Building Our Future Together
With Project Blue no longer moving forward inside the city, and its future still uncertain, we have a chance to step back and shape a shared vision for our community. This is especially true in Ward 4 and the areas just outside our city limits where much of the land is zoned for development.
Project Blue brought a lot to the surface. It revealed challenges, gaps, and areas that need improvement. We also recognize that Tucson’s economy has not kept pace with the rest of Arizona. From 2001 to 2023, the state grew about 30% while Tucson grew only 20%. This makes clear the need to grow our economy more intentionally and in ways that truly benefit residents.
Many of us want stronger job creation and real opportunities for ourselves and our children, with stable jobs for everyone, from those with a GED to a PhD and everything in between. We also want projects that protect our shared resources, safeguard our air quality, and avoid placing heavy strains on our water and energy. These are the priorities that should guide us as we say yes to proposals that reflect our values and proactively pursue the industries we want to attract.
As a region, we should build on our strengths such as our people, our institutions, our location, and the industries already here, while also looking ahead to where opportunities are moving, much like skating to where the hockey puck is going rather than where it is now.
Artificial intelligence and new technologies are rapidly reshaping the job market, while nationally there is momentum to bring more manufacturing back to the United States. Apple’s decision to produce iPhone and Apple Watch glass in Kentucky is one example of this shift. Tucson can lean into this moment by targeting industries that are sustainable and offer good jobs. At the same time, we must support local entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized businesses, and provide opportunities for people at all skill and education levels.
In the months ahead, you will see opportunities to take part in this important conversation. In the meantime, as you reflect on Project Blue and think about what comes next, I want to hear from you. Your ideas will help guide how we move forward together. Please share your thoughts at ward4@tucsonaz.gov.
Investing in Water Reliability
Tucson Water is moving forward with the South Houghton Road Transmission Main from I-10 to the Old Vail Reservoir site. This $13.4 million project will connect the Old Vail Reservoir and Booster Station to our central water system, reducing Corona de Tucson’s reliance on groundwater wells and providing a reliable, renewable water supply. Construction is expected to begin this year and be complete by December 2026. Most work will occur outside travel lanes, with only minor traffic impacts, and no water service interruptions are expected.
This exciting project will strengthen long-term water reliability for families in our region, and I will share more updates as it progresses.
As always, if you have any 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
