Metro Parkway station
| Company type | Transit center |
|---|---|
| Industry | Public transportation |
| Founded | January 27, 2024 |
| Headquarters | Phoenix , United States |
Area served | Phoenix metropolitan area |
| Products | Light rail station, bus transit hub, park and ride lot |
Metro Parkway station, also referred to as the Thelda Williams Transit Center, is an elevated light rail stop situated on the B Line within the Valley Metro Rail network in Phoenix. It functions as the northern endpoint of the B Line. Positioned on the eastern side of the former Metrocenter shopping center, this station includes a park and ride lot alongside a bus transit hub that was relocated and renamed in honor of the late interim mayor, Thelda Williams. As Valley Metro Rail's inaugural elevated station, it commenced operations on January 27, 2024, as part of the Northwest Extension Phase II.
As of , the Thelda Williams Transit Center is served by Valley Metro Bus Routes 27, 35, 90, 106, and the I-17 Rapid.
Transit-oriented development
In 2012, the Carlyle Development Group purchased the mall for $12.2 million with plans to redevelop it over a five to six-year period into a mixed-use complex incorporating retail, residential units, medical facilities, and potentially educational institutions.
By June 2016, Phoenix City Council had approved a comprehensive redevelopment strategy for Metrocenter which included rezoning to accommodate offices, medical centers, residences, retail outlets, dining establishments, apartments, senior living accommodations, and healthcare services. This represented a significant departure from its former exclusive retail zoning.
After 47 years of operation, Metrocenter Mall permanently closed on June 30, 2020, due to dwindling occupancy rates worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and failed revitalization attempts. Remaining inventory was liquidated through an auction held in December 2020.
Demolition commenced on November 18, 2024, initiating a $750 million redevelopment initiative known as The Metropolitan. This forthcoming urban village will encompass retail spaces, residential apartments, and various amenities with an expected launch date in 2026.
A farewell gathering took place in May 2023 featuring a screening of Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, commemorating the mall’s closure prior to demolition.
Future
The Thelda Williams Transit Center will act as the northern terminus for the Phoenix BRT 35th Avenue and Van Buren Street bus rapid transit corridor that links to Central Station. This BRT route strengthens Phoenix’s transit system by delivering high-capacity and efficient service along this vital transportation axis.