Oro Valley Trails Connect Master Plan continues to take shapeOro Valley’s OV Trails Connect Master Plan is the Town’s first comprehensive effort since 2010 to evaluate, upgrade, and expand its network of unpaved trails and paved paths. The Town’s trails and paths are a key feature of our community, used by residents and visitors alike. Once approved by the Town Council, the plan will serve as a guide for maintaining and expanding Oro Valley’s trail system.
How the process began
The study began in early 2025 with surveys, stakeholder meetings, and “trailside chats” that gathered input from hundreds of residents about how they use and value local trails. Earlier discussions focused on developing a shared vision and identifying key priorities such as connectivity, maintenance, and safety.
Public input shapes the 60% draft
Since those initial discussions, Town staff and consultant Kimley-Horn have broadened public involvement through additional meetings with residents, stakeholders, and regional partners. According to staff, participants have provided comments on the Town’s paved path and unpaved trail assets, as well as feedback on the draft vision and guiding principles.
The plan is now organized around four focus areas, each representing a key part of Oro Valley’s trail and path network:
- Unpaved trails: Natural-surface trails such as those in Big Wash, Honey Bee Canyon, and other open-space areas.
- Multi-use paths (MUPs): Paved paths located along or separate from major roadways, including those on La Cholla, Tangerine, and Naranja.
- The Loop within Oro Valley: The portion of the regional Pima County Loop system that runs through the Town.
- Paths at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve: The paved paths within the Preserve, including its main concrete trail network and access points.
Amenities and partnerships added to the discussion
The plan gives attention to accessibility and user comfort, calling for amenities such as restrooms, benches, shade, and ADA-compliant trailheads. It also begins to outline strategies for partnerships, volunteer programs, and grant funding to support long-term maintenance and future expansion.
Challenges that remain
Even with the progress reflected in the 60% draft, several challenges remain unresolved. The plan still does not specify how proposed improvements will be funded or maintained, offering no dedicated funding source or staffing plan for ongoing upkeep. Coordination with the State Land Department on future trail easements—especially in areas north of Big Wash—remains undefined. While the document outlines safety and etiquette goals, it lacks detail on enforcement and accountability. Environmental considerations, such as habitat protection and trail impact assessments, are addressed only broadly, with no clear standards or procedures. Finally, the plan does not yet establish measurable performance goals or timelines to track whether future trail expansion and maintenance efforts achieve their intended results.
Time to get involved
The 60% draft marks the first time Oro Valley’s OV Trails Connect Master Plan has been presented as a complete document for public and advisory review. Following input from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, the draft will go to the Town Council in mid-November for additional feedback. Staff and the consultant will then refine the plan and share a final version with residents and regional partners early next year. The Town expects to bring the completed plan back to the Board and Council for approval in the spring of 2026.
Because Oro Valley’s trails and paths are an essential part of the community’s quality of life, supporting recreation, health, and connection to nature, we encourage you to review the plan, share you thoughts to help shape the future of this community asset.
“Throughout this process, the community is invited to www.OVTrailsConnect.com to sign up for the Trails Stakeholder Group, stay informed about the latest materials and information, and reach out to Senior Planner Kyle Packer (kpacker@orovalleyaz.gov) with comments and questions.”
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