I hope everyone is having a great start to the summer season. I wanted to take this opportunity to share a few updates on important projects and infrastructure improvements happening across our corner of Tucson. From park upgrades and new recreational amenities to major roadway improvements, there is a lot in progress that will continue improving quality of life for residents in Ward 4 and the surrounding area.
Purple Heart Park
Last month, two brand new playgrounds were installed at Purple Heart Park after the previous playground equipment failed a safety inspection. These new playgrounds were funded through the Ward 4 Council Office budget. Thank you to all of the community members who participated in the survey process and helped select the playground designs.
Over the next three years, residents can also expect to see several voter-approved improvements at the park, including:
– New basketball court
– Parking lot renovations and expansion
– Renovated walking paths
– New ramada
– Skate park and fencing improvements
– Pool plaster, tile, and deck renovations
To learn more, visit: https://www.tucsonaz.gov/files/sharedassets/public/v/2/living-and-working/parks-and-recreation/documents/capital-planning/407-project-pdfs/purpleheartpark.pdf
Robert A. Price Sr. Park
A new train and plane-themed park is moving forward at 7001 S. Wilmot Rd. Utility construction is expected to begin this summer, with park amenities following afterward.
This future community park will include:
– Little League and softball fields with lighting
– Multi-use sports fields for soccer, football, and lacrosse
– Age-specific playgrounds with shade canopies
– Splash pad with shade
– Ramadas and shaded seating areas
– Restroom facilities
This project will bring significant recreational opportunities to the southeast side and help meet the needs of our growing community.
More information is available at:
https://www.tucsonaz.gov/files/sharedassets/public/v/1/living-and-working/parks-and-recreation/documents/capital-planning/robert_price_park_siteplan_update-260217.pdf
Valencia Road: Kolb to Houghton
Construction on the Valencia Road improvement project is now approximately 70% complete, with anticipated completion later this summer.
Remaining work includes:
– Final paving
– Landscaping
– Street lighting and signals
– Public art installation
– Roadway signage and pavement markings
This project will improve traffic flow, roadway safety, and connectivity for residents and commuters in the area.
Project updates can be found at:
https://dtmprojects.tucsonaz.gov/pages/valencia-road-kolb-to-houghton
Houghton Road: 22nd Street to Irvington
Utility companies are currently finalizing relocation work along the corridor, with roadway construction anticipated to begin in late summer.
Key improvements planned for this project include:
– Widening Houghton Road to six lanes with a raised median
– Bridge widening and reconstruction near Pantano Wash
– Additional turn lanes at major intersections
– A new pedestrian crossing signal at Secrist Middle School
– Upgraded traffic signals along the corridor
These upgrades are designed to improve safety, traffic operations, and long-term mobility as our community continues to grow.
Additional project information is available at: https://www.houghtonroad.info/section-7
As always, if you have any feedback or questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at the Ward 4 Council Office at ward4@tucsonaz.gov and/or 520-791-3199.
– Nikki
City of Tucson Ward 4 Councilwoman
Nikki Lee
520-791-3199
Ward4@tucsonaz.gov
www.tucsonaz.gov/ward4
Facebook: /CouncilwomanLee
Instagram: @nikkilee_az
Twitter: @CouncilwomanLee
or: www.facebook.com/cotward4
