Backers of Prop. 479 Secure $3 Million Boost for Transportation Tax Initiative

In November, Maricopa County voters will face a crucial decision regarding the extension of a half-cent sales tax designated for transportation projects. A bipartisan campaign, known as Connect Maricopa, is making a significant push, investing $3 million to encourage a “yes” vote on Proposition 479.

Launched earlier this year, Connect Maricopa has gained substantial backing from various political groups to facilitate the passage of the proposition. Originally approved in 1985, this tax extension aims to support a range of infrastructure projects over the next two decades.

Recent polling by Noble Predictive Insights revealed that over 60% of voters currently favor the tax extension. However, the campaign remains vigilant, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the political landscape. “We’re not taking anything for granted,” said Lorna Romero Ferguson, the campaign spokesperson.

The $3 million in campaign funds is allocated to digital advertising, mail campaigns, and television promotions. Romero Ferguson noted the importance of ensuring voters are informed about Prop. 479 amidst the extensive Maricopa County ballot. Fortunately for the campaign, it appears there won’t be a formal opposition against the measure.

Romero Ferguson emphasized the rare collaboration across political lines for this initiative. “To see business organizations and labor unions come together in support of one issue is pretty rare,” she stated. In terms of support, the campaign has received 49 ballot arguments favoring Prop. 479, compared to just four opposing it.

Despite the strong backing, some political figures are vocal in their opposition. Senator Jake Hoffman from Queen Creek has publicly encouraged voters to reject Prop. 479, describing the extension as costly, projecting a $24 billion expenditure over 20 years. However, the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) disputes this claim, stating that the tax will generate approximately $14.9 billion for the county’s infrastructure.

According to MAG, a majority of the funding from Prop. 479 will focus on freeways, roads, and arterial projects. This includes much-needed upgrades for major routes like Interstate 10 and finalizing projects along Loop 303. The proposition will also provide vital services for older and disabled residents in the Valley.

MAG’s assistant executive director, John Bullen, highlighted the historical significance of prior propositions. He pointed out that Prop. 300 and Prop. 400 played critical roles in developing Valley infrastructure. “Those big, core freeways were all funded through Prop 300,” Bullen said, referring to the network of freeways crucial for local transportation.

Without the extension of Prop. 479, Maricopa County risks a substantial reduction in its transportation funding, according to Bullen. “We wouldn’t be able to keep up with growth in the future,” he warned, indicating that this could lead to longer commute times and mounting delays.

Bullen underscored a critical point: Prop. 479 does not introduce a new tax but merely continues an existing one that residents have supported since 1985. “The amount that folks would be paying on January 1, 2026, is the same exact amount that they would be paying on December 31, 2025,” he clarified.