Ward 4 Projects Moving Forward
Several major transportation, park, and planning projects are moving forward in Ward 4.
Valencia Road Nearing Completion
The Valencia Road improvement project between Kolb and Houghton is nearing completion. The roadway is being widened to six travel lanes and will include landscaped medians, buffered bicycle lanes, sidewalks, transit improvements, upgraded traffic signals, and improved drainage.
We are also looking forward to celebrating this milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and hope you join us. (Insert attached Save the Date)
As additional lanes have opened, we have already observed drivers traveling at concerning speeds. The added capacity should improve how people move through the corridor, but it does not turn Valencia Road into a racetrack. Please slow down, remain alert, and watch for construction workers, cyclists, pedestrians, and other drivers so everyone can reach their destination safely.
RTA Next Is Underway
In August, we joined the Regional Transportation Authority and City of Tucson to celebrate the launch of the new 20-year RTA Next plan and the start of its first project.
Crews are already well underway rebuilding and repaving Irvington Road between Houghton and Kolb. This was the first pavement rehabilitation project launched under RTA Next and is rebuilding a roadway that has needed more than temporary repairs for many years.
There is also more investment coming to southeast Tucson. RTA Next includes widening Mary Ann Cleveland Way from Houghton Road to Colossal Cave Road to four lanes, with turn lanes, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, intersection improvements, and drainage improvements. Construction is scheduled within the second and third periods of the 20-year plan.
These projects show that the plan approved by voters is no longer just something on paper. Work has begun, and major improvements for Ward 4 are part of the region’s long-term transportation future.
Planning the Future of the Southlands
On Sep 9, 2026, the Mayor and Council voted to begin a comprehensive planning and public engagement process for approximately 50 square miles in the Southlands. This area includes portions of Wards 4 and 5, represents nearly 20 percent of Tucson’s land area, and remains largely undeveloped.
The decisions made about this area will influence Tucson for decades. The process will consider land use, housing, transportation, infrastructure, water, economic development, environmental protection, and public services.
Most importantly, it will include extensive community engagement over approximately the next 18 to 24 months. Planning the future of such a significant area should not happen behind closed doors. Residents, businesses, property owners, and community partners must have meaningful opportunities to help shape the plan.
We will continue communicating opportunities for residents to learn more, provide input, and help shape the future of the Southlands.
As always, if you have questions, concerns, or need assistance with a City of Tucson issue, please contact the Ward 4 team at ward4@tucsonaz.gov. We are here to help.
– 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
