In many ways, Downtown Tempe is blessed to be a central hub of so much activity. Spanning just 26 blocks, our downtown district is a collective mix of education, business, entertainment and tourism all throughout the year. We are home to ASU, boast popular outdoor recreation space such as A Mountain and Tempe Town Lake, have over 170 street-level businesses, are host to hundreds of the Valley’s most cherished events, and each year, continue to attract new restaurants, bars, events, and businesses. With so much to see, do, and experience, it’s no wonder that there were 15.5 million visits to Downtown Tempe in 2024 alone.
While it is fun to be the life of the party, ensuring that people can get to and through the downtown area is no small feat.
Enter Tempe TRiP: a groundbreaking transportation and parking tool designed to revolutionize how visitors navigate and experience Downtown Tempe.
What is Tempe TRiP?
Launching in May 2025, Tempe TRiP—an acronym for Transportation, Routes, Info, Parking—is a web application that consolidates real-time parking availability, rates, live transit schedules, and alternative transportation options into one seamless platform. Powered by Modii, a leader in advanced mobility technology, this tool is accessible via mobile or desktop and eliminates the need for app downloads. It also happens to be the only tool of its kind in Arizona.
Smarter Parking and Beyond
Downtown Tempe is a great place to live, work, play, and invest. However, it is not uncommon to hear people say that at times, getting around and knowing where to park can be challenging.
Did you know that Downtown Tempe boasts over 20,000 public parking spaces?
While most people search for one of the 590 coveted on-street spots, which can feel like a high-stakes competition, there are garages and lots that are just as convenient and close to a desired destination. Tempe TRiP alleviates the common pain points and makes it easier to navigate Downtown Tempe by consolidating parking availability, and wayfinding into one mobile friendly platform. The TRiP tool replaces the previously disjointed process—where visitors could find parking but lacked key details like cost, availability, or how to get there—with a real-time, streamlined solution that keeps people moving and gets them to their destination faster and with less frustration. Instead of juggling separate tools or guesswork, visitors now have real-time access to what they need, whether planning ahead or on the go!
But this Tempe TRiP goes far beyond parking. In fall 2025, the application will include live updates and real-time locations for Valley Metro Light Trail, the Tempe Streetcar, and locations for scooter corrals.
The vision is for Tempe TRiP to be a comprehensive mobility solution that simplifies how people travel to and within Downtown Tempe.
While Tempe TRiP does benefit travelers, there are other benefits that a tool like this can offer the community. It has been shown that tools like this help cut down on drivers circling for parking by 30% and can even reduce the amount of citations and enforcements because people know where to park. It also benefits businesses located downtown who rely on customers being able to get downtown and visit them.
According to a study at University of Texas Arlington, there was 60% less fines after they launched Modii.
Anthony Strait, Vice President of Operations for Downtown Tempe Authority, has been leading the project behind the scenes. He has worked with Modii directly, and other key partners, to ensure a successful launch of the application. He emphasized the innovation behind this platform: “As we began building the background, we asked questions and pushed boundaries to incorporate additional features and capabilities. The result is a more comprehensive integrated transportation tool than any community in Arizona, maybe even the nation, is able to offer.”
Collaborating for Success
This transformative tool was made possible through a partnership between Downtown Tempe Authority and the City of Tempe. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to sustainable, data-driven transportation solutions that enhance the visitor experience and support local businesses.
Modii’s expertise also played a critical role. Drawing from successful implementations in other cities, like St. Augustine, Florida, Modii tailored Tempe TRiP to meet the unique needs of the district. The result is a platform that not only simplifies mobility but also sets a new standard for urban planning.
A Glow-Up for Downtown Tempe
Over the past year, Downtown Tempe has undergone significant enhancements to create a safer and more convenient environment for visitors, businesses, and residents. Upgraded lighting, additional security cameras, boosted patrol presence, and modernized parking facilities have all contributed to a more welcoming atmosphere.
Two garages have transitioned to gateless systems using license plate recognition technology. This innovation removes barriers—no gates, no tickets—allowing drivers to park, pay via their phones, and enjoy their time downtown seamlessly.
Experience Tempe TRiP Today
Tempe TRiP is more than a tool; it’s a testament to Downtown Tempe’s commitment to innovation, accessibility and setting the standard for smart urban mobility. Whether you’re attending a concert at Tempe Beach Park, attending a sporting event, or grabbing dinner or happy hour with friends, Tempe TRiP helps make it easier to plan your visit and provides you with everything you need to
To learn more about Tempe TRiP and the benefits, please visit our Tempe TRiP page.
While You Are Here...
There is always something happening in Downtown Tempe. Learn about the Mill Ave Refresh Project, read about all the new places opening in Tempe, get the rundown on upcoming events, or follow us to see the vibe of Downtown Tempe