North Mountain Park Renovation Update

Updated April 21, 2026

City of Phoenix Project #: PA75200612-1 

Location: Central Phoenix. Located in the northwest area of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve on the west side of 7th Street at Peoria Avenue 

Size: Approximately 37 Acres

Latest Developments

• Design Phase Underway:
  • Final design began in July 2025, led by J2 Environmental Design.
  • As of March 2026, the design is at 60% completion.
  • Design work will continue through 2026, with permitted plans targeted for late 2026.
• Construction Timeline:
  • Start: Late 2026
  • Estimated Completion: Late 2027
  • Park Access: North Mountain Park will likely be closed during renovations, but other trailheads in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve—including the North Mountain Visitor Center—will remain open.

Project Goals & Planned Improvements

The renovation will deliver major upgrades to enhance accessibility, safety, sustainability, and visitor experience, including:

• Accessibility & Trails:
  • Newly designed ADA-accessible Penny Howe Trail.
  • New improved sustainable trail alignment from North Mountain Park connecting to the popular Tower Road.
• Play & Recreation:
  • Interactive nature-themed play area for families.
  • Expanded shade canopies for comfort.
  • Improved picnic areas with more shade, tables and grills.
• Safety & Pedestrian Enhancements:
  • Pedestrian improvements to move walkers away from park roadways.
  • Improved walkable entry way from the intersection of 7^th Street and Peoria Avenue.
  • Additional pedestrian connection added south of Peoria Avenue from 7th Street
• Facilities & Amenities:
  • Three new restrooms including family and ADA accessible options.
  • Chilled drinking fountains with bottle fillers for visitors.
  • Ice machines to assist first responders during rescue efforts.
• Educational & Scenic Features:
  • Interpretive signs highlighting natural and cultural history.
  • Shaded scenic viewpoints for enjoying the preserve.
• Environmental & Infrastructure Upgrades:
  • Restored natural vegetation areas.
  • Removal of excess asphalt to reduce heat and improve aesthetics.
  • Energy-efficient LED lighting for sustainability.
  • Automatic gates for improved security.
  • New irrigation systems to support healthy landscapes.
  • New sewer connection to replace the outdated septic system.
  • New green stormwater infrastructure to harvest rainwater to support native vegetation

Background & Public Engagement

• 2023 Public Input Process:
  • Public Opinion Survey: November 28, 2022 – January 1, 2023
  • Feedback informed potential amenities and improvements.
• Design Concepts & Open Houses:
  • April 5, 2023: First open house at North Mountain Visitor Center; two design concepts presented.
  • Online Survey: April 5 – April 21, 2023 for additional feedback.
• Draft Master Plan:
  • June 20, 2023: Follow-up open house with refined plan.
  • Preferred Alternative Survey: Closed July 14, 2023.
• Approval:
  • November 16, 2023: Parks and Recreation Board approved the master plan.

What’s Next?

• Continued design development through 2026.
• Permitting and preparation for construction start in late winter 2026.
• Regular updates will be shared as milestones are reached.