Thatcher Council takes first step toward Linear Park development

Melanie Tluczek, executive director for Gila Watershed Partnership, right, gives an update on the proposed Linear Park along the Gila River to the the Thatcher Town Council. - David Bell Photo/GIla Valley Central

THATCHER — Gila Watershed Partnership’s proposed Linear Park, a trail along the Gila River, is one step closer to reality, thanks to the Thatcher Town Council.

The council recently voted unanimously to accept an easement for a portion of the trail.

“I think it’s a good sign for things to come,” said GWP Executive Director Melanie Tluczek.

Tluczek also said that Graham County has committed $200,000 of CARES Act funding for the project, contingent on GWP being able to raise the remainder.

The 7.4-mile park, with multiple trails, would run through both Safford and Thatcher along the Gila River. The 4.2 miles in Safford is estimated to cost $2.62 million, while the 3.2 miles in Thatcher would cost about $1.74 million.

Contributed Photo/GWP. The proposed linear park along the Gila River, connecting Safford and Thatcher, is projected to cost upward of $4.36 million.

However, during a previous discussion about recreation, members of the Safford City Council said they consider the Linear Park to be a “low priority.”

Tluczek met with the Safford City Council last Friday in a work session on recreation, to once again present the Linear Park proposal.

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