Valley Metro to open Northwest Extension in March

Valley Metro Rail plans to open the Northwest light-rail extension in Phoenix on March 19, 2016, the agency announced yesterday.

The news comes as Valley Metro moves into the final phase of the new extension with vehicle testing and safety awareness.

The Northwest Extension will connect six schools, places of worship, senior living facilities and about 300 businesses, said Phoenix Vice Mayor Daniel Valenzuela in a press release, noting that more than $8 billion has been invested in developments near the city's existing light-rail lines.

"This will provide another massive economic boost for District 5 and Phoenix, and provide a crucial connection for thousands to the entire Valley," he said.

The 3.2-mile, $300 million extension is expected to accommodate 5,000 riders daily, according to the project's fact sheet.