METRO is seeking community input on potential routes and transit modes under evaluation in METRO’s Tempe South Alternatives Analysis. The Tempe South project study area is bounded by the Tempe Branch of the Union Pacific Railroad on the west, Loop 101 on the east, Route 202 (Red Mountain Freeway) on the north and Route 202 (Santan Freeway) on the south.

Since the first series of community meetings held in January 2008, potential routes that provide connection to Tempe, Chandler and the 20-mile light rail starter line, have been further reviewed. Elements such as potential ridership, costs and environmental impacts continue to be studied in an effort to narrow in on the most cost effective solution to this corridor’s travel demand and transportation problems.

Staff will be on-hand to present project updates and answer questions. The meeting dates and locations are:

    • 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, June 10, Tempe Public Library 3500 S. Rural Road

• 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, Corona del Sol High School, 1001 E. Knox Road

Opportunities for public involvement will occur throughout the project development process. Those unable to attend the meetings may send their comments to Pamela Cecere at 602-385-1622 or pcecere@metrolightrail.org.

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Tempe bus riders are encouraged to attend an open house/public hearing to learn about potential bus service changes proposed for December 2008.  The purpose of the open house is to get input from Tempe residents on the proposed changes. The open

house/public hearing will occur June 10 at 7:30 a.m. at Hatton Hall, located at 34 E. Seventh St.

Affected routes include Red Line, 1, 30, 56, 65, 66, 72, 76, 81, 108, Flash, Orbit Mercury, Earth and Mars. An online comment form is available until June 24 at www.tempe.gov/tim. Residents may also submit written comments to Tempe in Motion, P.O. Box 5002, Tempe, Ariz., 85280. For information, call 480-350-2775.