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.
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.
