Friday, March 7, 2025

Bits and Pieces

Hockey Night: Oro Valley teams up with the Tucson Roadrunners
Oro Valley residents have a special opportunity to celebrate their community while enjoying professional hockey at Oro Valley Community Night with the Tucson Roadrunners on March 16, 2025. The event, held at the Tucson Convention Center, kicks off at 2 p.m. with a St. Patrick’s Day-themed pre-game party, featuring live music and festive activities. The first 1,000 fans through the doors will receive a free St. Patty’s Day Roadrunners T-shirt, and Mayor Joe Winfield will take part in the ceremonial puck drop. Oro Valley businesses and organizations will also be showcased throughout the evening. With discounted ticket prices starting at just $15, this event is a great chance for families, friends, and hockey fans to come together and support their local team. Get your tickets here. (Source: Town of Oro Valley media release)

Take the Trails Connectivity Survey Now
The Town of Oro Valley is seeking community input through the OV Trails Connect survey, giving residents a chance to share their thoughts on the town’s trail and multi-use path network. This is an opportunity to influence future improvements and ensure the trails meet the needs of walkers, runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. The survey is open until March 17, 2025. Your feedback will help guide future investments and enhancements—take a few minutes to have your voice heard! Also, the town will host a stakeholder meeting at 5:30 pm at town hall on March 12. It is available to all.

Mark your calender: Vistoso Nature Preserve Update – April 16
The consulting firm Kimley-Horn will return to the Town Council on April 16 to present updated concepts for the pond at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. This is an important update for those following the preserve restoration efforts.

Mark you calender: Celebrate Oro Valley – April 12
The town’s annual celebration will be held at James D. Kriegh Park from 1 to 5 p.m. This event is a key opportunity to bring the community together. Learn more here.

Oro Valley in March: Community events bringing people together 
Oro Valley is offering a variety of engaging activities this month, bringing the community together through outdoor recreation and entertainment. The Oro Valley Hiking Series began on March 1 with a guided trek through Dead Horse Canyon, gives outdoor enthusiasts a chance to explore the unique landscape. Families can attend the Second Saturday event on March 8 at Steam Pump Ranch, which includes historical tours, live music, and a farmers’ market. Later in the month, on March 15, the Movie at the Ranch event will screen "Inside Out 2" under the stars, offering a fun-filled evening. Families can also participate in the overnight Camping at the Ranch event on March 29-30, complete with s’mores and a pancake breakfast. These events reflect Oro Valley’s commitment to fostering community engagement and encouraging outdoor activities. See this link for information on these an and other events.

Public art tours: Extended by popular demand
Oro Valley’s pilot program for public art tours, originally planned to run from February through mid-April, has been extended until July 2, 2025, due to overwhelming interest. These guided tours provide residents and visitors with an opportunity to explore the town’s vibrant public art scene, showcasing sculptures, murals, and installations that reflect the community’s creativity. Registration is available online, and those interested are encouraged to check back frequently, as spots may open due to cancellations. This extension highlights the growing appreciation for public art in Oro Valley and the town’s commitment to making cultural experiences accessible to all. (Source: Town of Oro Valley media release)

Wildfire safety: Oro Valley and Golder Ranch Fire partner to educate residents
With wildfire risks growing in the western U.S., the Town of Oro Valley and the Golder Ranch Fire District are taking proactive steps to educate residents on fire prevention and emergency preparedness. On March 14, 2025, they will co-host a Wildfire Safety Community Q&A at the Oro Valley Town Hall Council Chambers from 3 to 5 p.m., featuring insights from fire officials on home protection strategies and the latest wildfire risk assessments. Attendees will learn about the Ready, Set, Go! evacuation system and other critical safety measures. The event will also be streamed on Zoom for those unable to attend in person, with a recording available later on social media. This collaboration highlights the town’s commitment to equipping residents with the knowledge needed to safeguard their homes and community from wildfire threats. Join the Zoom Livestream here. (Source: Town of Oro Valley media release)

A step forward: Improved accessibility at the Community Center
Oro Valley has taken a significant step in enhancing accessibility with the completion of the Community and Recreation Center’s new entryway and elevator. The ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated a project that now allows residents and visitors of all abilities to enjoy easier access to key amenities, including the Overlook Restaurant, Golf Pro Shop, and community rooms. The improvements include a lowered entryway, a new elevator, and 10 additional accessible parking spaces, all aimed at making the facility more inclusive. Overcoming the challenges of renovating a 40-year-old building, town officials emphasized that this project is about more than just construction—it’s about ensuring that public spaces are welcoming for everyone. (Source: Town of Oro Valley media release)
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