| City Pools and Swim Lesson Information for Summer 2024 | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3061 | Parks and Recreation | | 3/29/2024 3:30:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3061/2024-Pool-Information.png | | City Pools and Swim Lesson Information for Summer 2024 | <div class="ExternalClassCB253964A40144BBA9D88F973895345C"><html>
<p>Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department staff looks forward to seeing community members at City pools during summer 2024 and would like them to be aware of important details about pool operations and dates for swim lesson registration. </p>
<p>The department will open 16 pools all season long and an additional two pools, one in June and one in July, for a total of 18 pools this summer.</p>
<p>Pools open for the entire season: <strong>Coronado, Cortez, Deer Valley, El Prado, Encanto, Falcon, Harmon, Madison, Maryvale, Paradise Valley, Pecos, Perry, Roosevelt, Starlight, Sunnyslope, Washington </strong><strong>pools.</strong> These pools will be open May 25-27, June 1-July 28 (closed Fridays).</p>
<p>
<strong>Cielito Pool</strong> will be open in June, as well as Memorial Day Weekend. The open dates for Cielito pool are May 25- 27 and June 1- 27 (closed Fridays). </p>
<p>
<strong>David C. Uribe Pool</strong> will be open in July from July 1-28 (closed Fridays).</p>
<p>
<strong>Select pools open for extended season include </strong>
<strong>Cortez, Encanto, Maryvale, Paradise Valley, Pecos, Perry, Roosevelt, Sunnyslope pools. These 8</strong>
<strong> </strong>
<strong>pools will be open </strong>weekends through Labor Day. Open dates are August 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24-25 and August 31 - September 2.</p>
<p>Youth ages 17 and younger will receive FREE admission to swim at select Kool Kids pools. Adults can swim for $3 and seniors for $1 (age 60 and older). Kool Kids pools are as follows: <strong>Cielito, Coronado, David C. Uribe, Deer Valley, Encanto, El Prado, Falcon, Harmon, Madison, Maryvale, Perry, Roosevelt, Starlight, Sunnyslope, Washington pools.</strong> </p>
<h3>
Swim Lessons for Youth and Adults
</h3>
<p>Swim lessons at city pools will be available to adults and youth ages six months and older. Registration for June classes begins on April 25, at 12 p.m. Registration for July classes begins on June 14, at 12 p.m. Swim lesson dates are staggered throughout the summer, as listed below:</p>
<ul>
<li><p>Session A: June 3-13</p></li>
<li><p>Session B: June 17-27</p></li>
<li><p>Session C: July 1-11 </p></li>
<li><p>Session D: July 15-25</p></li>
</ul>
<p>Due to the limited space available in each session and class, a registration waitlist will be maintained. The complete swim lesson schedule for 2024 and instructions about how to register is available on the <a href="/parks/pools/programs" target="_blank"><strong>Aquatics Programs webpage</strong></a>.</p>
<p>Additionally, registration for swim lessons will begin at noon on Thursday, April 25, 2024. Thanks to a $10,000 donation from the Arizona Diamondbacks, a select number of swim lessons will be provided at a discounted rate. <a href="/parks/pools/programs" target="_blank"><strong>Register online for swim lessons</strong></a>.</p>
<h3>
Kool Kids Pool Locations<br></h3><p>
The Kool Kids program is the result of a partnership between the Parks and Recreation Department and the Milwaukee Brewers to provide free swim admission for kids 17 and under at 15 pools throughout the City of Phoenix. This year the Milwaukee Brewer's donated $60,683 and
Salt River Project (SRP) donated $10,000
to the program.
</p>
<p>Kool Kids pools are as follows: <strong>Cielito, Coronado, David C. Uribe, Deer Valley, Encanto, El Prado, Falcon, Harmon, Madison, Maryvale, Perry, Roosevelt, Starlight, Sunnyslope, Washington.</strong></p>
<p>The Parks and Recreation Department offers the Jr. Lifeguard and Lifeguard Academy programs for kids who may be interested in becoming future lifeguards. </p>
<h3>
Junior Lifeguard Academy</h3><p>Junior Lifeguard Academy is a free program that teaches more than lifeguarding techniques, first aid and CPR/AED training. This five-week program also teaches, leadership, responsibility, and teamwork to youths 13 to 17 years old. At the end of the program, participants will demonstrate what they have learned at the All-City Skills Showcase on Saturday, July
20.
</p>
<h3>
Water Exercise Classes<br></h3><p>This summer we welcome back water exercise classes, Aqua Fit! Classes will be offered at select locations. Find a class time online at phoenix.gov/pools.</p>
<h3>
Swim Team Returns!<br></h3><p>
Swim team is being reinstated at six locations. It is a five-week program designed to enhance and improve swimming strokes for children ages 7 to 17 years old. Children will practice and compete by age groups in recreational meets with other City of Phoenix swim teams.</p><p>Swim Team pools are as follows: El Prado, Encanto, Madison, Paradise Valley, Sunnyslope, Washington pools.<br></p><h3>Pool Locations</h3>
<ul>
<li><p>Cielito Pool, 4551 N. 35th Ave</p></li>
<li><p>Coronado Pool, 1717 N. 12th Street</p></li>
<li><p>Cortez Pool, 3434 W Dunlap Ave</p></li>
<li><p>David C. Uribe Pool, 3801 W Cactus Rd</p></li>
<li><p>Deer Valley Pool, 19400 N. 19th Ave</p></li>
<li><p>El Prado Pool, 6428 S. 19th Ave</p></li>
<li><p>Encanto Pool, 2125 N. 15th Ave</p></li>
<li><p>Falcon Pool, 3420 W. Roosevelt St</p></li>
<li><p>Harmon Pool, 1425 S. 5th Ave</p></li>
<li><p>Madison Pool, 1440 E. Glenrosa</p></li>
<li><p>Maryvale Pool, 4444 N. 51st Ave</p></li>
<li><p>Paradise Valley Pool, 17648 N. 40th Street</p></li>
<li><p>Pecos Pool, 17010 S. 48th Street</p></li>
<li><p>Perry Pool, 3131 E. Windsor Ave.</p></li>
<li><p>Roosevelt Pool, 6246 S. 7th Street</p></li>
<li><p>Starlight Pool, 7810 W. Osborn Road</p></li>
<li><p>Sunnyslope Pool, 301 Dunlap Road</p></li>
<li><p>Washington Pool, 6655 N. 23rd Ave.<br></p></li>
</ul>
<p>Find more information about specific pool and office hours, call 602-534-6587 or email <a href="mailto:aquatics.pks@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">aquatics.pks@phoenix.gov</a>.<br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| Brand-New 'Harvest Park' Opens in Laveen | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3057 | Parks and Recreation | | 3/28/2024 10:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3057/Harvest-Park.png | | Brand-New 'Harvest Park' Opens in Laveen | <div class="ExternalClassE33B14731BE34BF7A380E644066DD321"><html>
<p>The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department celebrated the grand opening of Harvest Park, the first of three brand-new parks and recreational spaces planned for the Laveen area by 2025. This expansive park, spanning over 10 acres of lush greenery, promises to be a cornerstone of community strength and vitality for generations to come.<br></p>
<p>Harvest Park, located at 5400 W. Gwen St., offers a myriad of amenities tailored to the diverse interests of its residents. From a vibrant playground to two pickleball courts, a basketball court, and a unique Bank Shot™ Court, calming area, amphitheater and more, the park caters to the recreational needs of individuals of all ages and backgrounds.</p>
<p>At the heart of Harvest Park lies a poignant tribute to the rich agricultural heritage of South Phoenix. Engraved within the walking path are the five Cs of Arizona: Copper, Cotton, Cattle, Climate, and Citrus. This symbolic gesture honors the hardworking farmers and families who shaped the identity of southwest Phoenix, paying homage to their enduring legacy.</p>
<p>“I am so excited about the opening of Harvest Park – our city's 187<sup>th</sup> park," Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said. “As our community continues to grow, we're dedicating resources across the city to preserve our outdoor areas and ensure families have wonderful gathering places for decades to come."<br></p>
<p>""We are thrilled to unveil Harvest Park," Parks and Recreation Director Cynthia Aguilar said. "This park represents our continuing investment to the Laveen community and our department's dedication to providing accessible and inclusive recreational spaces.</p>
<p>The realization of Harvest Park was made possible through a $4 million investment funded by impact fees, ensuring that the community's resources were directly invested in the creation of a space that will leave a lasting impact to the surrounding community. <br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| Phoenix Parks and Recreation Launches Ranger-led Hiking Group ‘Hike Right PHX’ | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/3017 | Parks and Recreation | | 2/8/2024 10:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3017/Phoenix-Group-Hike.png | | Phoenix Parks and Recreation Launches Ranger-led Hiking Group ‘Hike Right PHX’ | <div class="ExternalClass54CBE0A33A2E4FDB8D8F8F332180075A"><html>
<p></p><p>The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation department is excited to announce the launch of a new monthly hiking group, Hike Right PHX. This group is aimed at promoting safe hiking practices for people of all experience levels and will be led by Phoenix Park Rangers.<br></p><p>Hiking is incredibly popular in Phoenix, with its beautiful desert landscapes and scenic trails. However, with this increase in popularity comes a need for education on how to hike safely and create a community atmosphere for hikers of all abilities. </p><p>"We are thrilled to launch Hike Right PHX as a way to promote safe hiking practices to both new and regular hikers in our community," Parks and Recreation Director Cynthia Aguilar said. “Our Park Rangers are experts in trail safety and provide a community atmosphere for hikers of all abilities."</p><p>Hike Right PHX will offer monthly hikes on the second Saturday of each month. The first hike will take place on Saturday, March 9 at 8 a.m. at North Mountain Visitor Center, 12950 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85022.</p><p>Registration is recommended for Hike Right PHX and can be completed online through the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation. <a target="_blank" href="https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/phoenix/activity/search/detail/49818?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true">Follow this link to register</a><a target="_blank" href="https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/phoenix/activity/search/detail/49818?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true"> for the first hike! </a><br></p><p>Below is the 2024-25 Hike Right PHX Schedule:<br></p><div><ul><li><strong>March 9</strong>, 8 a.m., Trail 44/Tower Rd., North Mountain Visitor Center, 12950 N 7th St. </li><li><strong>April 13</strong>, 8 a.m., National/ Dirt Road Trail, Pima Canyon Trailhead, 4500 E Pima Canyon Rd. </li><li><strong>May 11</strong>, 8 a.m., LV Yates Trail, 40th Street Trailhead, 1600 E Sonoran Desert Dr. </li><li><strong>June 8</strong>, 7 a.m., Sidewinder - Apache Vista Summit, Apache Wash Trailhead, 1600 E Sonoran Desert Dr.</li><li><strong>July 13,</strong> 6 a.m., Water Tower, Palisades -Circumference Loop, Deem Hills East Trailhead, 27442 N. 39th Ave </li><li><strong>August 10</strong>, 6 a.m., Alta Trail/Bajada Trail, San Juan Bike Hub, 10919 S Central Ave. </li><li><strong>September 14</strong>, 7 a.m., Piestewa Peak Quartz Ridge Trail, 32nd Street Trailhead, 6511 E Sierra Vista Dr. </li><li><strong>October 12</strong>, 8 a.m., Hawk’s Nest, Valle Vista - Desert Tortoise Loop, Desert Vista Trailhead, 1900 W Desert Vista Tr. </li><li><strong>November 9</strong>, 9 a.m., Beverly Canyon Trail, Beverly Canyon Trailhead, 8800 S. 46th St. </li><li><strong>December 14</strong>, 9 a.m., Papago 5k Fitness Trail, Papago Park, 626 N Galvin Pkwy.</li><li><strong>January 11</strong>, 9 a.m., Dreamy Draw Nature Trail, Dreamy Draw Recreation Area, 2421 E Northern Ave.<br></li></ul></div>
</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/2955 | Parks and Recreation | | 12/22/2023 4:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2955/Lifeguard-at-Roosevelt-Pool.png | | City of Phoenix Offers Up to $3,000 in Incentive Pay to Certified Aquatics Staff | <div class="ExternalClass3F7E1CB1B54B4BFE99FBF09BA4404344"><html>
<p>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 <strong>pool managers, assistant managers and hundreds of lifeguards</strong> ahead of the 2024 pool season to safely open as many of the City's 29 public pools as possible.<br>Eligible certified managers will receive a total $3,000 in incentive pay, while eligible certified assistant managers and lifeguards will receive a total of $2,000. Those staff will receive $500 on the first paycheck, and the remaining incentive as a one-time payment at the end of the 2024 pool season. </p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>Lifeguard interviews will be held Saturday, March 16, 2024. </p>
<p>Returning for the second year, the department is offering a new 'Shallow Water Lifeguard' position. Shallow-water lifeguards will guard four feet of water and under. </p>
<p>“Though it's colder now, we're already gearing up for the opening of the City's pools next summer – and that means getting a head start on hiring lifeguards," said Mayor Gallego. “Having qualified and enthusiastic lifeguards on duty at our pools is critical to a successful and safe summer season for our residents. Please consider joining Team Phoenix!" </p>
<p>“Providing a safe, accessible and affordable community pool to our residents during the summer is a top priority," said Councilwoman Betty Guardado. “This increase in pay is an investment in the future of Phoenix and its citizens." </p>
<p>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.<strong> </strong><strong>The increased hourly rates per position, are listed below:</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type:disc;">
<li>Pool Managers: $23.74/hour or $26.18/hour </li>
<li>Assistant Pool Managers: $21.54/hour</li>
<li>Swim Lesson Instructor: $19.54/hour</li>
<li>Lifeguards: $17.72/hour</li>
<li>Shallow Water Lifeguard: $16.88/hour</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.phoenix.gov/lifeguard" target="_blank">Get certified now</a> so you are ready to interview <strong>March 16, 2024</strong>! 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.</p>
<p>Benefits of being a certified lifeguard:</p>
<ol style="list-style-type:decimal;">
<li>$2,000 incentive pay</li>
<li>$17.72 an hour base pay</li>
<li>Learn lifesaving skills</li>
<li>Work in your neighborhood</li>
<li>Keep your community safe and be a role model for kids</li>
<li>Looks great on a college application or resume, demonstrates teamwork, responsibility, and leadership skills</li>
<li>Meet other dedicated people</li>
<li>Flexible summer shifts, ideal for students</li>
<li>Have fun!</li>
</ol>
<p>
<a target="_blank" href="/parks/pools">
<strong>StarGuard Training </strong>
</a> 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. <br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| Need to Know: 36th Annual APS Electric Light Parade | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2920 | Parks and Recreation | | 11/13/2023 7:30:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2920/ELP-newsroom.png | | Need to Know: 36th Annual APS Electric Light Parade | <div class="ExternalClass9A4595C742BB45A28307BBCBE1CD017F"><html>
<p>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 “It's Electric!" and are sure to light up the streets of central Phoenix on Saturday, Dec. 2, with their visually stunning displays!<br></p><p>The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1i-DBP7605LHx4_Z5j42aO7q38jdTqLUT&ll=33.50742408820838%2c-112.07002815000001&z=14">2.3 mi. parade route </a>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. The first parade entries will begin at 7 p.m. 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.<br></p><p><strong>Helpful tips for those planning to attend this year's parade:</strong></p><ul dir="" class="" style=""><li>Consider taking <a target="_blank" href="http://www.valleymetro.org/">Valley Metro Light Rail</a> to the event to avoid traffic congestion. The parade route runs near the Light Rail stop at Central Ave., just south of Camelback Rd.</li><li>The parade is a rain or shine event. Check the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.abc15.com/weather">weather forecast</a> and dress accordingly.</li><li>Spectators are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs for seating.<br></li><li>The Electric Light Parade is a rain or shine event. <br></li><li>Crowds for this event have grown large in recent years and viewing spots along the parade route are first-come, first-served. Spectators often start arriving hours prior to parade time to reserve a spot.</li><li>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.</li><li>Spectators should try to minimize and gather any trash and litter generated during the parade to ease post-event cleanup.</li><li>Coolers are permitted, but alcohol and glass containers are prohibited.</li><li>Road closures and restrictions affect all parade areas hours before the event; come early and expect delays.</li><li>Check out the parade route at <a target="_blank" href="/parks/elp">Phoenix Parks and Recreation - APS Electric Light Parade</a>.</li></ul><p> <strong>Parade Broadcast Schedule:</strong></p><ul dir="" class="" style=""><li>Facebook Live: ABC15 will air the parade on Facebook Live on Dec. 2.<br></li><li>ABC15 will broadcast the parade </li><ul><li>December 10, 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.<br></li><li>December 25, 6 a.m. - 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.<br></li><li>December 25, on The CW from 12 - 1 p.m.<br></li><li>(All times are subject to change) <br></li></ul><li>PHXTV will air the parade throughout the month of December.</li><li>The parade will be available for view on the <a target="_blank" href="/parks/elp">APS Electric Light Parade website</a>.<br></li></ul>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| Miss America 2023 Announced as APS Electric Light Parade Grand Marshal | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2888 | Parks and Recreation | | 10/12/2023 6:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2888/Miss-America-Grand-Marshal.png | | Miss America 2023 Announced as APS Electric Light Parade Grand Marshal | <div class="ExternalClass0AEE75830B83428B82ADEFAD80C10A06"><html>
<p>The City of Phoenix and Arizona Public Service (APS) are excited to announce Miss America 2023 Grace Stanke as Grand Marshal for the 36th Annual APS Electric Light Parade.<br></p>
<p>Grace Stanke is the third Miss Wisconsin contestant to earn the title of Miss America. Grace is spending her year traveling the country inspiring women and advocating for STEM careers while pursuing her degree in nuclear engineering. Her goal is to dispel myths about nuclear energy, while encouraging women everywhere to chase their goals. In April of 2023, Grace toured the Palo Verde Generating Station, operated by APS, and located about 45 miles west of downtown Phoenix (see pictures below). Palo Verde is the country's largest power producer in the United States and all of it is 100% clean and carbon-free. </p>
<p>The 36th Annual APS Electric Light Parade takes place Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 7 p.m., which just so happens to be World Nuclear Energy Day and is the perfect tie to this year's parade theme is “It's Electric!"</p>
<p>“It is an honor to have Miss America 2023 Grace Stanke join us for this year's APS Electric Light Parade," said Mayor Kate Gallego. “Grace is a tremendous role model for young people and is a great example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success. We are so proud to have her join us in celebrating this year's parade."</p>
<p>“We are thrilled to have Grace Stanke as our Grand Marshal. She is an inspiration to people around the world and we are honored to have her join us in Phoenix for our annual community tradition," said Phoenix Parks and Recreation Director Cynthia Aguilar. </p>
<p>“As both an electricity worker and a parade lover, I am so thrilled to be the grand marshal at the APS Electric Light Parade," Miss America 2023 Grace Stanke said. “Here's to powering our lives!"</p>
<p>The 2.3-mile parade route starts at Central Avenue and Montebello Avenue, travels south to Camelback Road, then heads east along Camelback Road to 7th Street, and continues south along 7th Street to its conclusion at Indian School Road. The first parade entries begin at 7 p.m. and take approximately 60 minutes to complete the route. It is strongly recommended that attendees arrive several hours in advance of the start of the parade.<br><strong>Helpful tips for those planning to attend this year's parade:</strong></p>
<p>· Consider taking <a href="https://action.phoenix.gov/c1.pl?d48cb236bc342f390f644f3905f2cfc8ec182c0cf950df8c7fb5e65aedd88ae9" target="_blank">Valley Metro Light Rail </a>to the event to avoid traffic congestion. The parade route runs near the Light Rail stop at Central Avenue, just south of Camelback Road.</p>
<p>· The parade is a rain or shine event. Check the <a href="https://action.phoenix.gov/c1.pl?e04f25eadb060fc6095cacc835c190966441a862bba8974836ada5ea2a3be4c4" target="_blank">weather forecast</a> and dress accordingly.</p>
<p>· Spectators are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs for seating.</p>
<p>· Crowds for this event have grown in recent years and viewing spots along the parade route are first-come, first-served. Spectators often start arriving hours prior to parade time to reserve a spot.</p>
<p>· Public on-street parking is available outside of the parade route on a first-come, first-served basis. Private lots near the parade route often offer parking for a fee.</p>
<p>· Spectators should minimize and gather any trash and litter generated during the parade to ease post-event cleanup.</p>
<p>· Coolers are permitted, but alcohol and glass containers are prohibited.</p>
<p>· Road closures and restrictions affect surrounding areas hours before the event; come early and expect delays.</p>
<p>· Check out the parade route at Phoenix Parks and Recreation - APS Electric Light Parade <br></p>
<p>
<br>
</p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| Dreamy Draw Recreation Area Now Open | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2857 | Parks and Recreation | | 9/8/2023 5:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2857/Dreamy-Draw-New-Restroom.jpg | | Dreamy Draw Recreation Area Now Open | <div class="ExternalClass6DBFC5EE3DDB4DA1B31A0D0907630E15"><html>
<p>Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is open to the public with new-look ramadas and an improved resident experience! </p>
<p>The Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is a hub for hikers, bikers, families and more. Phoenix Parks and Recreation has finished improvements to the park, that coincided with the City's Drought Pipeline Project. </p>
<p>Improvements to the site include expanded parking area, including six ADA accessible parking spaces, three small family-friendly ramadas, and a new, six stall gender-neutral restroom. Four designated pull-through equestrian trailer parking spaces are being added for easy access, and a bike lane redesign which includes an adjacent natural surface walking path. There will be ADA accessible routes from the parking lot to the ramadas, restroom and to the Dreamy Draw Bike Path.</p>
<p>
<strong>“We are dedicated to providing our community with access to quality recreational opportunities," District 3 Councilwoman Debra Stark said. “The Dreamy Draw Recreation Area has been a cherished part of our community for many years, and we look forward to seeing it reach its full potential with these exciting improvements."</strong>
</p>
<p>Parks and Recreation Director Aguilar shared her enthusiasm for the project: “The Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is an important part of our local landscape, offering residents a place to get outdoors and enjoy nature. We are thrilled to be able to offer more amenities for visitors in this beloved recreation area."</p>
<p>Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is located at 2421 E Northern Avenue and is open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. (extended hours apply during summer months). </p>
<p>Renovations to Dreamy Draw happened alongside the City's Drought Pipeline Project, which updated and replaced existing infrastructure and install new infrastructure needed to serve all customers, no matter where they live or work in the city's service territory. Learn more about the Drought Pipeline project online at <a href="/waterservices/dpp/purpose" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/waterservices/dpp/purpose</a>. <br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks | News | parks-and-recreation | Parks & Rec | | |
| Phoenix Trail Closure Program Expanded by Parks Board | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2852 | Parks and Recreation | | 9/1/2023 1:00:00 AM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2852/Camelback-Mountain.jpg | | Phoenix Trail Closure Program Expanded by Parks Board | <div class="ExternalClass2F364BF028364580AE8DF308641A0DDC"><html>
<p>The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board voted Thursday evening to expand the City’s heat safety trail program that closes popular trails during the hottest days of the year. <br></p><p>The program will now be in effect all year long (previously May through October). Access will be restricted to Echo Canyon and Cholla Trails at Camelback Mountain and all trails associated with Piestewa Peak from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on days when the National Weather Service issues an Excessive Heat Warning. <br></p><p>The approved changes are effective immediately.<br></p><p>During times when trail access will be restricted, parking lot gates will be closed, and signage will be posted. Phoenix Park Rangers will be visible at those locations to remind and educate trail users about the restrictions. Closure information also will be communicated through the <a href="/parks" target="_blank">Parks and Recreation Department’s website</a> and social media accounts, and to local resorts and hotels. <br></p><p>"Ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of our hikers and first responders while accessing our trails is our top priority," said Kelly Dalton, Chair of the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board. "The action we took tonight is another important step in protecting individuals from the devasting effects that can result from hiking in extreme heat."<br></p><p>“The central focus of Phoenix Fire is the safety and wellbeing of the customers we service,” Captain Rob McDade added. “It has become clear some hikers need rescuing even when they start their hike before 11 a.m. As a result, we believe the extended closure of trails will better protect everyone involved.”<br></p><p>During the Valley's warm weather months, and regardless of an Excessive Heat Watch being in effect, it is recommended that trail users hike during the early morning or evening hours when it is cooler and there is more shade.<br></p><p>Residents can <a href="/parks/trails/take-a-hike-do-it-right" target="_blank">sign up to receive email alerts</a> when trails are closed due to excessive heat. </p><p>The Phoenix Parks and Recreation, and Fire departments have worked in partnership since 2015 to share the “Take a Hike. Do it Right." hiking safety message and continue to lead with education about responsible hiking. All trail users should follow these important and potentially life-saving hiking guidelines:<br></p><div><ul><li><p>Watch the Weather: Yes, "it's a dry heat" – but Arizona's temperature can be deceiving and deadly. Hike when it's cool outside, try early mornings and evenings when there's more shade.</p></li><li><p>Dress Appropriately: Wear proper shoes, clothing, hat and sunscreen.</p></li><li><p>Bring Water: Hydrate before you go. Have plenty of water, more than you think you need. Turn around and head back to the trailhead before you drink half of your water.</p></li><li><p>Keep in Contact: Carry a mobile phone.</p></li><li><p>Team Up: Hike with others. If hiking solo, tell someone your start and end times, and location.</p></li><li><p>Be Honest: Do you have a medical condition? Asthma, heart problems, diabetes, knee or back problems? Don't push yourself! (Even trained athletes have been caught off guard by getting dehydrated on Arizona trails.)</p></li><li><p>Don't Trailblaze: Enjoy the Sonoran Desert's beautiful and undeveloped landscape, but please stay on designated trails.</p></li><li><p>Take Responsibility: Don't be "that person" – the one who wasn't prepared, shouldn't have been there for health reasons or ignored safety guidelines. Be the responsible hiker, who takes a hike and does it right!<br></p></li></ul></div><p>For the safety of pets, dogs are prohibited on any City of Phoenix trail when the temperature is 100 degrees or warmer. The Arizona Humane Society advises that temperatures in the 90s are also unsafe for pets to be outdoors. <a href="https://www.azhumane.org/pet-safety-tips/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw9MCnBhCYARIsAB1WQVWIzI3UuS_DWyHekHfNx318dJdpC-saMWQL9EVjDHl6poz8kyNjtVUaAjBjEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Learn how to keep pets safe during Arizona's warm weather months. </a><br></p>
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