Phoenix City Council Shifts Light Rail Extension to Maryvale
Phoenix, AZ — February 1, 2026 — The Phoenix City Council voted 7-2 to redirect the planned light rail extension from the state Capitol to Maryvale, prioritizing community suppo…
City Council’s Decision
The Phoenix City Council has voted 7-2 to cancel the planned Capitol light rail extension in favor of a route through Maryvale, primarily along Indian School Road. This decision comes despite the Capitol route having previously received voter approval. The shift was largely influenced by strong community support from Maryvale residents, who emphasized the benefits of increased transit access and community revitalization for the working-class neighborhood. Councilmember Betty Guardado, representing Maryvale, championed the change, calling it a transformational move for the area.
Community Response
Many Maryvale residents urged the council to back the alternate Indian School route, saying it would revitalize their community, connect it to the rest of the Valley, and provide critically needed public transit options. The other side: Capitol extension supporters argued that the council should respect the will of the voters who backed it, and said light … .
Political Context
When Republican lawmakers authorized Maricopa … . Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs … . Construction on the Indian School extension is slated to begin around 2032 and complete by 2037.
