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For anyone in Tucson and all around Pima County, we have a big vote ahead. On March 10, 2026, voters will decide whether to continue investing in our region’s transportation system through a new plan called RTA Next Tucson transportation plan.
Here’s the background in simple terms. In 2006, voters approved a 20-year transportation plan and a half-cent sales tax to fund it. That plan brought in about $1.6 billion and made a lot of improvements across the region. But it will expire on June 30, 2026.
To keep moving forward, the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) created a new plan called RTA Next. This plan reflects public input and technical planning. The RTA Board approved it in August 2025.
What You Will See on the Ballot
There are two propositions on the ballot:
- Proposition 418 asks voters to approve the new RTA Next Tucson transportation plan.
- Proposition 419 asks voters to approve the sales tax funding for the plan.
If both propositions pass, the plan goes into effect and the sales tax rate stays the same. We will simply transition from the old plan to the new one without paying more in taxes.
What RTA Next Would Do for Our Region
RTA Next is a 20-year, $2.67 billion investment in how we get around Tucson and all of Pima County. It is designed to help everyone who uses our roads, sidewalks, bike paths, transit, and more.
This new plan includes funding for:
- Roadway improvements including corridors with multimodal design elements.
- Transit services and enhancements that help support Sun Tran and regional mobility.
- Safety and ADA upgrades with better crossings, signals, and accessible infrastructure.
- Bicycle and pedestrian facilities so more people can travel safely without a car.
- Environmental improvements that help manage stormwater and protect open spaces.
All of these are meant to reduce congestion, improve accessibility, and make our region safer and more connected.
Why This Matters to Tucson
I live and work here, just like you. I see firsthand how important it is that we plan for our future. Tucson is growing, and our transportation system needs to grow with us. This vote gives us the chance to plan for 20 more years of improvements rather than letting the current plan simply expire.
Without voter approval, we risk slowing or losing momentum on big projects. That could mean delayed transit expansion, fewer upgrades to critical roadways, and less funding for bike and pedestrian safety.
Final Thoughts
I encourage everyone who lives, works, or travels through our region to learn about RTA Next Tucson transportation plan and make an informed choice in March. This vote will impact how we get around for decades to come.
If you want to explore more about the plan and see maps, project lists, and FAQs, check out the official RTA Next site.
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