH McAllister No change.
Orbit Earth No change.
Orbit Jupiter No change.
Orbit Mars No change.
Orbit Mercury No change.
Orbit Venus No change.
DASH-Government No change.
ALEX  No change.
MARY No change.
SMART No change.
Buzz (Mesa) No change.
ZOOM (Avondale) No change.

Express Routes

Express Route 511 Minor reroute at the north end of the route to near the Scottsdale Airpark. Schedule adjustments.
Express Route 514 Schedule adjustments.
Express Route 520 No change. 
Express Route 521 No change.
Express Route 522 No change.
Express Route 531 No change.
Express Route 533 No change.
Express Route 535 No change.
Express Route 541 No change.
Express Route 542 No change.
Express Route 562 No change.
Express Route 563 No change.
Express Route 571 Add one morning and one afternoon trip.
Express Route 573 No change.
Express Route 575 No change.

RAPID Routes

SR-51 RAPID No change.
I-10 East RAPID No change.
I-10 West RAPID No change.
I-17 RAPID No change.
CSM-RAPID Eliminate two morning and two afternoon trips.

Rural Routes

Rural Route 685 No change.

Proposed East Valley Non-ADA Fare Changes

Valley Metro is proposing fare changes to non-ADA Dial-a-Ride service in the East Valley. Click here for details.

Tempe Streetcar Named Among Future Federal Projects

Tempe Streetcar Named Among Future Federal Projects

PHOENIX, AZ – The Federal Transit Administration has approved Valley Metro Rail’s request to enter Project Development for Tempe Streetcar, a 2.6-mile extension of the Valley Metro system. This marks the first step in receiving federal project approval and ultimately federal funds to build the extension.

“The streetcar in downtown Tempe serves as a critical connection to the existing transit system and provides additional mobility options for a community having a high demand for transit,” said Valley Metro Rail Vice Chair and Tempe Councilmember Shana Ellis. The streetcar is currently planned to travel as a one-mile downtown loop along Mill and Ash avenues and south to Apache Boulevard. Two route modifications are being explored:

- Rio Salado Parkway west to Mill Avenue, downtown loop to Apache Boulevard, east to Rural Road
- Downtown loop to Apache Boulevard, east to Terrace Road.

With the approval of Project Development it allows for completing the environmental study and initiating the engineering phase. The project cost is estimated at $130 million. At this time, more than half of the funding has been identified through Proposition 400 regional transit tax and federal air quality dollars. The city of Tempe’s local transit tax funds all operations costs with a portion of the cost offset by passenger fare revenue.

About streetcar: Modern streetcar operates on tracks, typically mixed with automobile traffic, and powered by overhead power lines. It differs from light rail in its smaller vehicle size and single-car operation. Streetcar stops every few blocks similar to local bus service, but has a greater ability to attract new riders and draw economic development. Modern streetcar is unlike the vintage trolley that operates in San Francisco, but similar to Portland’s streetcar system.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of Valley Metro light rail. In calendar year 2012, total ridership for the system was 72.5 million passengers—an increase of 3.8 percent over 2011. The first 20 miles of light rail opened December 2008. Six light rail extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments set the policy direction for the agency with the intent of advancing the regional public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting ValleyMetro.org.

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Valley Metro Ride Guide Highlights Local Attractions

Whether you are new to transit or new to the Valley, check out Valley Metro’s Ride Guide for everything you need to know to purchase a fare, get next bus and train arrival information and a list of destinations near light rail stations.
Download Ride Guide 

Rider Surveys at Transit Locations

Transit riders, car/vanpoolers and cyclists are being asked to give Valley Metro survey teams information about their transit and park-and-ride experiences. Two separate surveys are taking place at locations throughout the Valley to help the transit agency better understand transit usage and gain information for longer term development of transit and rideshare facilities. All survey personnel can be identified by a Valley Metro badge or a letter indicating that they are working on behalf of Valley Metro. 

Rider Satisfaction Survey—March 25-April 30

Transit riders on bus and light rail will be asked questions about their transit usage, system satisfaction and how they get transit information with a brief in-person survey at transit locations including transit centers and light rail stations at Central/Camelback and University/Rural. Passengers can also respond by going online to take the Rider Satisfaction Survey by clicking here.

Park-and-Ride Survey—April 1-mid-May

Park-and-ride users can give their input on usage, destination and what types of amenities are important by responding to surveys that will be distributed in April through mid-May. The surveys will be conducted at more than 30 locations including transit centers and locations along Valley Metro light rail.

Both surveys are available in Spanish. Findings from the research will be available this fall at valleymetro.org.

For more information, call 602.262.7433 or email at info@valleymetro.org.

Public Meeting Notice for Northwest Extension

PHOENIX, AZ – Residents along the future northwest Phoenix light rail extension are invited to a public meeting to review the design of the new park-and-ride site on the southwest corner of Dunlap and 19th Avenue. Park-and-Ride art elements will be available for review and Valley Metro staff will be on hand to answer questions.

Wednesday, March 27, 2013
6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – Open House
6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. – Presentation
7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Open House
Location: Richard E. Miller Elementary School (cafeteria)
2021 W. Alice Avenue (19th Avenue, south of Dunlap)

The 3.2-mile light rail extension will travel north from Bethany Home Road along 19th Avenue to Dunlap Avenue, opening in late 2015/early 2016. For more information on the project, go to www.valleymetro.org/northwest.

For additional information or to make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities at these meetings, please contact Carla Kahn at 602-744-5552 or ckahn@valleymetro.org. 

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting ValleyMetro.org.

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Video with Fairytale Animation Features Happy Ending for Riders

PHOENIX (Feb. 11, 2013) — Today, Valley Metro releases the next Notes music video titled “ValleyMetro.org” by local band Black Carl. While the song demonstrates the ease of using Valley Metro’s website, the video features a humorous fairytale setting that will charm audiences of all ages. To view the video click here. 

This is the 10th song to be released in the Notes series and Valley Metro is celebrating by giving a little something back to its riders during a social media customer appreciation event today. Giveaways tied closely to the theme of the video will be distributed to those who visit Valley Metro’s Facebook page and enter to win.

“We want to connect with passengers in a way that shows transit can be fun and approachable,” said Hillary Foose, Valley Metro Director, Communication and Marketing. “While the video is amusing and whimsical, the song is a reminder of how to use our online tools, including our recently upgraded mobile site.”
 
More about the song ValleyMetro.org

“ValleyMetro.org” is an upbeat song by indie, funk rock band Black Carl, of Tempe. The song demonstrates the ease of using Valley Metro’s website, ValleyMetro.org, to navigate the public transit system. The website also has a mobile version so riders can use it on the go. The song is brought to life with an animated music video which portrays the adventures of a princess traveling to new exciting places by way of light rail demonstrating the practicality of the website.

About Valley Metro Notes

Beginning in 2010, the campaign involved collaboration with six local Valley bands as part of a new community education effort to help people learn more about using transit in an entertaining and creative way. All of the instructional videos can be accessed by clicking here. Each creation breaks down the different facets of using the Valley Metro system such as passenger courtesy, how to use the transit book, and how to buy fare.

ValleyMetro.org is one of 11 topics selected based on common passenger questions at Valley Metro’s customer service line. Participating local bands are: Black Carl, Captain Squeegee, Elvis Before Noon, Mills End, Peachcake, and What Laura Says.

NOTE: Animated still images, MP3 song files, and video footage of the bands will be available in broadcast and print quality as each song is released. Reach the media contacts listed above for more.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.
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Valley Metro CEO Joins National Transit Board

PHOENIX, AZ – Stephen R. Banta, Valley Metro CEO, was unanimously approved by members of the South West Transit Association (SWTA) to serve as the secretary/treasurer for the 2013 term.

“Mr. Banta represents an important sector of the SWTA membership,” said Kristen Joyner, SWTA executive director. “His experience and wisdom leading a multi-modal, multi-city organization will be an asset to the board and membership as we strive to fulfill our goals of providing a community of education, communication and advocacy.”

Steve Banta, Valley Metro CEO

As secretary/treasurer, Banta will serve on the executive committee and present financial reports to the board and members. Also elected to the Board are Richard Ruddell, Fort Worth Transportation Authority executive director, as president and Ken Savage, Fort Smith Transit director, as vice president.

“It’s an honor and a pleasure to be more engaged with SWTA as part of the executive board,” said Banta. “Transit is becoming more essential for all communities, whether urban or rural, and it’s exciting to be a part of that progression.”

The South West Transit Association is a regional transit association representing: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. SWTA was formed in 1979 to represent transit agencies and others interested in public transit issues. Their mission is to assist members in maintaining and improving their ability to provide quality public transportation services.

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter or visiting valleymetro.org.

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Changes to Service on January 28, New Fares on March 1

PHOENIX, AZ –The newest edition of the Valley Metro Transit Book announces changes to service that begin Monday, January 28. Service changes for the regional transit system occur twice each year: January and July. Upcoming changes to service include:

-New 19th Avenue Connector travels between Bethany Home Road and Dunlap Avenue to help reduce congestion during light rail construction
-Route 1 on Washington/Jefferson will be re-routed to enter the new Sky Train Transit Center at 44th Street and Washington
-Route 96 on Dobson will add one morning and two afternoon trips to serve the Snedigar Sports Complex
-Route 112 on Country Club/Arizona Avenue extends south to Pecos Road
-Route 251 on 51st Avenue extends south to Pecos Road to serve the Komatke Heath Center
-Route 541-Chandler Express will be re-routed to serve the West Mesa Park-and-Ride
-Express Route 542-Chandler Express will add one weekday roundtrip

Click here for a complete list of changes. There will be no changes to light rail service.

In addition, Valley Metro wants passengers to be prepared for a fare increase effective Friday, March 1. New fares take effect on Valley Metro transit services including bus and light rail. The current 1-Ride fare will increase by $.25 on the local bus/LINK/light rail and $.50 on Express/RAPID. The new fare structure allows Express/RAPID riders to more equitably share in the cost of transit operations. A public involvement program was conducted last fall to obtain feedback from passengers about the proposed increase. Click here for more information on fare changes.

“We recognize that a fare increase can be challenging for our customers,” said Valley Metro CEO Steve Banta.  “However, what we heard loud and clear during public outreach was a value for our existing service.  This increase will maintain the service on the street today.” The last fare increase occurred in July 2009.

The change in fares includes the addition of a more affordable 15-day pass, which gives frequent transit users the convenient option of purchasing a multi-day pass that is less costly than the 31-day pass. Another change effective March 1 is the elimination of the 3-day pass, which will no longer be available due to lack of use. .

About Valley Metro: Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of METRO light rail. In fiscal year 2012, total ridership for the system was 71 million passengers. The first 20-miles of light rail opened December 2008 and served 13.5 million riders in 2012 exceeding the prior year by six percent.  Six light rail extensions are under way that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. A board of 16 governments sets the policy direction for the agency and works to improve and regionalize the public transit system. Get the latest news by following us on Facebook and Twitter.