Tucson Seeks Community Voices for 2 Exciting Parks & Rec Projects

The Tucson Parks and Recreation Department is inviting community feedback on significant improvement initiatives at Reid Park and Dell Urich Golf Course. These projects aim to enhance local recreational spaces and promote better event management.

One key proposal involves implementing fencing around the DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center. City officials are weighing several options, including full permanent fencing, a combination of temporary and permanent solutions, or the continuation of current temporary barriers used during special events. The installation of a permanent fence is touted as a means to streamline ticketed events, bolster security, and eliminate the need for a separate alcohol garden by allowing the entire area to be licensed for sales.

Additional enhancements proposed for Reid Park include the potential introduction of a beer and wine garden, improvements for accessibility around the stage, and an extended proscenium for better shade and rigging capabilities. More details and a video walkthrough of these plans can be found at tucsonparks.info/reidpark.

Nearby, at the Randolph Park 22nd Street Path and Dell Urich Golf Course, the design firm Sasaki conducted a feasibility study as part of the “Randolph Reimagined” initiative. In September 2024, Parks and Recreation staff explored suggestions to improve the walking experience along 22nd Street and sought adjustments for the golf course and its surroundings.

Recommended changes include redesigning holes on the golf course; for instance, converting Hole 3 into a 460-yard par 4 with new tees and greens. There are also plans to introduce green stormwater infrastructure basins along 22nd Street and to plant 125 new trees in the vicinity.

Additional facilities could be incorporated, such as a ramada, picnic tables, a nature play area, and natural seating with logs and boulders. More information about these suggestions is available at tucsonparks.info/randolph.

Parks and Recreation officials stress the importance of public input in shaping the future of these spaces to align with community needs and aspirations. Surveys for both projects will remain open until Monday, February 17, at 11:45 p.m.

Funding for these improvements will be derived from Tucson’s Proposition 407. This measure, passed by voters in November 2018, allocated $225 million for various capital investments, intended to enhance city park amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, splash pads, recreation centers, and pedestrian and bicycle pathways.