Phoenix secures $156M for transformative infrastructure projects including bike paths and safety upgrades

A monumental $146.6 million grant has been awarded to Phoenix for the US 6030 Fifth Avenue Indian School Road Grade Separation Project, marking the largest single discretionary grant in the region's history. This ambitious initiative aims to replace a complex six-legged intersection with a safer, more efficient four-legged design, significantly enhancing traffic flow for the 140,000 daily travelers who navigate this busy corridor.

The project, a collaboration between the Maricopa Association of Governments, Arizona Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway, will eliminate two dangerous at-grade railroad crossings, easing delays and improving emergency response times. Additionally, new ADA-accessible sidewalks will enhance pedestrian and transit access, aligning with the city’s vision for a more connected and safer transportation network.

In a series of significant funding announcements, the Phoenix City Council also highlighted several other key projects. Among them is a $25 million investment in the Indian School Road revisioning project, which aims to improve safety and mobility along a vital corridor that serves thousands of residents and commuters daily. This funding will support enhanced street lighting, wider sidewalks, and dedicated bike lanes, addressing long-standing safety challenges for pedestrians and cyclists.

Another noteworthy initiative is the $25 million awarded for the Third Street, Rio Salado bike and pedestrian bridge, which will connect South Central and Midtown Phoenix while improving access to jobs and essential services. This project received considerable community support, with over 200 residents voting on the design.

The meeting underscored Phoenix's commitment to sustainable transit, with a $16.4 million grant aimed at converting the public transit fleet to 100% zero-emission buses by 2040. This funding will facilitate the replacement of aging buses with battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell options, alongside necessary infrastructure upgrades.

These investments reflect a broader strategy to enhance Phoenix's infrastructure, promote multimodal transportation, and foster community development, ensuring a vibrant and accessible future for all residents.