SAFFORD — Over the past six months, the Safford Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee came up with a proposal that, if fully implemented, would Safford the envy of the Gila Valley when it comes to park amenities.
The committee will make a presentation on its work and recommendations to the City Council on Thursday.
The committee looked at four parks — the existing Firth and El Paso parks, the proposed park at 10th Avenue and 10th Street, and another new proposed park at Discovery Park Boulevard and 8th Avenue.
The recommendations for Firth Park are minor, such as relocating the playground equipment and planting more trees. At El Paso Park, the goal is to ensure playground equipment can accommodate everyone — including those with physical and emotional disability — as well as development of a zip line and a splash pad.
For the proposed park at 10th and 10th, the wish list is geared for teens and older users. Proposals include an obstacle course and fitness equipment, pickleball courts, public WiFi and solar-powered charging stations, permanent cornhole boards and a circular seating area.
A 15-acre park at Discovery Park Boulevard and 8th Avenue would be more of a gathering place for the entire family. Proposals include a creative arts amphitheater, space and electric hook-ups for food trucks, space for farmers markets, ramadas and communal seating with fire pits, game areas and musical play equipment for the entire family, and a dog park.
The City Council will hear the presentation at its meeting Thursday at 6 p.m. in the library’s program room.
