Happy 2025 Pima County,

Welcome to the inaugural edition of our Parks and Recreation (PR) newsletter!   We are excited to embark on this journey with you, sharing updates, stories and events that make our County a vibrant and connected place to live.

Our PR facilities and programs are the heart of our community, providing a haven for relaxation, play and connection. In this newsletter, you will find information about upcoming events, new programs, and exciting projects that aim to enhance the beauty and accessibility of our parks. Our goal is to keep you informed, engaged and proud of the wonderful community we all call home.

Our Parks and Recreation newsletter needs a name, and we would like your input! This is your chance to be creative and leave your mark on something special. We're looking for a name that truly represents the heart and spirit of Pima County Parks and Recreation. Whether it's fun, catchy, or simply reflective of who we are, we want to hear your ideas! Please submit your suggestions by March 1, 2025 to Anissa Ramirez at anissa.ramirez2@pima.gov, and join us in making this newsletter uniquely ours. Let's come together and create something amazing!

Last year, the Parks team, in partnership with Project Design and Construction, finalized two major projects which added LED lights to three fields at Ann Day Community Park, one field at Brandi Fenton Memorial Park and one field at Rillito Regional Park. The Department completed the construction of Coach Juan F. Tadeo Fields #5 and #6, dog park, restroom and parking lot at Winston Reynolds-Manzanita Park. Additionally, three playgrounds were replaced with new play structures at Picture Rocks Park, Ebonee Marie Moody Park and Sunset Pointe Park.

The Recreation team implemented two new family-friendly initiatives. The first was “Movies in the Park” as well as offered private pool rentals for family events and gatherings outside of normal business hours.  Additionally, the Southeast Regional Park Shooting Range added a new Action (AXN) Range which allows for a dynamic, challenging environment for shooting sport enthusiasts to sharpen their defensive carry and tactical maneuvering skills.

Parks and Recreation is conducting a Master Plan that will serve as a strategic roadmap guiding the future of urban parks, recreational facilities and programs for the next 10-25 years. This resident-driven approach requires feedback from the community to ensure the right amenities are being built in the right place based on community needs and desires. Provide your feedback using the online survey, and consider attending one of the community meetings in your area. Your input will help enrich the quality of parks and recreation experience in Pima County!

The department recognizes Parks and Recreation staff on a quarterly basis who not only exemplify the Pima County Core Values of Accountable, Respectful and Ethical, but also demonstrate “exceptional performance” that exceeds their normal day-to-day job-related duties. Congratulations to Jonathan “Jack” Haney, the Parks and Recreation Employee of the Quarter for October through December 2024.  

READ MORE

Did you know that Parks and Recreation operates and manages six shooting ranges? Offering a safe and welcoming environment for recreational rifle and pistol shooting, trap and skeet shooting and archery, these facilities are a perfect spot for shooting sport enthusiasts of all ages to learn gun safety and fundamentals or sharpen skills by getting some reps in. Check out the various firearm classes and training offered by Parks and Recreation.

Unlock your potential with Next Level, a dynamic recreation program designed specifically for middle school age kids ready to elevate their skills, creativity and social connections. Whether your teen’s New Years resolution is to stay active, explore new hobbies or spend more time with friends in a fun in safe environment, Next Level offers something for everyone. This program is offered at Catalina, Drexel Heights, Ellie Towne Flowing Wells, Littletown and Robles Ranch Community Centers.

REGISTER NOW