Multimodal Transportation Options. 

MAG studies have shown that numerous improvements to our regional transportation facilities are needed to accommodate continued growth.

Under the new Regional Transportation Plan created by the Transportation Policy Committee, a variety of alternative solutions are proposed to take some of the burden off our streets and freeways. These solutions include expanded bus service, bus rapid transit, light rail, express bus service, new bike path systems and improved pedestrian corridors. Vanpool, carpool, and telework programs are other types of projects also included as alternative solutions to relieving congestion. Improving the technology that helps manage the transportation system –  known as smart technology or "Intelligent Transportation Systems"– is another area that would receive funding in the Plan.

According to MAG projections, transit trips in the region could triple between 2000 and 2040, while the percentage of total trips using transit would increase slightly. Without transit service expansions, the share of travel using transit may decrease by 2040.

In the past few years, the residents of four Valley cities – Phoenix, Tempe, Glendale and Mesa – have committed funding to pay for the construction of a 20-mile light rail starter system. Another 10 miles are also being locally funded. The new Regional Transportation Plan includes an additional 27.5 miles of potential extensions of the system, for a total of 57.5 miles of light rail serving Phoenix, Glendale, Tempe and Mesa.

In addition, studies are ongoing to assess options for possible future commuter rail service in the region. The Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) has completed a study looking at future transit needs and potential service options in the region.

The Transportation Policy Committee considered a variety of solutions through its planning process. Throughout each stage of the process, alternatives were presented to the public for review and comment. These alternatives were also modeled for performance standards and reviewed by other agencies such as RPTA, Maricopa County and the Arizona Department of Transportation.