April 8, 2026
Valley Metro
The South Central Extension/Downtown Hub (SCE/DH) light rail expansion continues to earn widespread recognition less than a year after opening. Since June 2025, the 5.5-mile extension has recorded more than 1.6 million rides, averaging over 6,400 boardings per day, improving regional mobility and expanding economic opportunity for riders across the region.
The project has received national and regional awards that underscore its impact on the region and the broader transportation, engineering and construction industries including:
- The 2026 WTS International Innovative Project Solutions Award and WTS Metro Phoenix Innovative Project Solutions Award honor an outstanding transportation project that has improved quality of life for its users and the broader community. Selection is based on innovation, community impact and the project's ability to improve access to services, employment and opportunity.
- The 2026 Arizona Forward Environmental Excellence Award — Creating Resilient Communities and Arizona Forward Governor's Award for Arizona's Future recognize outstanding projects for their leadership in advancing sustainability and strengthening Arizona's long-term resilience.
- The 2026 American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Engineering Excellence National Grand Award recognizes outstanding engineering achievement and projects that demonstrate innovation, creative problem-solving and engineering’s unique ability to improve our world.
A full list of awards is available here.
“To see this project recognized nationally and regionally across several industries is a true reflection of the talent and commitment of our team and partners who brought this project to life," said Valley Metro Capital Development Chief Trevor Collon. “Projects like this are exactly why we do this work; and this one will continue to make a difference for riders and communities across the region for generations to come.”