Valley Metro

Valley Metro light rail.

Light rail is expanding in the Valley, as public transportation options in the area continue to grow. Valley Metro attracted the 2016 American Public Transportation Association Rail Conference and International Rail Rodeo to Phoenix, which will take place later in June.

First, what the heck is a rail rodeo?

Essentially, a driving competition for rail operators, explained Scott Smith, Valley Metro’s interim CEO and former mayor of Mesa.

"It's actually sort of fun to watch," Smith said.

More seriously, Smith said the events indicate Phoenix's rail system is recognized as a success.