Project Profile: Tempe Streetcar, Arizona

The Tempe Streetcar is a modern light rail transit system engineered to enhance urban mobility and connectivity within Tempe, Arizona. The project integrates seamlessly with the existing Valley Metro Rail network, utilizing hybrid-electric vehicles to serve key economic and academic corridors. This profile details the project’s technical specifications, construction, and operational framework.

Technical Specifications

The Tempe Streetcar system features a 4.82 km route with 14 stations, establishing a critical link between Arizona State University (ASU), downtown Tempe, the Rio Salado Parkway, and surrounding residential districts. A key engineering feature is its integration with the regional Valley Metro Rail system, with dedicated transfer points at Mill Avenue/3rd Street and Dorsey/Apache Blvd. This allows for fluid passenger movement between the streetcar and the larger light rail network.

The rolling stock consists of six Brookville Liberty Modern Streetcars, each with a capacity for 120 passengers. These vehicles are equipped with a hybrid battery energy storage system that enables significant off-wire operation, particularly through sensitive downtown intersections and along the Rio Salado Parkway. This design minimizes the visual impact of overhead catenary systems (OCS) and provides enhanced operational flexibility. The streetcars feature over 70% low-floor design and an automatic leveling system to ensure rapid and accessible boarding, complying with all ADA requirements.

Key Takeaways

• Hybrid-Electric Technology: The project’s use of Brookville Liberty streetcars with onboard battery storage allows for extensive off-wire operation, reducing infrastructure costs and visual impact in key urban zones.
• Multi-Modal Integration: The streetcar was designed as a “first and last mile” solution, with seamless transfer points to the larger Valley Metro Rail light rail system, significantly enhancing regional public transit connectivity.
• Alternative Project Delivery: The utilization of a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) contract model proved effective in managing project costs and adhering to the construction schedule for this complex urban infrastructure project.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did the Tempe Streetcar open?

The Tempe Streetcar officially opened for passenger service in May 2022. It now connects key destinations throughout Tempe, including Arizona State University, Mill Avenue, and the Rio Salado business corridor.

Who built the Tempe Streetcar?

The Tempe Streetcar project was led and operated by Valley Metro. The primary contractors included Stantec Consulting Services for the design phase, Stacy and Witbeck as the Construction Manager at Risk, and Brookville Equipment Corporation for the manufacturing and supply of the streetcar vehicles.