The Arizona Department of Transportation has announced the formation of an Executive Leadership Team to explore high-speed rail options connecting Phoenix and Tucson.
The group consists of representatives from the Governor’s Office, ADOT, and metropolitan planning organizations across different counties.
ADOT officials announced that the partnership among different groups enhances Governor Katie Hobbs’ initiatives to improve transportation in the state.
Hobbs emphasized that investing in passenger rail connecting the two metro areas presents significant potential for boosting the economy and creating jobs.
A grant from the Federal Railroad Administration is enabling the study, thanks to Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, who secured $3.5 million in federal resources for the service plan.
A new passenger rail corridor spanning 160 miles is set to operate approximately three trips daily between Tucson and Buckeye.
ADOT has finalized and submitted a proposed scope, budget, schedule, and planned steps for the Service Development Plan through a $500,000 grant.
The FRA is set to review the proposal before making a decision on a federal grant, which includes a 10% state match, allowing ADOT to finalize the Service Development Plan.