From the Director's Desk
As we welcome the month of July, the Arizona summer is in full swing across Pima County, bringing warmer temperatures, sunny days, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy our community parks, pools, and recreation amenities. July is also recognized nationally as Parks and Recreation Month, a time to celebrate the important role parks and recreation professionals play in enhancing the quality of life for residents of all ages.
We are excited to share that all of our pools and splash pads are open and ready to help you and your family stay cool throughout the summer season. Our summer programs continue to offer a variety of activities, events and opportunities for learning, fitness and fun, making this one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year.
As temperatures continue to rise, we encourage everyone to practice heat safety by drinking plenty of water, staying hydrated and taking precautions when spending time outdoors.
This month, we also extend our sincere appreciation to the hardworking Parks and Recreation professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes and in the field every day. Their dedication, passion and commitment to serving our community ensure that our parks, facilities, programs and special events remain safe, welcoming and enjoyable for all. Thank you for everything you do to keep our community thriving.
Happy Parks and Recreation Month, and we look forward to seeing you in our parks, pools and recreation programs this summer!
Victor Pereira
Director, Pima County Parks and Recreation
 Back-to-School Youth Programs
As the new school year begins, Pima County Parks and Recreation is excited to offer engaging, affordable after-school opportunities for youth throughout the community. Whether your child is in elementary school or ready for the next stage of growth and independence, our programs provide a safe, welcoming environment where participants can learn, play, and connect with friends.
After-School Program (Ages 5–12)
Our popular After-School Program is designed for elementary-aged children and operates at several Pima County community centers from school dismissal until 6 p.m. (days and times vary by location). The program offers a variety of enriching activities that keep children active, engaged, and having fun after the school day ends.
Participants enjoy:
- Homework assistance and reading activities
- Group games and sports
- Arts and crafts
- Board and table games
- Special events and themed activities
The program serves youth ages 5 to 12, with 5-year-olds required to be enrolled in elementary school. Registration is required, and enrollment is limited. Families register for the full 10-month school-year session.
Program Fees
- $50 per month for the first child
- $40 per month for each additional child in the same family
Reduced Fees Available
Families participating in the National School Lunch Program (free or reduced lunch) or similar assistance programs may qualify for reduced rates:
- $15 per month for the first child
- $12 per month for each additional child in the same family
Register Online: After-School Program
Next Level: Teen Program
Middle school students can take their after-school experience to the Next Level! Designed specifically for youth who are ready to explore new interests, build confidence, and strengthen social connections, this exciting recreation program offers a variety of activities in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Participants will have opportunities to:
- Participate in sports and recreation activities
- Express creativity through arts and crafts
- Develop leadership and teamwork skills
- Connect with peers and make new friends
- Build confidence while creating lasting memories
The Next Level program provides a fun, structured space where middle school students can stay active and engaged beyond the school day.
Cost: $50 for the 5-month session.
Registration is now open for both programs. Space is limited, and enrollment is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register Online: Next Level Teen Program
Celebrating 20 Years of Community at Brandi Fenton Memorial Park
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, a beloved 63-acre community space created in memory of Brandi Fenton, who passed away in 2003. Through the vision and dedication of her father, Jon Fenton, and the support of the community, the park opened in 2006 and has since become one of Pima County’s most treasured parks.
From its award-winning design and popular splash pad to its memorial garden honoring loved ones and organ donors, the park continues to bring people together while celebrating Brandi’s legacy. As we commemorate two decades of memories, recreation, and community connection, we thank the Fenton family for their generosity and lasting impact on Pima County.
A special thank you goes to the Parks and Recreation staff whose hard work helped make the 20th Anniversary Celebration a success. From planning and event setup to operations, activities, and teardown, their dedication ensured a memorable event for the hundreds of community members who joined us in celebrating this milestone.
The Final Weeks of Pool Season Are Here
Summer may be winding down, but there are still opportunities to enjoy Pima County’s pools before the season ends. Pools will close for the season on Labor Day, September 7.
Join us for one final Sunday Funday event of the summer!
Celebrate the end of the season with a Ghost Ship Pool Party on Sunday, July 19, from 1:00–5:00 P.M. at Wade McLean Pool (12000 W Emigh Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743). Enjoy an afternoon filled with swimming and summer fun before the pool season comes to an end.
Then, celebrate the end of the swim season with Pupapoolooza, a free dog-only swim event where pups can take over the pool! Events will be held at:
Sessions are available for both small and large dogs. Registration is required. Guests are encouraged to bring sealed dog food or gently used blankets to support the Pima Animal Care Center (PACC).
Registration information and event details are available here.
Don’t miss your chance to make a final splash before the pools close for the season!
2026 Summer Aquatics Season Recap
From swim lessons and splash pads to lap swimming and community events, Pima County Parks and Recreation celebrated another successful aquatics season.
This summer featured something for everyone, from our popular Ghost Ship pool events and free recreational swimming at all County pools, to swim lessons for all ages and skill levels designed to build confidence and water safety. Youth also stayed active through our summer swim team programs, while future lifeguards gained hands-on experience through our Junior Lifeguard Program.
Across the county, residents enjoyed open swim opportunities, splash pads, and family-friendly pool time, along with special seasonal programming that brought the community together in and around the water.
We’re proud of our aquatics staff and lifeguards who worked hard all season to provide safe, welcoming, and fun experiences for thousands of swimmers. Their dedication made it possible for families to enjoy a refreshing and memorable summer at our pools and splash pads.
Thank you for making this another great aquatics season with Pima County Parks and Recreation, we look forward to seeing you back in the water next year!
Innovation Lab Now Open at Robles Ranch Community Center
 Pima County Parks & Recreation, in partnership with the Office of Digital Inclusion, is excited to announce the opening of the Innovation Lab at Robles Ranch Community Center.
This new space is designed to bring learning, creativity, and connection to our community through hands-on technology and digital access.
What You’ll Find in the Innovation Lab:
- Computer classes to build skills and confidence
- One-on-one Digital Navigator services for online support
- Technology for online meetings and collaboration
- 3D printing to bring ideas to life
- Podcasting station to share stories and voices
Empowering our community through technology
Whether you're learning new digital skills, exploring creative tools, or getting help navigating online resources, the Innovation Lab is here for you.
Robles Ranch Community Center
16150 W. Ajo Hwy, Tucson, AZ 85735
Canoa Dog Park Now Open in Green Valley
Canoa Dog Park, Pima County’s first dog park in Green Valley, is now open to the public.
Located at the southeast corner of Canoa Preserve Park (3500 S. Camino de la Canoa), the new park helps fill a long-standing gap for Green Valley residents, who previously had to travel to Sahuarita for the nearest dog park.
The park features water stations for dogs, picnic tables, shaded seating under existing native trees, agility elements, a drinking fountain, and an eight-space gravel parking lot.
“The opening of Canoa Dog Park reflects our commitment to creating welcoming spaces that bring people and pets together,” said Pima County Parks and Recreation Director Victor Pereira. “We’re excited to offer a safe, enjoyable place for the community to gather and connect.”
Canoa Dog Park is the 10th dog park maintained by Parks & Recreation and the first new park amenity completed since adoption of the Pima County Parks & Recreation Master Plan, which reflects a 20-year vision shaped by community feedback.
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Rediscovering Leisure Times
This month, we're looking back at the August 1987 edition of Leisure Times, an early Pima County Parks and Recreation newsletter. The issue featured fall recreation programs, an Adult Coed Slow-Pitch Softball League, and a spotlight on Winston Reynolds/Manzanita Park, then recognized as the department's "Park of the Month."
The newsletter also honored longtime Parks and Recreation Commissioner Ted Walker for his contributions to the development of Pima County's park system. Nearly 40 years later, the publication serves as a reminder of the department's long-standing commitment to parks, recreation, and community connection.
Park Spotlight: Wildwood Park
Wildwood Park
6201 N Parsley Rd Tucson, AZ 85741
Sunrise to 10 p.m.
Wildwood Park offers residents a welcoming space to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a place to exercise, spend time with family, or simply enjoy Tucson's beautiful scenery, Wildwood Park has something for everyone.
New ¾-Mile Walking Path Now Open!
A New Way to Enjoy Wildwood Park
Visitors can now experience Wildwood Park in a whole new way with the completion of a new three-quarter-mile walking path. The improved pathway provides a scenic and accessible route for walking, jogging, and enjoying the park’s natural surroundings.
Whether you’re starting a new fitness routine, taking a morning stroll, or spending time outdoors with family, the new walking path creates another opportunity for the community to enjoy this neighborhood park.
The completion of the new walking path is part of Pima County Parks & Recreation’s continued efforts to improve parks and create more opportunities for residents to stay active and connected. This new amenity provides an inviting space where community members can enjoy outdoor recreation close to home.
Park Amenities
Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities throughout the park, including:
- A new ¾-mile walking path
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Open green space
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Walking and recreational areas
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Picnic opportunities
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Family-friendly outdoor recreation
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Scenic views and natural surroundings
Wildwood Park continues to serve as a valuable community gathering space where residents can exercise, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. The addition of the new walking path further enhances the park's role as a destination for recreation and wellness!
Learn more about Wildwood Park and other Pima County Parks & Recreation facilities by visiting our website.
Help Shape Pima County’s Transportation Future
Department of Transporation is inviting residents to share their voice as it develops a long-range, 30-year transportation plan. This is your opportunity to help guide how our community moves, connects, and grows for decades to come.
Take the survey here: https://movingpima.com/
Put The Loop on Your Phone
Access The Loop quickly by adding it to your phone’s Home Screen. It opens just like an app and automatically updates to the latest version, no downloads or updates needed!
Click the link to get started.
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Next Issue: October 15, 2026
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