Kirsten Dorman/KJZZ

The Phoenix city council voted in May to name the new transit center after former Councilwoman Thelda Williams, who died November 14, 2023, at age 82.

The newest section of light rail in northwest Phoenix is set to officially open in the morning on Saturday, Jan. 27. The public is invited to help celebrate by taking a ride. 

Curious customers can hop on Valley Metro’s light rail, which will take them to the Thelda Williams Transit Center near the former site of the Metrocenter Mall. This second phase starts at 19th and Dunlap avenues and travels north on 25th Avenue, later crossing over the I-17.

The 1.6-mile project includes three new stops, including the system’s first elevated rail station. The extension is expected to attract more than 3,000 new riders and spur economic activity given its location and the redevelopment happening there.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and members of the City Council will be on hand for the opening, which is scheduled for 9 a.m. 

More stories from KJZZ

• 'A tremendous tribute to a great woman': Phoenix unveils Thelda Williams Transit Center
• What it's like to live at Culdesac Tempe, which says it's the nation's first car-free neighborhood

Christina Estes/ KJZZ

Light rail train southbound on 19th Avenue on Sept. 11, 2023.