The Arizona Department of Transportation’s study of passenger rail between Phoenix and Tucson is taking another step.

The Federal Railroad Administration has approved ADOT’s submissions in the first step of the Corridor Identification and Development Program: a scope, schedule and budget for preparing a Service Development Plan that will outline key elements necessary for establishing passenger rail service, according to a release.

Work on the Service Development Plan can begin after approval of a federal grant, which is expected in the coming weeks. 

ADOT Director Jennifer Toth said “passenger rail connecting the Phoenix and Tucson areas (is) an important addition to transportation options for Arizona.

“It holds the promise of more economic growth and employment while enhancing mobility for rural areas and families in communities between Phoenix and Tucson.”

Completing the Service Development Plan is expected to take two to three years, state officials said. Among other things, the plan will:

• Identify the number and location of stations along the route based on travel data analysis, technical feasibility, and access to jobs, schools and airports. 
• Identify infrastructure improvements that will be needed, such as additional track or maintenance facilities.
• Forecast ridership and revenues, determine the number of trips and travel time, estimate capital and maintenance costs and develop a plan for phasing in service.

The proposed Phoenix-Tucson passenger rail corridor, which extends approximately 160 miles between Tucson and Buckeye, was selected in late 2023 for the Corridor Identification and Development Program. 

ADOT’s budget to complete the Service Development Plan is $10.6 million.

For more: azdot.gov/AZRailStudy.