Phoenix Public Transit Receives a Federal Grant
The Phoenix Public Transit Department recently received a $12.9 million congestion relief grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration. The grant will go to fund Project EASE, also known as Effective Access Solutions for Easing congestion in the city.
Phoenix Public Transit has partnered with Via Transportation to implement microtransit services (more flexible, on demand transit options) and evaluate the effectiveness of the city’s current commuter bus program. The project will also work to discover new ways to decrease congestion within notoriously high congestion zones.
Project EASE is a three-pronged “congestion mitigation initiative” designed to provide options for passengers using public transit. According to a statement made by the city the program includes:
• Implementing three strategically placed microtransit zones in Phoenix over a three-year period.
• Augmenting existing RAPID commuter bus service that will complement the new microtransit zones.
• Integrating new and existing microtransit services into the regional transit software application for trip planning, real-time vehicle tracking and fare payments.
Currently the project is estimated at approximately $16.2 million, with the city providing a match of $3.2 million. More community engagement and outreach efforts will be made by the city beginning in 2025 to help gather public feedback and opinions on implementing the service.
MCSO Cracking Down on DUI Warrants
With an additional $46,000 in their pocket, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Vehicular Crimes Unit is looking for individuals with outstanding warrants related to driving while under the influence. Thanks to the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, MCSO now has the funds to target those individuals who have not presented themselves for warrants including DUI, aggravated DUI, endangerment, aggravated assault and vehicular homicide.
35% of all traffic deaths in Arizona involve alcohol, which is higher than the national average of 32%. Despite Arizona’s stringent DUI laws, we have seen a growing problem with drivers operating vehicles under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Kiwanis Marketplace to Host “Lots in Our Lot” Sale – All Items $2!
Kiwanis Marketplace is thrilled to announce its “Lots in Our Lot” sale on Sunday, Dec. 15, where shoppers can find incredible bargains right in the parking lot, with every item priced at just $2! From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., enjoy a treasure hunt of amazing finds at unbeatable prices. The Marketplace will also be open, ensuring even more deals await inside!
December is a month of celebration and savings at Kiwanis Marketplace, with multiple events lined up to make your holiday shopping joyful and affordable.
Customer Appreciation Sale: Dec. 7
Join as they kick off the holiday season with a half-off sale on selected items to thank loyal customers.
Holiday Sale and a Visit from Santa: Dec. 21
Saturday, Dec. 21. Spread the holiday cheer with special discounts, plus a chance to meet Santa! Wear your favorite holiday attire, and you’ll be entered to win a Kiwanis Marketplace gift card!
End of the Year Sale: Dec. 28
Finish the year strong with incredible end-of-season deals throughout the store!
“Kiwanis Marketplace is excited to celebrate the season with our community by offering amazing deals, festive fun, and a bit of holiday magic,” said Alex Perez, General Manager of Kiwanis Marketplace. “From $2 treasures to Santa’s visit, we have something for everyone to enjoy this December.”
Don’t miss these December events and the chance to shop for a cause. Proceeds from Kiwanis Marketplace sales support Kiwanis Club of Carefree initiatives, helping improve the lives of children and families in the local community.
For more information, visit kiwanismarketplace.org.
What’s New at the Scottsdale Promenade
PVOLVE
Workouts that break your body down are over. Sculpt, strengthen, tone, and feel amazing with a one-of-a-kind workout that mixes functional movement with proprietary equipment to make you look and feel your best—all in a brand new studio that’s tailor-made to get you results. Pvolve offers both 45+ in-person classes each week, as well as 1:1 private training sessions. For more information visit pvolve-studios.com/north-scottsdale.
Hickory Farms
Hickory Farms has your meat loving, gift giving, mustard spreading heart covered. There’s no better way to celebrate the holidays than with delicious, gourmet holiday gift baskets and sweets. The Hickory Farms gift boxes have enough to share, but only if you want to, and with a wide variety of flavors, everyone’s taste buds will be pleased! Hosting a holiday party? Shop the treats that will keep your guests snacking and mingling while you prepare the main course. Charcuterie boards include delicious Hickory Farms Summer Sausage, salami, cheese, holiday spice almonds, sweets, and so much more!
A Taste of AZ Food & Drink Festival
Mark your calendars for Jan. 25, 2025, and make your way to the Salt River Fields for Arizona’s most intimate food and beverage festival, where award-winning restaurants, bars, and beverage producers come together to serve delectable samples. Indulge in a gastronomic journey with array of samples including tacos, burgers, beer, wine, and cocktails while enjoying live music.
The finest food purveyors include: Lola’s Tacos, Spinatos, Brightside Burgers, Hot Sauce & Pepper, The Vig, The Market by Jennifer, Saucy Luke, Clever Koi. Libations will be available from Simple Machine Brewing, Superstition Meadery, Chaco Flaco, The Shop Beer Co., Cider Corps, Barcoa Agaveria and more. Both general admission and VIP packages are available. In the mood to splurge? VIP packages include early entry, unlimited food samples, 15 drink samples and two complimentary tickets to a Spring Training baseball game at Salt River Fields.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit atasteofaz.com/a-taste-of-az-food-and-drink-festival-in-scottsdale-arizona.
