By Gary Nelson | The Arizona Republic
Eminent domain will be used, if necessary, to acquire the last few pieces of land required for Mesa’s light-rail extension.
The City Council authorized that step recently after city staffers said talks had stalled on 23 parcels that Metro light rail needs for right-of-way and easements.
With work under way on the extension from Sycamore Street to east of Mesa Drive, time is running short for Mesa to acquire the tracts.
City engineer Beth Huning told the council in a report that 64 owners have agreed to terms on 100 properties along the 3-mile route. But 17 owners have either not responded or made what the city views as unreasonable counteroffers.
The parcels still on the table are in most cases mere slices of the overall property. The slivers of land along Main Street are needed for vehicle traffic, utility easements and, in some cases, temporary construction access.
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