Wheel World News Issue 44 May | Page 4

Spotlight Stories

Featured stories of the month

New Light Rail Stop: 50th Street Station is Now Open!

If you have visited Ability360 recently, you've probably noticed there has been construction on the new light rail stop, the 50th Street Station. As of April 25th, 2019, 50th Street Station is finally open, making access to Ability360 so much easier for wheelchair users. The station, which is located at 50th and Washington streets in Phoenix, is the first station built along the existing Valley Metro Rail system.

This station will set a new standard for accessibility across the nation, which are incorporated as a result of the PHX Innovation Games challenge issued by the city of Phoenix Mayor’s Office. While all light rail stations are Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible with features such as level boarding and lowered fare vending machines, the 50th Street Station features an enhanced pedestrian detection crosswalk signal, wider platforms and gently sloped entries. “Today, we put Phoenix on the map as a leader in accessibility and inclusivity across the nation,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “It’s part of an exciting vision of adding miles of light rail that will connect even more people to resources, most especially our veterans who told us this station is high on their list.”

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Valley Metro Phoenix