| Know Before You Go: APS Electric Light Parade | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3294 | Parks and Recreation | | 12/6/2024 12:00:00 AM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3294/Newsroom Image (3).png | | Know Before You Go: APS Electric Light Parade | <div class="ExternalClass8C138E26EFFF4074840C42FD51699F3C"><html>
<div></div><div><span style="font-size:13.3333px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">The lights and sounds of the annual APS Electric Light Parade are returning this holiday season! Arizona Public Service (APS) and the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department would like to invite you to join us for a night of community and celebration. Entrants will interpret the theme of "Let Every Holiday Shine” and are sure to light up the streets of central Phoenix on Saturday, Dec. 7, with their visually stunning displays!</span></div><div><span style="font-size:13.3333px;"><br></span></div><h3><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Know Before You Go</span></h3><p><strong style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:17.3333px;">Street Closures</strong></p><div></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Road closures and restrictions affect all parade areas hours before the event; come early and expect delays. The following roads are closed from 5- 11:00 p.m. <br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Central Ave: From Camelback to Bethany Home Road<br style=""></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">7th Street: From Indian School to Osborn Road<br style=""></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Camelback Road: 1st Avenue to 7th Street<br style=""></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><span id="ms-rterangepaste-start"></span><strong style="color:windowtext;background-color:window;">Parade Route</strong><span id="ms-rterangepaste-end"></span><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">The 2.3 mi. parade route starts at Central Ave. and Montebello Ave., travels south to Central Ave. and Camelback Rd., heads east along Camelback Rd. to 7th St., and continues south along 7th St. to its conclusion at Indian School Rd. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">The first parade will begin at <strong>7 p.m.</strong> and take approximately 60 minutes to reach the end. It is strongly recommended that attendees arrive several hours in advance of the start of the parade to secure a viewing location.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><strong style="">Arrival/Parking</strong></span></div><div><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:17.3333px;">Parking is available on City streets around the parade route and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Private lots near the parade area often offer parking for a fee.<br></span></div><div><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:17.3333px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:17.3333px;">Consider taking Valley Metro Light Rail to the event to avoid traffic congestion. The parade route runs near the Light Rail stop at Central Ave., just south of Camelback Rd.</span></div><div><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:17.3333px;"><br></span></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><strong style="">Reminders & Helpful Tips</strong></span></div><div><ul><li><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;"></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;">The parade is a </span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;text-decoration-line:underline;">rain or shine event</span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;">. </span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;">Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Spectators often start arriving hours prior to parade time to reserve <span style="color:windowtext;background-color:window;">a spot; arrive early for the best view!</span></span></li><li><span style="color:windowtext;background-color:window;font-size:17.3333px;">Spectators are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs for seating.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Coolers are permitted, but alcoho<span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;">l and glass containe</span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;">rs are prohibited.</span></span></li></ul></div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><strong style="">Parade Broadcast</strong></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Can't attend the parade in person? ABC15 will broadcast the parade live and will stream the event on the following dates: </span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:17.3333px;">Facebook Live: ABC15 will air the parade on Facebook Live on December 7.</span></div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Sunday, December 15 on ABC15 from 4-5 p.m.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Wednesday, December 25 on ABC15 from 9-10 a.m. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Wednesday, December 25 on Arizona61 from 12-1 p.m. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">PHXTV will air the parade throughout the month of December on Channel 11.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:13.3333px;"><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">The parade will be available for view on the APS Electric Light Parade website: </span><a href="https://phoenix.gov/elp" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">phoenix.gov/elp</span></a>.</span></div><p><br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| City of Phoenix Offers Up to $3,000 in Incentive Pay to Certified Aquatics Staff | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3293 | Parks and Recreation | | 11/26/2024 3:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3293/Lifeguards-Cover.png | | City of Phoenix Offers Up to $3,000 in Incentive Pay to Certified Aquatics Staff | <div class="ExternalClassFD9760EE02D546DD9C13B2AEE2984866"><html>
<p><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is offering up to <strong>$3,000</strong> in incentive pay for certified aquatics staff. The department needs to hire pool managers, assistant managers and hundreds of lifeguards ahead of the 2025 pool season to safely open as many of the City's 29 public pools as possible.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Eligible certified managers and assistant managers will receive a total $3,000 in incentive pay; while eligible certified swim instructors will receive a total of $2,000, eligible certified lifeguards will receive a total of $1,500 and eligible certified shallow water lifeguards will receive a total of $1,000. Managers and Assistant managers will receive $500 on the first paycheck in June, and the remaining incentive as a one-time payment at the end of the 2025 pool season, while all lifeguard positions will receive $250 on the first paycheck in June with the remainder at the end of the 2025 pools season. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">To receive the pay, a person must become certified as a lifeguard, work the entire summer, work a minimum of three days in August and finish in good standing. The department is also offering a $250 employee referral payment.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Lifeguard interviews will be held on <strong>Saturday, March 22, 2025</strong>.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Returning for the third year, the department is offering a 'Shallow Water Lifeguard' position. Shallow-water lifeguards will guard four feet of water and under.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">The incentive pay reimburses individuals for the cost and time spent obtaining the lifeguard certification and compensates them for the skill sets needed to keep our community safe. The hourly rates per position, are listed below:</span></p><ul style="" class="" dir=""><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Pool Managers: $23.74/hour or $26.18/hour</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Assistant Pool Managers: $21.54/hour</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Swim Lesson Instructor: $19.54/hour</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Lifeguards: $17.72/hour</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Shallow Water Lifeguard: $16.88/hour</span></li></ul><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Get certified now so you are ready to interview on March 22, 2025! Certification classes have already begun and are available for registration at multiple locations through March. Lifeguards must complete the necessary training during the scheduled class times.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:14.6667px;"><strong>Benefits of being a certified lifeguard:</strong></span></p><ol style="" class="" dir=""><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">$1,500 incentive pay</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">$17.72 an hour base pay</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Learn lifesaving skills</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">4. Work in your neighborhood</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Keep your community safe and be a role model for kids</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Looks great on a college application or resume, demonstrates teamwork, responsibility, and leadership skills</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Meet other dedicated people</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Flexible summer shifts, ideal for students</span></li><li><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Have fun!</span></li></ol><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">StarGuard Training for lifeguard certification is required to become a lifeguard with the City of Phoenix. Those interested in becoming a lifeguard should register for a certification class right away. Applicants must be at least 15 years old. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Learn more about becoming a Phoenix Lifeguard at <a href="https://phoenix.gov/lifeguard" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/lifeguard</a>. </span></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| City of Phoenix Celebrates 100 Years of Stewardship at South Mountain Park and Preserve | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3273 | Parks and Recreation | | 11/8/2024 7:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3273/Ribbon Cut.png | | City of Phoenix Celebrates 100 Years of Stewardship at South Mountain Park and Preserve | <div class="ExternalClassF4F00DB6E1AB40DD8BFD6FCDA1CCD432"><html>
<p>
<span style="font-size:17.3333px;">On Friday, the City of Phoenix commemorated the centennial anniversary of stewardship at South Mountain Park and Preserve. The milestone was marked with a celebration at the newly renovated South Mountain Visitor Center and was attended by City officials, community members and park enthusiasts. </span>
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<span style="font-size:17.3333px;">As one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, South Mountain Park and Preserve spans over 16,000 acres of diverse desert landscapes, making it an essential natural resource and recreational hub for the community. Over the past century, it has served as a sanctuary for wildlife and a cherished space for outdoor activities, education, and cultural enrichment.</span>
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<span style="font-size:17.3333px;">“South Mountain Park is a cherished landmark in Phoenix, and we are thrilled to celebrate its 100th anniversary today," said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “Not only is the park a wonderful place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but it is also an integral part of Phoenix's history and our shared identity as a city. My son and I have spent countless days walking along the park's many paths and exploring its natural beauty and I look forward to generations of Phoenicians enjoying South Mountain for many more decades to come."</span>
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<span style="font-size:17.3333px;">“Today's celebration is a chance to honor the past while looking forward. South Mountain Park and Preserve is a significant landmark. We must continue to protect and preserve it, ensuring it remains a space where people of all backgrounds can learn about our natural heritage and enjoy the outdoors. Our commitment is to keep it accessible and welcoming for everyone," said District 8 Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington.</span>
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<span style="font-size:17.3333px;">“South Mountain Park and Preserve is a vital part of our City, offering a natural refuge for our community and a space for recreation, education, and connection with nature. It represents our commitment to preserving our natural heritage for future generations, and I am proud to be part of its ongoing stewardship," said District 6 Councilman Kevin Robinson.</span>
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<span style="font-size:17.3333px;">The recent renovation of the South Mountain Visitor Center was an integral part of the celebration. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to unveil the newly designed interior. Formerly known as the South Mountain Environmental Education Center, the Visitor Center has been enhanced with a modern look and updated exhibits that highlight the history and significance of South Mountain Park and Preserve.</span>
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<span style="font-size:17.3333px;">“As a native Phoenician who grew up at the base of South Mountain, I feel immense gratitude to celebrate this momentous occasion with our community. We are committed to continuing our stewardship efforts and ensuring that South Mountain Park and Preserve remains a cherished destination for generations to come," said Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department Director, Cynthia Aguilar.</span>
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<span style="font-size:17.3333px;">The centennial celebration featured various interactive activities, including guided hikes, pollinator planting, a live snake exhibit and music performances. A highlight of the event was the photo stations, where attendees had the opportunity to take a commemorative photo with a Polaroid camera and place it inside the South Mountain centennial time capsule, which now has a permanent location inside an interior wall in the South Mountain Visitor Center.</span>
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<span style="font-size:17.3333px;">With 100 years of stewardship behind us, the City of Phoenix looks forward to the next century of preserving and promoting South Mountain Park and Preserve as a natural haven for all. </span></p><p><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:17.3333px;">For more information about Phoenix parks and trails, visit </span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">
</span><a href="https://phoenix.gov/parks/trails" target="_blank" style="background-color:window;font-size:10pt;">
<span style="font-size:17.3333px;">phoenix.gov/parks/trails</span></a>.<span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"></span></p>
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</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| Phoenix Parks Board Approves Expansion of Trail Closure Program to South Mountain and Implements Earlier Trail Closures | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3256 | Parks and Recreation | | 10/25/2024 3:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3256/Newsroom Image.jpg | | Phoenix Parks Board Approves Expansion of Trail Closure Program to South Mountain and Implements Earlier Trail Closures | <div class="ExternalClassB1C6982483FF4B058F6E8CBC37998A97"><html>
<div><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">
On Thursday evening, the City of Phoenix Parks Board voted in favor of expanding the Phoenix Trails and Heat Safety Program to include all trails at South Mountain Park and Preserve and to implement trail closures beginning at 8 a.m., rather than the previous time of 9 a.m. Effective immediately, these proactive measures will ensure the safety of trail users and first responders during extreme weather conditions, particularly during the summer months.
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Currently, the Phoenix Trails and Heat Safety Program encompasses the Echo Canyon and Cholla Trails at Camelback Mountain, as well as the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail and associated trails at the Phoenix Mountains Preserve. These trails are closed when an Excessive Heat Warning is issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). By expanding the program to include South Mountain Park and Preserve, the City will enhance safety measures, ensuring that both trail users and first responders are protected from heat-related risks similar to those present at Camelback Mountain and Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
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"I am proud of the decision we made this evening after careful consideration of key data from our Parks and Fire Departments, as well as valuable input from the public. Our Board’s decision to expand the Phoenix Trails and Heat Safety Program to South Mountain Park/Preserve, along with earlier trail closures during excessive heat warnings, is a proactive measure to reduce heat-related incidents," said Kelly Dalton, Chair of the City of Phoenix Parks Board. "The safety of our residents and visitors is always our top priority, and this decision underscores our commitment to ensuring Phoenix’s trails remain safe and accessible. We will continue to assess and strengthen these measures as needed to protect our community."
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In 2024, Phoenix experienced 45 days of trail closures due to extreme heat between May 1 and October 13, with a total of 121 days reaching temperatures of 105°F or higher. Notably, 69 of those days exceeded 110°F. This extreme heat not only raises the risk of heat-related incidents but also poses significant challenges for first responders during mountain rescues.
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Despite these conditions, the Phoenix Trails and Heat Safety Program has been effective in managing outdoor activities during the hottest months, as affirmed by the decrease in rescues on closed trails from 2021 to 2024:
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• 2021: 57 rescues
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• 2022: 47 rescues
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• 2023: 30 rescues
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• 2024: 35 rescues
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“We are committed to proactively collaborating with the parks department to ensure the safety of our residents and firefighters during extreme heat events. By expanding this program with data driven decisions, the City of Phoenix can enhance trail safety and reduce risks for everyone enjoying our beautiful parks," Executive Assistant Phoenix Fire Chief, Tim Kreis.
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In addition to approving the expansion of the Phoenix Trails and Heat Safety Program and adjusting trail closure hours to 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Parks Board has directed Parks and Recreation staff to present further recommendations to the Board in January 2025. Proposed changes include moving the closure time to 7 a.m. and adjusting the trail closure threshold to activate when daily temperatures are forecast to exceed 105°F, rather than waiting for Excessive Heat Warnings from the NWS.
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The Parks and Recreation Department recognizes the significant impact of the proposed changes and will launch a community engagement campaign to inform the public and gather feedback. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to stay informed about trail closures and safety recommendations through the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department's <a target="_blank" href="/parks/trails">website</a> and social media channels.
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</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| Neighborhood Parks Enhancement Program to Invest $1.5 Million in Local Park Improvements | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3225 | Parks and Recreation | | 9/27/2024 3:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3225/NPEP-Park.jpg | | Neighborhood Parks Enhancement Program to Invest $1.5 Million in Local Park Improvements | <div class="ExternalClassE1E1C9A753CC40B6953833D47D09FA7C"><html>
<p>
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">The Parks and Recreation Department is thrilled to announce the </span>
<a href="https://action.phoenix.gov/c1.pl?38ec291a3d53dbcf570c15519aba14cf5e62b4cf457f337ecdf23c638f080b72" target="_blank">
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Neighborhood Parks Enhancement Program</span>
</a>
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">, funded by the recently approved </span>
<a href="https://action.phoenix.gov/c1.pl?09047331485cb2affad2ac753b297c4b7d199365d6c2841c" target="_blank">
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">General Obligation (GO) Bond Program</span>
</a>
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">. With $1.5 million allocated for minor capital improvement projects, this program will earmark funds for neighborhoods in each council district to enhance their local parks. This is just one example of how bond funds are making a difference in local communities.</span>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">"The Neighborhood Parks Enhancement Program is about more than just funding—it's about fostering localized community engagement to match the most appropriate park improvements to the needs of individual communities and neighborhoods throughout the City,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “This investment is a powerful step toward revitalizing our neighborhoods and increasing access to wonderful parks for all Phoenix residents to enjoy.”<br style=""></span>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">From September 27 to November 8, 2024, eligible applicants can submit their project proposals </span>
<a href="https://action.phoenix.gov/c1.pl?38ec291a3d53dbcf570c15519aba14cf5e62b4cf457f337ecdf23c638f080b72" target="_blank">
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">online</span>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">. To be considered, projects must be located at a City of Phoenix park and the applicant must be a neighborhood organization listed with the Neighborhood Services Department. If a neighborhood organization is not yet registered, they may do so at </span>
<a href="https://action.phoenix.gov/c1.pl?ec3234527a9e226ddd57624926160029e9ef044ab77b6ccc" target="_blank">
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">www.phoenix.gov/nsd/programs/neighborhood-coordination</span>
</a>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Projects selected for funding will be announced in early 2025, and all approved projects will be completed within the GO Bond Program timeframe, spanning from 2024 to 2029, as determined by the Parks and Recreation Department.<br style=""></span>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">“We are excited to launch this program and provide resources for our neighborhoods to enhance their parks," said Cynthia Aguilar, Director of the Parks and Recreation Department. "We believe that these improvements will make a positive impact on our communities and create more opportunities for residents to enjoy outdoor spaces. We look forward to seeing innovative proposals that will enhance our parks and bring communities together.”<br style=""></span>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">For more information and to apply, please visit the program </span>
<a href="https://action.phoenix.gov/c1.pl?38ec291a3d53dbcf570c15519aba14cf5e62b4cf457f337ecdf23c638f080b72" target="_blank">
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">website</span>
</a>
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">. </span>
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</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| Parks and Recreation Launches 24/7 Parks Code of Conduct Answering Service | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3220 | Parks and Recreation | | 9/24/2024 4:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3220/NRD-Deem Hills.jpg | | Parks and Recreation Launches 24/7 Parks Code of Conduct Answering Service | <div class="ExternalClassEFB46B6995154FECAA4653037E42F24A"><html>
<p>
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is excited to announce the launch of the new 24/7 Parks Code of Conduct Answering Service. This new feature, available at <strong style="">602-534-9919</strong>, is designed to capture residents’ concerns regarding code of conduct violations and provide a mechanism to contact Park Rangers who can respond.<br style=""></span>
</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">The service is available 24 hours a day, providing residents with a direct line to report any concerns they may have while visiting Phoenix parks. The answering service can be used to report any violations that occur within park boundaries. <br style=""></span>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">When calling the answering service, residents will speak to an operator who will log their concerns and forward them to the Park Ranger team. Rangers will then review the details of the call and respond as available, balancing other priority calls.<br style=""></span>
</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">"We understand that our parks are a valuable resource for our community, and we want to ensure that they are safe and enjoyable for everyone," said Cynthia Aguilar, Director of the Parks and Recreation Department. "This hotline will provide residents with an instant opportunity to report information that we can then be aware of and respond to, helping us provide a better experience for all park visitors." <br style=""></span>
</p>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Callers can provide their name, phone number and email address. Park Rangers will only reach out if further information about the reported issue is needed. <br style=""></span>
</p>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">If there is a life-threatening emergency or crime taking place, residents should dial 911.</span>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">To learn more about the Parks Code of Conduct and trespassing policies, residents can visit the Parks and Recreation Department’s website at </span>
<a target="_blank" href="/parks/code-of-conduct">
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">www.phoenix.gov/parks/code-of-conduct</span>
</a>
<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">.</span>
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<span style="font-size:14.6667px;">The new 24/7 Parks Code of Conduct Answering Service demonstrates the City’s commitment to maintaining safe, clean, and accessible parks to be enjoyed by all. For any questions or concerns, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department’s Natural Resources Division at 602-495-5458 or natural.resources@phoenix.gov. </span>
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</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| South Mountain Environmental Education Center Name Changes to ‘Visitor Center’ | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3206 | Parks and Recreation | | 9/5/2024 8:30:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3206/SMEEC-for-Newsroom.jpg | | South Mountain Environmental Education Center Name Changes to ‘Visitor Center’ | <div class="ExternalClass3AEA6F5B8C7E45F7AB2120C1604FA4A6"><html>
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<p>The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department has announced a change in the name of the South Mountain Environmental Education Center. The center will now be known as the South Mountain Visitor Center. This change is part of a larger effort to enhance the visitor experience at one of Phoenix's most beloved outdoor destinations. </p>
<p>The name changed was approved Thursday evening during Thursday's Parks and Recreation Board meeting. </p>
<p>"The decision to change the name of the center was made to better reflect its purpose as a hub for visitors to South Mountain Park and Preserve," Parks Board Chair Kelly Dalton said. “We want to make it clear that this center serves as a welcoming space for all who come to enjoy this beautiful park." </p>
<p>In addition to the name change, the South Mountain Visitor Center is currently undergoing renovations. These renovations will include upgraded exhibits that tell the story of South Mountain Park and Preserve. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the history of this unique desert environment. </p>
<p>"We are excited about these changes and believe they will greatly enhance the visitor experience at South Mountain Park and Preserve," said Parks and Recreation Director Cynthia Aguilar. “Our goal is to create an engaging and informative space where visitors can learn about this incredible natural resource while also enjoying all that it has to offer." </p>
<p>In anticipation of the reopening celebration to mark 100 years of City stewardship, the South Mountain Visitor Center will reopen on November 8, 2024. <br></p>
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| Phoenix Parks and Recreation Launches Master Plan Program | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3204 | Parks and Recreation | | 9/3/2024 1:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3204/Master Plan for Newsroom.png | | Phoenix Parks and Recreation Launches Master Plan Program | <div class="ExternalClassD4F347C9E53041498CBEBCCD90F0FFF7"><html>
<p>The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is excited to announce the launch of our master plan process, which will guide the future development and management of our City's parks and recreation facilities. This comprehensive plan will set the standard for years to come and ensure that our community's green spaces continue to thrive.<br></p><p>One of the key components of this master plan process is public engagement. We recognize that our parks and recreation facilities are vital to the health and well-being of our community, and we want to hear from you! We are committed to gathering meaningful feedback from residents, stakeholders, and park users throughout this process.</p><p>Community input will be crucial in shaping the priorities and goals for our parks system. We encourage everyone to visit parksmasterplanphx.com to learn more about how they can get involved in this important process. From surveys and public meetings to interactive workshops, there will be multiple opportunities for community members to share their thoughts on what they want to see in their neighborhood parks.</p><p>In addition to public engagement, this master plan process will also focus on important issues such as water use and public safety through Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). By incorporating sustainable practices into park design and implementing CPTED principles, we are committed to creating safe, welcoming spaces for all members of our community.</p><p>“Our parks and recreation facilities touch every person in our community, providing spaces for connection, recreation, and tranquility," Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said. “Launching our master plan is a crucial step in ensuring that these amenities remain active, cared for, and accessible for future generations. We are committed to creating a plan and a vision that reflects the needs and hopes of all Phoenix residents."</p><p>"Our goal is not only to create a beautiful park system but also one that meets the needs and desires of our diverse community" Parks and Recreation Director Cynthia Aguilar said. “Meaningful feedback from residents is crucial in achieving this goal."</p><p>The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to providing exceptional parks and recreation facilities for all residents to enjoy. We look forward to working together with the community to create a master plan that reflects the needs and wants of our City. Stay tuned for updates on the master plan process at https://parksmasterplanphx.com/.<br></p>
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