West Phoenix Gets Federal Funding To Make Streets Safer

PHOENIX — West Phoenix is getting a boost from the federal government, to the tune of $17.5 million.

The U.S. Department of Transportation announced it is awarding the city of Phoenix the funds through its Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant. The money will go toward improving a three-mile stretch of road along 35th Avenue between the I-10 and Camelback Road, the city said in a news release.

“This segment of road currently serves 250 small businesses and 8,000 employees across a wide spectrum of business sectors, including manufacturing and distribution,” Mayor Kate Gallego said in a statement. “This addition of the most modern infrastructure will spur the attraction and expansion of businesses in this area.”

Part of the improvements will include three new pedestrian-activated signals, raised medians, more LED street lighting and smoother pavement. These changes will reduce travel time for commuters as well.

These enhancements will go a long way in protecting pedestrians, as the area is known for a high number of pedestrian deaths. Arizona had the fourth highest number of pedestrian deaths in the country in 2018, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The 35th Avenue corridor in west Phoenix is one of the highest ridership areas for bus routes in Phoenix with an average of 5,200 daily riders.

“This is an area where many students and families walk or bike by necessity – to get to work, school or local businesses,” Vice Mayor Betty Guardado said in the news release. “Adding the signals for mid-block crossings will make it safer for all road users, but especially for people on foot or riding bikes. As a city, we will continue to prioritize safe and accessible streets.”