Study progress continues since March update
We last reported on the Town’s 2025 Trails Master Plan Study on March 28
At that time, we reported that the Town had launched the study, identified key trail systems to be included, and begun initial outreach to gather community input. Since that time, the Town has completed a resident survey, summarized all public input to date, developed a draft vision with ten guiding principles, and held a second stakeholder meeting to collect feedback on those drafts. Tonight, Town staff will review the latest with the Planning and Zoning Commission.Community survey results show strong support for trail maintenance and improved connectivity
The online survey received 735 responses, with 75% of respondents over age 55 and 95% being full- or part-time Oro Valley residents. Walking, road biking, and hiking were the most common uses. Across all trail types, the top priorities were regular maintenance, better connectivity to destinations, and improved signage and maps. Common barriers included a lack of ADA accessibility, limited parking, and unclear wayfinding. Respondents also emphasized the importance of trails close to home and connections to parks, schools, and shopping.
Parking, signage, and ADA access top list of trails barriers
The survey and other outreach efforts revealed several consistent barriers across Oro Valley’s trail and path systems. Many users cited inadequate parking, poor signage, and limited access to maps as obstacles. Lack of ADA accessibility was a concern, especially for unpaved trails. Users also noted safety concerns, discomfort due to limited shade or rest areas, and difficulty connecting to desired destinations. These issues were common across all four focus areas: unpaved trails, paved multi-use paths, the Loop, and the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve.
Stakeholders ask for restrooms, Wi-Fi, and more shade
At the May 8 stakeholder meeting, participants discussed the draft vision and guiding principles and offered additional feedback. Several comments focused on the need for basic amenities—such as restrooms, water fountains, and shaded seating—especially at high-use trailheads. Others emphasized the importance of reliable Wi-Fi access at locations like Vistoso Trails to support downloadable maps. Parking access for those who don’t live near trailheads was a recurring concern. Attendees also raised issues about maintenance practices, enforcement of trail rules, and the need for safe, accessible paths for all users. One organization, the Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists, expressed interest in partnering with the Town or Pima County to fund and install bike repair stations at trailheads.
Ten guiding principles will shape future decision
Based on community feedback, the Town has developed a draft vision that emphasizes a safe, well-maintained, and interconnected trail system that supports recreation, wellbeing, and a connection to nature. Supporting this vision are ten guiding principles organized under four themes: reinvesting in existing assets, enhancing community connectivity, growing a safe and accessible network, and improving signage and wayfinding. For example, one principle calls for adding restrooms, benches, and shade at heavily used trailheads. Another recommends providing downloadable digital maps and adding trail signage to help users navigate the system more easily. These principles will guide future decisions on trail amenities, maintenance, accessibility, and expansion.
Draft plan will include implementation steps, costs, and funding strategies... none of which have been discussed to date
At tonight’s meeting, the Town will also review the draft outline for the full Trails Master Plan. The outline includes dedicated chapters for each of Oro Valley’s four trail systems—unpaved trails, paved multi-use paths, the Loop, and the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. Each chapter will address existing conditions, proposed improvements, maintenance standards, signage, safety, accessibility, and future connections. The final plan will also include implementation steps, funding strategies, and a process for ongoing updates and public engagement. The final plan could reasonably be expected later in 2025
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