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Tucson's parks are getting a multi-million dollar makeover

Posted at 10:11 AM, Oct 06, 2016
and last updated 2016-10-06 13:11:04-04
Tucson's parks are about to get a major makeover. The City Council just released a 300 page plan to make all of our parks more beautiful and more useful to our community.
The city surveyed the 127 parks across Tucson, and there were 44 public meetings to hear public comments and suggestions to discover what improvements each park needs. 

This plan will cost millions of dollars, but the city has a detailed plan to cover the costs. Some of the measures include:
  • A sales tax referendum
  • Using bond money
  • Applying for grants the city has not previously had access to
  • Partnerships with local organizations
Physical changes you'll eventually see in the parks include:
  • Renovating and replacing old equipment
  • Adding more lighting
  • Adding more shade structures and trees
  • Fitness stations at certain parks
  • Less grass field areas
  • More picnic areas

YIKES! Would you want your kids playing near this? Sharp plastic at Jesse Owens Park in the toddler play area. pic.twitter.com/QqDmUhMgoB

FULL PLAN: See what the park closest to you will get in renovations

One of the most notable changes is the removal of grass. It's very expensive to mow and water, so the city is working to save money there and divert those funds to necessary repairs. This will not happen in every park, and the grass that may be removed will be turned into useable picnic space or space for other activities.

 
Another part of this plan includes starting outreach to more local programs. One goal is to get volunteers involved in maintaining the parks, but the plan also includes outreach to start classes for seniors and the disabled.
 
Of course this is a multi-year, long term plan that will be implemented as funding becomes available.