Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension: Transforming Phoenix's Transit Landscape

Since its opening in 2024, the Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension has transformed Phoenix’s transportation network. Led by Valley Metro and designed by Jacobs, this 1.6-mile extension reaches the site of the former Metrocenter Mall. As the first light rail extension to the city’s west side, it’s already connecting vibrant communities to jobs, schools and entertainment—sparking economic growth across the region.

This project also sets new standards in light rail infrastructure. Jacobs introduced several innovations to enhance safety, reduce costs and improve rider experience:

• Track slab: In collaboration with the Arizona State University School of Sustainability, the Jacobs-designed track slab is reinforced with steel fibers, boosting durability and performance.
• Custom steel-tub girders: Jacobs designed a 250-foot span over I-17 using steel-tub girders, allowing future freeway expansion while limiting utility impacts. The bridge was installed during a single weekend closure.
• Multimodal transit hub: The extension includes Valley Metro’s first aerial station, integrating rail with bus, rideshare and circulator services. The design reduces pedestrian conflicts and minimizes land acquisition.
• Public art integration: In partnership with artists from the Phoenix Arts Commission, the project incorporates artistic elements, blending form and function.

“Our ‘find a way to say YES!’ approach helped us overcome major challenges,” says Jacobs Project Manager Andrew Haines. “The team developed more than $60 million in value engineering ideas without cutting scope, used innovative materials and finished the project ahead of schedule and under budget.” The project team also invested in the future workforce by launching a “Workforce Development Program” and monthly “Engineers of the Future” events for students, including site tours and a final design challenge to envision a future train station. 

A catalyst for growth in the Valley

By extending service to the former Metrocenter Mall, the project helped revitalize a historic location, drive economic growth and provide new travel options for thousands of additional daily riders. The expanded system now covers 30 miles.

Supporting the City of Phoenix’s Transit Oriented Development (TOD) goals, the extension promotes walkable, mixed-use communities that integrate housing, mobility, green systems and public health.

In recognition of its wide-ranging benefits, the project has received multiple awards, including:

• 2025 Arizona Associated General Contractors of America (AZ AGC) Build Arizona Award in the New Construction Over $50 Million Category
• 2025 WTS International Metropolitan Phoenix Chapter Innovative Transportation Solutions Award
• 2025 American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Engineering Excellence Award Honor Award
• 2025 Associated General Contractors (AGC) and The Baldwin Group Build America Awards, Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering and Collaboration (Civil Projects $20M and Above)
• 2024 Engineering News-Record (ENR) Best of the Best Project in the Airport/Transit Category
• 2024 ENR Southwest Region Best Project in the Airport/Transit Category
• 2024 ENR Southwest Region Excellence in Safety Award
• 2024 ENR Southwest Region Project of the Year
• 2024 National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC) Large Construction Project of the Year

“The Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension shows what’s possible when you combine innovation, collaboration and sustainable design,” adds Andrew. “Together with Valley Metro, we’ve revitalized the Metrocenter area and set a new standard for light rail infrastructure in Arizona and beyond.”