“Stand Up for South Phoenix" has sent a 2nd letter to City of Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego renewing its call for improved community outreach and language access concerning the ongoing South Central Light Rail Extension Project. The coalition asks for an independent Title VI investigation into allegations of inadequate interpretation services, possible intimidation, and a perceived lack of transparency.

The South Central Light Rail Extension, now in its sixth year of construction, has led to frustration among local residents and businesses who report over 2,150 days of disruption. After repeated calls for accountability and transparency, Valley Metro recently agreed to extend the Small Business Assistance Grant Program deadline from December 31, 2024, to March 31, 2025, an action “Stand Up for South Phoenix” had been advocating.

However, community members remain concerned about limited outreach efforts, citing insufficient communication about project delays and inadequate interpretation services for Spanish-speaking stakeholders.

Language Access Shortfalls and Title VI Implications

In the letter, “Stand Up for South Phoenix” Vice Chair of the Valley Metro Construction Advisory Board (CAB) South, Andrew Richwine, details the organization’s concerns, specifically pointing to difficulties faced by Mrs. Blanca Abarca, the only Spanish-speaking member of the CABs. Observations include:

·      Reliance on untrained staff for interpretation, leading to inaccuracies and confusion.

·      Underestimation of interpretation needs, causing multiple people to attempt simultaneous translation.

·      Lack of interpreters at key moments, requiring bilingual staff with no professional interpreting background to step in.

Such challenges, the coalition states, could violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which mandates that federal grant recipients, including Valley Metro, must provide meaningful language access and avoid discrimination based on national origin.

In many South Phoenix zip codes (85040, 85041, 85042, and parts of 85034), Hispanic or Latino residents make up 50% to 65% of the population, with significant numbers of Spanish speakers. Additionally, the area has a higher reliance on public transit compared to other parts of Phoenix, underscoring the importance of clear and accessible communication about the rail project’s progress and any associated disruptions.

The coalition is formally requesting an independent Title VI investigation to examine:

1.        Valley Metro’s communication strategies with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) individuals.

2.        Alleged incidents of intimidation or hostility towards South Phoenix residents and business owners.

3.        Concerns about retaliation or preferential treatment, including claims that certain businesses might have been blacklisted or denied assistance without clear explanation.

“Stand Up for South Phoenix” plans to continue advocating until construction is completed and local businesses and residents feel their voices are heard. The coalition also awaits Mayor Gallego’s direct response to these concerns, maintaining that all agencies involved must meet their legal and ethical obligations to serve the community equitably.

“Our goal is to ensure that South Phoenix residents and businesses are treated fairly and that no one is left without essential information or resources,” said Richwine. “With federal funding at play, it is crucial that Valley Metro upholds Title VI standards and maintains transparent, inclusive communication practices.”

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