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We need to make light rail, and high speed commuter trains a priority in the City of Phoenix. Light rail needs to continue to expand at a faster rate, to both the north and south part of the city - where commuters need it most. We have already seen the success and increased ridership on the Metro lightrail, a route that many people consider only convenient to a small number of areas (myself included), so imagine just how many people would be using it if it was expanded.

Also, high speed train transport needs funding secured and planning to begin for a line between Phoenix and Tucson, and also along Grand Avenue between downtown and the northeast valley. Train tracks are already established along Grand Avenue, and the area is in need of some serious blight clean-up.

Not only would this add to the transportation value of the city, but it would open up the economies and potential workforce for many areas. Perhaps if the light rail went out to the Coyotes arena, people might be more willing to go see them play. Or a tech worker from Tucson could think about working in Phoenix with the convenience of a stress-free hour train ride into work. Or a suburban couple from Moon Valley could take the train into downtown to experience the Artwalk. Maybe a west valley resident who usually hikes elsewhere could finally come down and see how great South Mountain Park is. And visitors to the valley could have a chance to stay and experience our growing downtown area, while still being able to get out to various parts of this ever-sprawling city (think Super Bowl).

I have lived here most of my life and Phoenix has always been behind when it comes to transportation. While the bus system here works for some, it has become bloated and unreliable for many. This means having more than one line, and more than one type of train. If this city wants to continue to grow into the future, we must make public transportation a priority.