Project Features
The project consists of a 16-foot-wide paved multi-use pedestrian/bicycle pathway constructed at ground level to minimize impacts to the floodplain. The pathway has been constructed to weave between the existing trees, giving the pathways a more natural feel and to minimize the number of trees needed to be removed. Low-flow culverts at drainage crossings minimize impediments to flows during minor events.
Pedestrian underpass ramps have been constructed under the new La Cholla Bridge that was constructed in 2014, and a retrofitted underpass was built under the existing La Cañada Bridge in August 2015. An at-grade pedestrian/bicycle and equestrian crossing at Overton Road was completed in May 2016, east of where it dips into the CDO floodplain.
An equestrian staging area was constructed north of Overton Road utilizing the old Pima County Department of Transportation materials and dirt storage yard. Gravel parking and staging areas were provided for off of Rancho Feliz next to the La Canada intersection, and off of the south side of the new La Cholla Road Bridge.
Motor vehicle access to the river park corridor is restricted to authorized vehicles, except in the staging areas. Restricting off-road vehicles will allow this heavily used floodplain area to heal and return back to a rich riparian bosque and natural desert floodplain.
Project Costs and Funding
The Pima County Flood Control District tax levy, which is a secondary property tax, will be the primary source of funding for this project. Additional funding was provided by the Regional Transportation Authority for the HAWK crossing on Overton Road. Below is a table of anticipated costs:
|
|
| Design and Surveying |
$ 401,000 |
| Right-of-way Acquisitions |
$ 1,095,000 |
| River Park Pathway Construction |
$ 766,707 |
| PROJECT TOTAL |
$ 2,262,707 |
Project Benefits
This 1.6 mile section of the CDO River Park is an important connection in a long continuous shared-use pathway for recreation, exercise, and an alternative transportation mode between the towns of Marana and Oro Valley. Equestrian users now have a gathering place to meet and ride towards Catalina State Park where none previously existed. Fencing will keep off road vehicles from entering this expansive floodplain area reducing destruction to native plants, compaction of the soils and illegal disposal of trash and debris.
Preservation of this floodplain will provide a location for floodwater to spread out, passing through the CDO riverine system more slowly and minimize flood damage. Urbanization of our natural watersheds has resulted in increases to peak discharges. Preservation of the floodplain will help maintain lower peak discharges and minimize increases in flood water elevations downstream. Detaining flood flow helps to recharge our natural aquifer and provide valuable moisture to native riparian vegetation.
Project Schedule
The latest project schedule is as follows (updated 7/8/2016):
|
|
|
|
| Concept Report |
10/23/12 |
6/30/13 |
Developed by Schlesinger Consulting Engineering, Tucson AZ |
| Design |
7/1/13 |
September 2014 |
Estimated 15 months to design. |
| Right-of-way Acquisitions |
12/6/12 |
September 2014 |
Pima County Real Property is negotiating with the remaining property owner. |
| Construction |
FY 2016/2017 |
May 2016 |
The Flood Control District Job Order Contractor has completed the project improvements. |
Maps
The following maps are available:
Meetings and Events
(Updated 7/8/2016)
The following information about meetings and events is currently available:
- Mailer for 1st Public Meeting (To go over recommended concept): September 25, 2013, 6:00 p.m. at Grace Community Church, 9755 N. La Cholla Blvd.
- 2nd Public meeting (Review Design, going to construction): December 2013