Pima County, Arizona, is preparing a major public vote in March 2026 on whether to extend a half‑cent sales tax for another 20 years to fund more than $2.67 billion in construction and infrastructure projects. The measure comes amid increasing concern over cost overruns and delays that have raised questions about accountability for taxpayer funds.
The proposed extension builds on a prior voter‑approved tax from 2006 that was originally intended to raise $2.1 billion. That original plan now requires an additional $257.6 million to complete unfinished projects. Officials say shortfalls stem from the 2008 recession and rising construction costs. One high‑profile project, the Downtown Links corridor in Tucson, was originally budgeted at $76 million but has since ballooned to $110 million—over 40% higher than the initial estimate, according to the Phoenix‑based Goldwater Institute.
The Goldwater Institute has raised red flags about mismanagement in the region’s transit planning and execution. William Beard, a municipal‑affairs liaison for the institute, described the Downtown Links cost overrun as “indicative of some of the problems Tucson and the RTA have in delivering what was promised to the voters.” He argued delays and lack of contingency planning have driven costs upward, and questioned whether city taxpayer dollars are being spent wisely.
The tax extension is being championed by the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), a political subdivision overseeing transit funding for Pima County. Last September the Pima County Board of Supervisors agreed to place the measure on the ballot. If approved, the tax would begin its next phase in July 2026.
Supporters argue the extension is vital to completing longstanding infrastructure needs. Detractors point to project delays, budget overruns, and unanswered questions about oversight. Some voters are frustrated by the handling of the Downtown Links project and worry future funds may be similarly mismanaged.
As the March vote approaches, both sides are ramping up their arguments—voters in Pima County face weighing the promise of improved transit and roads against concerns over fiscal accountability and government transparency.
