A proposed transportation tax extension is expected to be successful in Maricopa County.

The 0.5 cent sales tax was first enacted in 1984 and then updated in 2004. If passed, it would be extended for another 20 years and is expected to fund billions of dollars in transportation projects, including I-10 and I-10 updates. 17.

The bill was referred to a vote by a bipartisan group of state legislators and Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs, despite opposition from a far-right caucus.

Along party lines, Republican lawmakers proposed an alternative tax extension deal that would separate public transportation into a separate ballot measure for voters to consider. However, Mr. Hobbs vetoed the bill.

Republican lawmakers opposed increasing funding for light rail and other transportation projects, but the bipartisan compromise would primarily fund road projects, with most public transit funding going to light rail and other transportation projects. It will not be used for rails.

As of Thursday afternoon, the measure was leading with 60% of the vote.

The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) is a champion of the measure and declared victory Wednesday.

“We are thrilled to be working with Chandler,” said MAG Chair and Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke.

“For 40 years, with the concerted support of local governments with diverse populations and needs, Valley residents have affirmed their commitment to preserving our transportation infrastructure and investing in our future of mobility,” Hartke said. . “Proposition 479 is not only a win for the people of Maricopa County, but a competitive advantage for Arizona businesses.”