Tempe test drives new streetcars

  • 2021-07-03
Valley Metro is currently testing new streetcars in Tempe. The two streetcars, of which there will be six in total, are being tested in real-world conditions before being launched into full service.

Valley Metro spokesperson, Adrian Ruiz, said that these streetcars share lanes with other vehicles, and wants the public to know that they will be observing the use of these cars and how they travel over the next few weeks. Ruiz added that the streetcars should be treated like any other vehicle on the road.

Those who are on scooters and bikes should not ride between the rails as their tires could get stuck in the track grooves, and it may also be difficult to maneuver in the tight space. These streetcars are also much quieter than light rail, so pedestrians should only cross their track on designated crosswalks.

Each streetcar can carry 125 people and operates independently. Their stops are more like those of buses in that they are more frequent. The current route has 14 stops, is three miles long, and has two connections to light rail. Local Print shops can be hired to create materials with more information about such vehicles, their schedules, and their stops.

The next streetcar is expected to be delivered later this summer, with the rest of the project to be completed by the end of this year.

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