Utility relocation work has already begun for the construction, and bridge construction over the canal and Interstate 17 is scheduled to begin this month and in early 2021. The project is anticipated to be under construction through 2023 and completed in 2024. In total the project is expected to cost $401 million.

The Northwest extension will add another 1.6 miles of track to the route, which currently ends at 19th Avenue and Dunlap Road. The extension will travel west on Dunlap to 25th Avenue, then north to Mountain View Road. The track will run west on Mountain View over I-17 to the final stop at Metrocenter Mall.

“Light rail is essential to smart growth and smart development throughout the city,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said in a statement.” The grants will extend these advantages to commuters in northwest Phoenix. I’m deeply grateful to our federal partners for sharing our vision and for the funds that will bring it to life.”

Earlier this month the Federal Transit Administration announced it intends to award Valley Metro a $530 million grant for the South Central light rail extension and Downtown Hub construction, which will fund about 40% of the project. The Federal Highway Administration also announced a $108 million grant to the project. The total development cost of the project is $1.35 billion. The grants bring that project to full funding.