Many thanks to all the park supporters who came to the meeting on Thursday April 18 at Rio Vista. And deep gratitude to Tucson Parks and Recreation Commissioners Robin McArdle, Manon Getsi, Beki Quintero, and Steve Poe for recommending that Tucson Parks and Recreation staff take feedback from the Rio Vista community on the proposed implementation of the park master plan. Special thanks to Commissioner McArdle for speaking so eloquently at the meeting about the need for consensus and stakeholder involvement.
Friends of Rio Vista and allied stakeholders are disappointed that Tucson Parks chose not to follow the commission’s recommendation and that staff will not accept comments or address concerns from the community. But, as long-term partners of the department, we’ll continue to work toward safety and sustainability of the Rio Vista ecosystem for all those who love it and live in it.
Construction will begin on Tuesday April 23, according to the Tucson Parks project manager, Matt Christman. Water-harvesting basins will be excavated. Segments of trail will be raised. Trails will be closed, including parallel segments that now allow visitors to avoid hazardous encounters. All trails that are not closed will be widened to 6–8 feet, with removal of vegetation, if necessary. Interns from the Arizona Conservation Corps will do the construction, under the supervision of Matt and the design contractor. Please be careful as you walk, ride, run, or use your mobility equipment through the park while construction is in progress.
Because Friends of Rio Vista has concerns about the scheduled trail modifications and revegetation approach, we will not field volunteers to participate in construction or planting. We would worry about the safety and liability of anyone who participated in these activities. We’re discussing potential volunteer opportunities with our partners at Tucson Audubon Society, who will be leading the removal of invasive plants in the park. If you’re interested in volunteering for this effort, please e-mail us at FriendsofRioVistaNRP@gmail.com with “Volunteer” in the subject line.
The Rio Vista ecosystem and its diverse community are resilient. Let’s work together to find balance.