
Phoenix
The five-mile extension will connect South Phoenix to the regional light rail system, operating from downtown Phoenix to Baseline Road.
Visit us at the South Central Extension Community Office
5040 S. Central Ave., Phoenix
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Evenings or weekends by appointment, call (602) 687-8585
What is the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub?
The South Central Extension/Downtown Hub is more than just a train; it’s a way to bring new opportunities and connections to South Phoenix residents. It’s a catalyst for positive change.
The South Central Extension/Downtown Hub will connect with the current light rail system in downtown Phoenix and operate south to Baseline Road. The project also includes a hub in downtown Phoenix, new stations and public art.
Today, more than 45,000 riders rely on light rail each day. Light rail has proven to generate economic prosperity for historically underserved communities in metro Phoenix.
Light rail makes the unique offerings of South Phoenix more accessible to others, attracting new customers, businesses and jobs to the area. In 2016, the Phoenix City Council approved advancing the opening date of the extension from 2034 to 2023. The advancement is funded through Transportation 2050, a 35-year, multi-modal transportation plan approved by Phoenix voters, and is expected to open for operations in 2024.
Stats

Map
South Central Extension/Downtown Hub route description
The South Central Extension/Downtown Hub light rail project will begin at McKinley Street between 1st Avenue and Central Avenue creating a loop to the existing Valley Metro Rail. It will continue south on Central Avenue to Baseline Road.
In addition, the new light rail extension will add a Downtown Hub between Washington Street and Jefferson Street. The 3rd Avenue loop will connect to the future Capitol Extension Project.
This extension will connect to places like:
- St. Anthony’s Catholic Church
- St. Vincent de Paul
- Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center
- Ed Pastor Transit Center
- Travis L. Williams Family Services Center
- St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church.
Schedule

Upcoming Construction Activities
Light rail construction on the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub project continues downtown and along south Central Avenue. In the first phase of construction, community members may see some of the following traffic impacts:
- One lane maintained in each direction on Central Avenue
- Limited turns on Central Avenue
- Business and pedestrian access maintained
Safety – for motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and construction workers – is a top priority. Please be extra careful when traveling in the construction zones.
- Plan your trip. The Construction Notices area on this page provides the latest information on construction activity and traffic restrictions.
- Remember to stay alert and follow the posted traffic signals and signs during construction.
- For everyone’s safety, please do not approach workers in a construction zone. If you have questions regarding the project, contact a Community Outreach Coordinator.
To stay up-to-date on the latest news and information, please:
- Download the Construct VM app available in Apple App and Google Play stores
- Call Hotline: 602.254.RAIL (7245)
Visit the "Construction Look Ahead Schedule" section in the menu on the right to view more details about upcoming construction.
Small Businesses:
Financial Assistance is Available!
Valley Metro and the city of Phoenix have opened the second year of the Small Business Financial Assistance Program (SBFAP). Funded by the City of Phoenix and the Phoenix Community Development and Investment Corporation, this program provides direct financial assistance to locally owned, small businesses immediately adjacent to light rail construction.
The SBFAP offers two tiers of assistance, depending on several criteria. In Tier I, businesses can receive $3,000 and in Tier II, businesses can receive up to $9,000. SBFAP funds may be used for business operations expenses, including rent/mortgage, utilities, insurance, payroll.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Own a business directly on the construction route
- Employ 15 or fewer people
- Have annual revenue of no more than $750,000
Application:
The program administrator, Prestamos CDFI LLC, is now accepting applications for the program. Visit the SBFAP program website: prestamosloans.org/valleymetro.

Learn about Valley Metro's
Business Consulting Services
Free business consulting services are available to businesses along the route in a variety of areas, including marketing and advertising, website and online presence, accounting and finance, human resources, and general business operations, at no charge to the business.
Deals and Discounts Map
Check out our interactive map to learn more about exclusive deals when you visit participating businesses along the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub project route.
Valley Metro is committed to the well-being of the communities we serve. We know that state and federal guidance seeking to limit the spread of COVID-19 may affect your shopping routines. Here are some tips for continuing to support local businesses during this time:
- Order online or over the phone from local shops.
- Order takeout or delivery for local restaurants.
- If you typically make larger purchases with local retailers later in the year, place your orders now.
- If you do not need anything specific now, buy gift cards from local businesses to use later.
- Purchase gift cards from local restaurants.
- Share this post and information widely so others know how to help!
"The business assistance team has sponsored many events to highlight and promote local businesses. They have always responded quickly to questions, concerns and occasional disruptions."
Jose O'Rubio
Grullo's Restaurant | 1110 E. Main St. | Mesa, AZ 85203
"Long term construction always has its difficulties, but Valley Metro has gone above and beyond to promote area businesses. Their free advertising mailer and community events have been a great assist to my practice and has helped our business community develop helpful long-term relationships that will last long after the project is finished."
Richard S. Ray, DC
Ray Chiropractic Center | 62 N Stapley Dr | Mesa, AZ 85203
Engineers of the Future
Valley Metro, along with its partner firm PGH Wong Engineering, launched a digital STEM-focused program, Engineers of the Future Virtual Learning Program. This unique and free online program expands learning opportunities for all students in the Phoenix area. Students will be able to learn remotely from Valley Metro engineer-mentors through videoed lessons and transportation-themed project builds. Our young engineers will also take virtual field trips to Valley Metro Light Rail construction sites and watch special guest lectures to learn more about STEM careers. Find out more information and watch virtual lessons, here.
"Engineers of the Future has helped me understand math better and do better in my classes, too,” said Jasmine Romero, Engineers of the Future student from Cesar Chavez Community School.
Engineers of the Future Virtual Learning Program Video:
Career Development
Implemented through Kiewit, Valley Metro's construction contractor, a variety of education and employment programs help connect local residents and companies to construction business opportunities, increase the skills of current employees and communicate the benefits of construction careers. The program also includes craft and small business training designed to increase local construction capacity. Quarterly workshops offer opportunities to share lessons learned and build real connections with subcontractors.
Learn more about construction careers with Kiewit by emailing PHXLightRailJobs@kiewit.com or by visiting the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub Community Office located at 5040 S Central Ave., Phoenix, to speak with a workforce development specialist on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and Fridays by appointment.
Current Job Openings
Kiewit is hiring for Valley Metro's South Central Extension/Downtown Hub project and other Phoenix-based projects. Kiewit and ARIZONA@WORK are hosting virtual hiring events live on their Facebook page at Construction Works AZ quarterly, to:
- Highlight open positions
- Connect you to subcontractors and unions
- Showcase careers in construction
Each event features guest speakers, including craft workers, union reps, subcontractor employers and workforce development organizations. Viewer questions will be answered at each session. To register text "KIEWIT" to 602.755.4333. All virtual hiring events are recorded and posted for you to view at anytime. You can view all recorded virtual hiring events here at anytime.
Any further questions about available positions with Valley Metro or on the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub team, please email Michael Book.
Community Opportunities Video:
Coffee with Kiewit
Attend Coffee with Kiewit to learn more about the latest construction updates on the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub light rail project. Log in at coffeewithkiewit.com or call 602.666.0783 to participate. Enter access code 126 875 6874 when prompted.
At the Coffee with Kiewit events, you will:
- Learn more about Kiewit
- Meet with Kiewit's construction team and other stakeholders
- Join the conversation and find answers to your questions
- Stay connected with Kiewit and the project
Coffe with Kiewit events are scheduled quarterly. For more details, please see 'Upcoming Events' on the right hand side of this page or Valley Metro events page.
2019 South Central Extension/Downtown Hub Summer Internship Program
In July 2019, 10 high school students will graduate from the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub Summer Internship program. The eight-week program provided opportunities for students to learn more about careers in planning, architecture and engineering. It also included a hands-on lab experience at South Mountain Community College. Twenty-nine applications were received in early April, more than twice the number from the 2018 Summer Internship program. Each will earn a $1,000 stipend for completing the program.
"Don't doubt yourself and not apply because you think you won't make it and don't be afraid of meeting new people because you meet and learn a lot of things that you won't just find out on research and Googling." 2018 Student Intern
What is the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub?
The South Central Extension/Downtown Hub is more than just a train; it’s a way to bring new opportunities and connections to South Phoenix residents. It’s a catalyst for positive change.
The South Central Extension/Downtown Hub will connect with the current light rail system in downtown Phoenix and operate south to Baseline Road. The project also includes a hub in downtown Phoenix, new stations and public art.
Today, more than 45,000 riders rely on light rail each day. Light rail has proven to generate economic prosperity for historically underserved communities in metro Phoenix.
Light rail makes the unique offerings of South Phoenix more accessible to others, attracting new customers, businesses and jobs to the area. In 2016, the Phoenix City Council approved advancing the opening date of the extension from 2034 to 2023. The advancement is funded through Transportation 2050, a 35-year, multi-modal transportation plan approved by Phoenix voters, and is expected to open for operations in 2024.
Stats

Map
South Central Extension/Downtown Hub route description
The South Central Extension/Downtown Hub light rail project will begin at McKinley Street between 1st Avenue and Central Avenue creating a loop to the existing Valley Metro Rail. It will continue south on Central Avenue to Baseline Road.
In addition, the new light rail extension will add a Downtown Hub between Washington Street and Jefferson Street. The 3rd Avenue loop will connect to the future Capitol Extension Project.
This extension will connect to places like:
- St. Anthony’s Catholic Church
- St. Vincent de Paul
- Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center
- Ed Pastor Transit Center
- Travis L. Williams Family Services Center
- St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church.
Schedule

Upcoming Construction Activities
Light rail construction on the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub project continues downtown and along south Central Avenue. In the first phase of construction, community members may see some of the following traffic impacts:
- One lane maintained in each direction on Central Avenue
- Limited turns on Central Avenue
- Business and pedestrian access maintained
Safety – for motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and construction workers – is a top priority. Please be extra careful when traveling in the construction zones.
- Plan your trip. The Construction Notices area on this page provides the latest information on construction activity and traffic restrictions.
- Remember to stay alert and follow the posted traffic signals and signs during construction.
- For everyone’s safety, please do not approach workers in a construction zone. If you have questions regarding the project, contact a Community Outreach Coordinator.
To stay up-to-date on the latest news and information, please:
- Download the Construct VM app available in Apple App and Google Play stores
- Call Hotline: 602.254.RAIL (7245)
Visit the "Construction Look Ahead Schedule" section in the menu on the right to view more details about upcoming construction.
Small Businesses:
Financial Assistance is Available!
Valley Metro and the city of Phoenix have opened the second year of the Small Business Financial Assistance Program (SBFAP). Funded by the City of Phoenix and the Phoenix Community Development and Investment Corporation, this program provides direct financial assistance to locally owned, small businesses immediately adjacent to light rail construction.
The SBFAP offers two tiers of assistance, depending on several criteria. In Tier I, businesses can receive $3,000 and in Tier II, businesses can receive up to $9,000. SBFAP funds may be used for business operations expenses, including rent/mortgage, utilities, insurance, payroll.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Own a business directly on the construction route
- Employ 15 or fewer people
- Have annual revenue of no more than $750,000
Application:
The program administrator, Prestamos CDFI LLC, is now accepting applications for the program. Visit the SBFAP program website: prestamosloans.org/valleymetro.

Learn about Valley Metro's
Business Consulting Services
Free business consulting services are available to businesses along the route in a variety of areas, including marketing and advertising, website and online presence, accounting and finance, human resources, and general business operations, at no charge to the business.
Deals and Discounts Map
Check out our interactive map to learn more about exclusive deals when you visit participating businesses along the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub project route.
Valley Metro is committed to the well-being of the communities we serve. We know that state and federal guidance seeking to limit the spread of COVID-19 may affect your shopping routines. Here are some tips for continuing to support local businesses during this time:
- Order online or over the phone from local shops.
- Order takeout or delivery for local restaurants.
- If you typically make larger purchases with local retailers later in the year, place your orders now.
- If you do not need anything specific now, buy gift cards from local businesses to use later.
- Purchase gift cards from local restaurants.
- Share this post and information widely so others know how to help!
"The business assistance team has sponsored many events to highlight and promote local businesses. They have always responded quickly to questions, concerns and occasional disruptions."
Jose O'Rubio
Grullo's Restaurant | 1110 E. Main St. | Mesa, AZ 85203
"Long term construction always has its difficulties, but Valley Metro has gone above and beyond to promote area businesses. Their free advertising mailer and community events have been a great assist to my practice and has helped our business community develop helpful long-term relationships that will last long after the project is finished."
Richard S. Ray, DC
Ray Chiropractic Center | 62 N Stapley Dr | Mesa, AZ 85203
Engineers of the Future
Valley Metro, along with its partner firm PGH Wong Engineering, launched a digital STEM-focused program, Engineers of the Future Virtual Learning Program. This unique and free online program expands learning opportunities for all students in the Phoenix area. Students will be able to learn remotely from Valley Metro engineer-mentors through videoed lessons and transportation-themed project builds. Our young engineers will also take virtual field trips to Valley Metro Light Rail construction sites and watch special guest lectures to learn more about STEM careers. Find out more information and watch virtual lessons, here.
"Engineers of the Future has helped me understand math better and do better in my classes, too,” said Jasmine Romero, Engineers of the Future student from Cesar Chavez Community School.
Engineers of the Future Virtual Learning Program Video:
Career Development
Implemented through Kiewit, Valley Metro's construction contractor, a variety of education and employment programs help connect local residents and companies to construction business opportunities, increase the skills of current employees and communicate the benefits of construction careers. The program also includes craft and small business training designed to increase local construction capacity. Quarterly workshops offer opportunities to share lessons learned and build real connections with subcontractors.
Learn more about construction careers with Kiewit by emailing PHXLightRailJobs@kiewit.com or by visiting the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub Community Office located at 5040 S Central Ave., Phoenix, to speak with a workforce development specialist on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and Fridays by appointment.
Current Job Openings
Kiewit is hiring for Valley Metro's South Central Extension/Downtown Hub project and other Phoenix-based projects. Kiewit and ARIZONA@WORK are hosting virtual hiring events live on their Facebook page at Construction Works AZ quarterly, to:
- Highlight open positions
- Connect you to subcontractors and unions
- Showcase careers in construction
Each event features guest speakers, including craft workers, union reps, subcontractor employers and workforce development organizations. Viewer questions will be answered at each session. To register text "KIEWIT" to 602.755.4333. All virtual hiring events are recorded and posted for you to view at anytime. You can view all recorded virtual hiring events here at anytime.
Any further questions about available positions with Valley Metro or on the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub team, please email Michael Book.
Community Opportunities Video:
Coffee with Kiewit
Attend Coffee with Kiewit to learn more about the latest construction updates on the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub light rail project. Log in at coffeewithkiewit.com or call 602.666.0783 to participate. Enter access code 126 875 6874 when prompted.
At the Coffee with Kiewit events, you will:
- Learn more about Kiewit
- Meet with Kiewit's construction team and other stakeholders
- Join the conversation and find answers to your questions
- Stay connected with Kiewit and the project
Coffe with Kiewit events are scheduled quarterly. For more details, please see 'Upcoming Events' on the right hand side of this page or Valley Metro events page.
2019 South Central Extension/Downtown Hub Summer Internship Program
In July 2019, 10 high school students will graduate from the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub Summer Internship program. The eight-week program provided opportunities for students to learn more about careers in planning, architecture and engineering. It also included a hands-on lab experience at South Mountain Community College. Twenty-nine applications were received in early April, more than twice the number from the 2018 Summer Internship program. Each will earn a $1,000 stipend for completing the program.
"Don't doubt yourself and not apply because you think you won't make it and don't be afraid of meeting new people because you meet and learn a lot of things that you won't just find out on research and Googling." 2018 Student Intern
South Central Extension/Downtown Hub: Coffee with Kiewit
10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Event is virtual. See description for more details.,
Construction Advisory Board North Meeting
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
This meeting will be held in-person and online. See description for meeting instructions and details., Phoenix
Lincoln Station Artwork
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Provide input on the Lincoln Station Artwork
Follow the link to review the family names that are currently planned for the Lincoln Station Artwork, and to suggest additional names for consideration.
Sign up to receive email notices
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Receive email notices on the latest news and information about the project.
Click here to sign-up now.
Download the Construct VM App
- May 2022 Business Assistance Resource Calendar
- Business Assistance Survey
- Business Assistance Brochure
- Business Access Sign Application- English (127KB PDF)
- Business Access Sign Application- Spanish (128KB PDF)
- Banner Application- English (1MB PDF)
- Banner Application-Spanish (456KB PDF)
- Deals & Discount Map Application
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Construction Look Ahead Schedule
A detailed schedule of the upcoming construction activities for the project.
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Construction Outlook
A six month construction outlook for the project.
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Construction Schedule
A general timeline of upcoming construction activities for the project.
- Extended Hours Operations: 3rd Avenue to 7th Street between Adams Street and 1st Avenue: through July 31
- Extended Hours Operations: Roosevelt Street to Adams Street between 1st Street and 1st Avenue: through July 31
- Extended Hours Operations: Madison Street to Lincoln Street between 1st Avenue and 1st Street: through July 31
- Extended Hours Operations : Central Avenue: Lincoln Street to Cocopah Street between 1st Avenue and 1st Street: through July 31
- 1st Avenue between Jefferson and Buchanan streets Construction Notice: through June 1
- 1st Avenue affecting Buchanan and Lincoln streets Construction Notice: through June
- Central Avenue Closure: Jefferson Street to Washington Street Construction Notice: through 2024
- Central Avenue between Lincoln and Jefferson streets Construction Notice: through June 1
- Central Avenue between Lincoln and Cocopah streets Construction Notice: through June
- Jefferson Street between 1st Avenue and east of Central Avenue Construction Notice: through early June
- Jefferson Street between Central Avenue and 4th Avenue Construction Notice: through May 20
- Madison Street between Central Avenue and 1st Street: through May 20
- Sherman Street closed at Central Avenue Construction Notice: through May 31
- Washington Street between 1st Street to 4th Avenue Construction Notice: through June 1
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Arizona Department of Health Services Guidance
ADHS guidance for operation of various business classifications.
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PhxBiz Grants
Micro and small business grants from the City of Phoenix
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City of Phoenix Resources for Business
Helpful information for businesses.
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Local First Arizona Black Business Accelerator Program
Information and application for a new and free program offering comprehensive six-month cohorts for Black entrepreneurs. Deadline to apply is November 20.
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We're Open, Arizona
List and map of restaurants open in the community.
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Chicanos Por La Causa
Community resources, health information and small business relief programs.
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Coronavirus Emergency Loans Small Business Guide and Checklist
Information on Federal relief for small businesses.
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Downtown Phoenix Inc.
Current list of resources for area businesses.
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Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
COVID-19 resources for businesses.
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Arizona Commerce Authority
Employment training resources and virtual career counseling.
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I Fund Women Grant
Grant supports women owned businesses in areas of consumables and technology.
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Sky's the Limit Grant
Rise and Thrive Relief grant for small businesses, free membership.
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Comcast Rise Grant
Free commercial opportunities and marketing for Black owned business only.
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The Pollination Project Micro Grant
For individuals, organized groups and organizations.
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The Stardust Startup Factory Micro Grant
Specific funding for startup businesses.
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Back to Work Small Business Hiring and Retention Program
This Hiring and Retention Program is designed to assist small, locally owned, or operated businesses hire and retain employees.
- Fall 2019 Public Meeting Display Boards (19MB PDF)
- Fall 2019 Urban Design Guidelines (27MB )
- Fall 2019 Public Meeting Presentation
- Design Update Public Meeting Display Boards (27MB PDF)
- Design Update Public Meeting Guide (332KB PDF)
- Fall 2018 Public Meeting Presentation (1MB PDF)
- Fall 2018 Public Meeting Display Boards (6MB PDF)
- Fall 2018 Public Meeting Independent Facilitator Report Handout (2MB PDF)
- Fall 2018 Public Meeting Questions and Answers (924KB PDF)
- Finding of No Significant Impact (3MB PDF)
- Locally Preferred Alternative Report (4MB PDF)
- Appendice A - Conceptual Engineering Plans (12MB PDF)
- Appendice B - Economic Dev Tech Memo (103KB PDF)
- Appendice C - Transportation Report (5MB PDF)
- Appendice D - Air Quality Report (9MB PDF)
- Appendice E - Noise Vibration Report (7MB PDF)
- Appendice F - Cultural Resource Report (29MB PDF)
- Appendice F1 - Memorandum of Agreement (10MB PDF)
- Appendice G Section 4F - Memo (2MB PDF)
- Appendice H - Visual Memo (9MB PDF)
- Appendice I - Environmental Justice Memo (840KB PDF)
- Appendice J - ESA (11MB PDF)
- Appendice K - Safety Security Tech Memo (67KB PDF)
- Appendice L - Biological Assessment (5MB PDF)
- Appendice L1 - USFWS Letter (2MB PDF)
- Appendice M - List of Preparers (41KB PDF)
- Appendice N - Public Comments (201KB PDF)
- Environmental Assessment (8MB PDF)