Valley Metro to prep track for Tempe Streetcar 'tie-in' project

Valley Metro crews next month will begin installing special track to enable the Tempe Streetcar in Tempe, Arizona, to cross over the area's existing light-rail system.

The work will occur at two locations along the 3rd Street streetcar route at Mill Avenue and Ash Avenue, and require single-tracking on portions of the light-rail route.

While the work is taking place, light-rail trains will be spaced along the track throughout the entire system at larger intervals and will operate on an adjusted schedule between Dec. 21 and Jan. 5, 2020, Valley Metro officials said in a press release.

The “track tie-in” project is the most technically challenging part of the construction, officials said.

The Tempe Streetcar is scheduled to open in 2021 with 3 miles of track, 14 stops and two connections to Valley Metro light-rail service, agency officials said in a press release.