Tucson Bicycle Classic finale returns to Naranja Park Sunday
The Town of Oro Valley will host the final day of the Tucson Bicycle Classic this Sunday, February 22, at Naranja Park, with professional racing from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and free spectator viewing . More than 600 cyclists are expected to compete on the 2.8-mile circuit course that features a rolling loop and uphill finish on Musette Drive. Food trucks and a finish-line beer garden will be available, and the day begins with a 5K on the same course at 7:15 a.m. Residents should plan ahead for road closures around Naranja Drive, Musette Road and Monterra Vista Drive, and note that there will be no vehicle parking inside the park. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)
Tommorrow...Off the Vine Wine Festival At Kriegh Park
The Town of Oro Valley will host the Off the Vine Wine Festival 2026 on Saturday, February 21, beginning at 12 p.m. at James D. Kriegh Par. Founded to celebrate Arizona’s growing wine industry, the event brings together vineyard owners and winemakers from across the state, along with food vendors curated in partnership with Tucson Foodie, live music, artisan market vendors and family-friendly activities. The festival is a 21+ event, although children under 12 may attend with a legal guardian. The event will be held rain or shine, and tickets are required.
Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council presented a Certificate of Recognition to resident and real estate professional Lisa Bayless in appreciation of her long-standing financial and personal support of the community. Over the past eight years, Bayless and her husband, Jeff, have contributed more than $665,000 to public safety initiatives and local events, including sponsorship of the Fourth of July fireworks, the Town’s 50th anniversary celebration, National Night Out, police ballistic vests and K-9 units, SnowV, Project Graduation, the Amphi Foundation and the Arizona Heroes Memorial. Councilmembers noted that her involvement goes beyond writing checks, highlighting her consistent presence at events and active partnership with Town staff. The plaque, signed by Mayor Winfield on February 18, 2026, recognized her impact on the quality of life in Oro Valley and her ongoing commitment to the community. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Council Meeting, 2-18-16, 24:59)
Some question OVPD use of license plate reader network
Two speakers raised concerns about the Town’s participation in the Flock Safety license plate reader network, a system that uses fixed cameras to capture vehicle license plate images and compare them against law enforcement databases. The technology is intended to help police locate stolen vehicles, identify vehicles connected to crimes, and share information with other agencies. However, the speakers questioned whether automated data collection creates broader surveillance risks, including tracking residents’ movements and sharing data across numerous outside agencies. One speaker cited constitutional privacy concerns and urged stronger safeguards such as warrant-based access, while the other asked whether alternative grant-funded tools might better balance safety and privacy. At the conclusion of Call to Audience, the Vice Mayor asked that police follow up with the individuals who spoke, and the Mayor acknowledged the referral to the Police Department. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Council Meeting, 2-18-16, 10:11)
Primary moved to July 21 under newly signed state law
Arizona’s 2026 primary election will now be held on July 21 following passage of House Bill 2022, which was signed into law by Governor Hobbs on February 6, 2026. The legislation permanently shifts the state primary to the second-to-last Tuesday in July and adjusts related election deadlines. For Oro Valley, this means the mayoral and town council primary will also take place on July 21. As a result of the new schedule, the candidate signature filing window has moved to February 21 through March 23. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)
Traffic advisory: Wicked Fast Marathon may slow Oracle Road tomorrow morning
Drivers should expect minor delays on N. Oracle Road (SR 77) tomorrow between approximately 6:30 a.m. and noon due to the Wicked Fast Marathon & Half Marathon. The race begins on Biosphere Road, proceeds south along Oracle through Catalina into Oro Valley, and then turns west onto the Chuck Huckleberry Loop. (Mulit-Use Path) Participants will use the shoulder of northbound Oracle Road, and traffic control will be in place near Oracle and Innovation Market Drive by the Oro Valley Marketplace and Catalina State Park. Motorists are advised to use caution, avoid the shoulder, and follow posted signs and directions from police officers. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)
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