The

South Central

Extension/Downtown Hub

light-rail expansion project

in Phoenix

continues to garner

recognition

for

Valley Metro

.

Since

launching in

June 2025, the 5.5-mile extension has recorded more than 1.6 million rides, averaging over 6,400 boardings per day,

Valley Metro officials said in a press release.

So far this year,

the agency

has received

several awards for the expansion, including

:

t

he 2026 WTS International Innovative Project Solutions and WTS Metro Phoenix Innovative Project Solutions

a

ward

s, which are

based on innovation, community impact and improve

d

access to services,

employment

and opportunity

;

2026 Arizona Forward Environmental Excellence Award for leadership in advancing sustainability and strengthening Arizona's long-term resilience

; and

2026 American Council of Engineering Companies

’

Engineering Excellence National Grand Award

for

outstanding engineering achievement

.

The national and regional awards underscore the project’s impact on the region and the broader transportation, engineering and construction industries, Valley Metro officials said.

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