Phoenix to spend billions on water, the airport and public transportation the next 5 years

Phoenix will focus on building and upgrading water facilities, the airport and public transportation over the next five years, spending more than $8 billion after the City Council approved a spending plan Wednesday.

Every year, the Phoenix mayor and City Council must approve the Capital Improvements Project budget, which outlines how the city will invest in building or improving facilities. The projects are largely funded through bonds, grants, impact fees, voter-approved taxes and user fees — revenue that was collected for specific purposes, such as infrastructure, over which the council has little discretion.

Water and wastewater infrastructure will account for most of the $8.3 billion spending plan at nearly $3 billion, followed by aviation at $1.7 billion, then public transit at $1.3 billion.