Valley Metro names Stacy and Witbeck construction manager for Tempe Streetcar

Valley Metro's rail board late last week approved a contract with Stacy and Witbeck Inc. to serve as construction manager for the Tempe Streetcar project.

Valley Metro and the firm will partner with the city of Tempe, Ariz., project designer Stantec Consulting Services Inc., local community members and five project artists to build the region's first streetcar line, agency officials said in a press release.

Construction of the 3-mile route is slated to begin later this year, with the line opening in 2020.

Stacy and Witbeck and project partner Sundt previously built 13 miles of Valley Metro light rail in Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa, Ariz. The companies are building the 2-mile Gilbert Road light-rail extension.

In addition, Stacy and Witbeck last year completed the Kansas City Streetcar line and will "carry that experience and expertise to Tempe Streetcar," said Erik Yingling, the company's vice president.

In August 2016, the firm was named construction manager of Valley Metro's 50th Street light-rail station in Phoenix.