Friday, November 1, 2024

Bits and Pieces

Update on federal grants
A few weeks ago, we reported on Oro Valley's efforts to secure significant funding for public works projects.  We noted  in the article that our grant request for repairing the La Cañada bridge was rejected. We have since learned that the rejection was due to the highly competitive nature of the grant process, with more projects requested than available funding. Senators Sinema and Kelly did secure $685,000 in federal funding for the Honey Bee Wash and Bridge Project, which is scheduled to begin next year.

Oro Valley Marketplace Revitalization  construction to begin in spring
According to a reliable source, progress should start this spring at the Oro Valley Marketplace. Town West plans to start construction on the Hampton Inn and Suites, with hope to begin building the 320 apartments on Tangerine Rd. this summer. The plans for the Hampton Inn and Suites are currently under staff review, and a pre-application meeting has already taken place regarding the Tangerine apartments.

More good news at the Marketplace

There’s also a new tenant in process in the Oro Valley Marketplace: A pickleball and fitness center. Town West has shared that much more is expected in 2025, including the rebranding of the marketplace to "Oro Valley Village Center." They hope everyone in Oro Valley will continue to support the stores, shops, and restaurants.

Free shred event tomorrow
Oro Valley residents are invited to a free document shredding event on Saturday, November 2, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Oro Valley Marketplace (11785 N. Oracle Road, south of Fork & Fire). The event, sponsored by the Town of Oro Valley, the Beacon Group, and the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce, will provide onsite shredding to help prevent identity theft. Services will be available until noon or until the trucks are full. For details, contact Jessica Hynd at jhynd@orovalleyaz.gov or 520-229-4711. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Traffic Alert: Lane restrictions on La Cañada begins Monday
Starting Monday, the Town of Oro Valley will begin road improvements on La Cañada Drive between Lambert Lane and Rancho Verde Drive, scheduled on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. through November 15, weather permitting. Lane restrictions will reduce traffic to a single lane in both directions, likely causing delays, so drivers are encouraged to use caution, share the road with cyclists, and consider alternate routes. This project, part of Oro Valley’s Capital Improvement Projects, includes utility adjustments, asphalt replacement, and new striping. For information, contact ask@orovalleyaz.gov or Jessica Hynd at 520-229-4711. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Arizona Heroes Memorial ribbon cutting on November 16
There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Arizona Heroes Memorial at Narnaja Park on November 16 at 11 a.m. Yesterday, in his State of the Town address, Mayor Winfield encouraged everyone to attend and salute our veterans, active military, first responders, and healthcare workers.

Oro Valley resident Lisa Bayless invests in Oro Valley through community support
Lisa Bayless, real estate agent at Long Realty for 17 years, is deeply invested in her Oro Valley community. Beyond her successful career—totaling over $500 million in sales—she started the “Community First” program seven years ago, which dedicates a portion of each commission to local causes. In celebration of Oro Valley’s 50th anniversary and her own milestones, Bayless donated $120,000 this year alone, bringing her seven-year contribution to over $500,000, with 90% staying within Oro Valley. She is a resident of Oro Valley and is enthusiastic about our community.
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