PHX Reporter

During its May 3 meeting, the Phoenix City Council unveiled the name of the city's newest transit center, which will be named for former mayor and longtime public servant Thelda Williams.

The transit station is under construction at the Metrocenter and is part of the Northwest Light Rail Extension Phase II. It will be named for Williams, who served for more than 30 years on the City Council, beginning in 1989. She was the only person in Phoenix history to be named mayor three times.

Councilmember Ann O'Brien commented that Williams served in a variety of roles on the council and was a major advocate for transit systems and infrastructure.

"I'm excited to support this item to name the Metrocenter Transit Center after my predecessor, Councilwoman and three-time Mayor Thelda Williams," O'Brien said in the meeting. "Thelma has been an institution for decades in the city of Phoenix, having served as the city's second female mayor and the only person in Phoenix history to have served as mayor three times. She accomplished these achievements by working closely with the many members of council who served with her and by putting the needs of the city over politics. She left a lasting legacy of working to get things done for the citizens of Phoenix, and I hope to continue her legacy."

Several board members shared stories of how Williams mentored, advised and supported them during their careers, as well as Williams' dogged support of improved transportation.

"This really is a great honor for a great leader," Councilmember Debra Stark said in the meeting. "I had the privilege of serving with Thelda on the council, but even before that, I knew her when I was the planning director. And I can tell you, she is probably one of the best champions when it comes to good transportation planning, especially in the area of light rail. I can't think of anyone that's more deserving of this recognition, and I applaud that we're doing it."

Councilmember Laura Pastor recalled how she and Williams served on a homelessness task force together. Councilman Jim Waring said that he would vote for the the transit station, something he normally would not do.

“I too look forward to supporting this item," Mayor Kate Gallego said. "The Metrocenter line was one of Councilwoman Williams' legacy projects. She worked very hard to make sure that we engage with the community, that we moved forward with funding this project and when the funding was at risk, she worked hard to protect it.”