Community Engagement
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In-Person Engagement
A cornerstone of the Rio Reimagined outreach strategy was collaboration with the corridor’s local agency partners to maximize community engagement and expand the project’s reach. Through the Stakeholder Advisory Group (SAG), the project team established direct lines of communication with each participating agency, including access to Public Information Officers (PIOs) and outreach staff who possess strong connections within their respective communities. This collaborative approach enabled the project to leverage existing community events, communication networks, and trusted local relationships to engage a broader and more diverse audience than could have been achieved through a standalone outreach effort.
Working closely with partner agencies allowed the team to identify opportunities for project promotion, coordinate participation at local events, and host targeted pop-up engagement activities throughout the corridor. The SAG also provided a valuable platform for sharing outreach materials across agency communication channels, including websites, newsletters, email distributions, and social media platforms. By utilizing the established communication networks of each partner agency, the project significantly increased awareness of the study, expanded opportunities for public participation, and ensured that outreach efforts were tailored to the unique communities and stakeholders served by each jurisdiction. This coordinated, region-wide approach strengthened engagement outcomes and helped ensure that community input reflected the diverse perspectives present throughout the Rio Reimagined corridor.
In-Person Community Engagement Activities
The Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study employed a diverse range of in-person community engagement activities designed to reach residents, stakeholders, and user groups throughout the Rio Reimaged corridor. Each activity was intended to gather meaningful input regarding community priorities, desired improvements, access, and long-term vision for the Rio Reimagined corridor.
Dot-Ocracy Voting Exercise
Dot-Ocracy boards were utilized at community events to gather quick and visual feedback regarding desired trail amenities and corridor improvements. Participants were asked to vote on preferred features by placing dots on boards displaying various amenity options. The exercise provided an engaging and easy-to-understand method for collecting large amounts of input from diverse audiences.
Rubber Band Board Activity
The rubber band board exercise was a highly interactive engagement tool that encouraged participants to connect desired activities, amenities, feelings, and experiences within the river corridor. Rather than simply selecting amenities, participants used rubber bands to illustrate relationships between what they wanted to do, how they wanted to feel, and what features would support those experiences. The exercise provided deeper insight into community values and desired user experiences.
3D Rio Reimagined Topographic Corridor Map Model
The project team also created a physical 3D project model to help community members better understand the scale, geography, and potential opportunities within the Rio Reimagined corridor. Because the study area spans approximately 90 miles across multiple jurisdictions and river systems, one of the challenges during public outreach was helping residents visualize how their local community fits into the larger regional network. The three-dimensional corridor model provided an interactive and highly visual method for exploring the corridor and identifying opportunities for future access, connectivity, and recreation.
The model was used as both an educational and engagement tool. Participants were invited to review existing access opportunities, identify areas where access is currently limited, and recommend locations for future trailheads, river access points, crossings, parking areas, and community gateways. This interactive approach allowed residents to provide highly localized feedback regarding barriers to access, missing connections, and desired entry points into the Rio Reimagined corridor. The tool was particularly effective in identifying locations where residents felt disconnected from the corridor despite living nearby and where strategic investments could improve accessibility and visibility. This visualization helped participants better understand how proposed improvements could connect communities to the river and how the active transportation system could function as a regional network linking destinations throughout the Valley.
LEGO Visioning Activity
The LEGO Visioning Activity was one of the most interactive and creative engagement tools used during the community outreach process. This hands-on exercise invited participants to physically build their vision for the future Rio Reimagined corridor using LEGO bricks. Unlike traditional surveys or voting exercises, the activity encouraged participants to think beyond individual amenities and instead create physical representations of the experiences, destinations, connections, trailheads and community spaces they would like to see along the river corridor.
Participants worked individually or in small groups to construct models that reflected their ideas for trails, trailheads, recreation areas, riverfront destinations, environmental features, gathering spaces, cultural amenities, and transportation connections. Once completed, participants shared their models with project team members, providing valuable insight into the priorities, values, and aspirations that shaped their designs. This activity encouraged storytelling and discussion, allowing community members to explain not only what they wanted to see, but why those features were important to their community and quality of life.
The LEGO exercise proved particularly effective for engaging youth, families, and participants who may be less comfortable providing feedback through traditional planning methods. By creating a fun, visual, and collaborative environment, the activity helped generate ideas from a broader cross-section of the community while fostering meaningful conversations about the future of the corridor. The exercise also helped participants understand the regional scale of the project and think about how trail systems, parks, natural areas, and destinations could be connected throughout the Rio Reimagined corridor.
Community Events Attended
Community outreach events held across the Rio Reimagined corridor played a key role in fostering meaningful connections, raising awareness, and gathering valuable input from residents and stakeholders. These events provided opportunities for the community to learn more about the project, share their thoughts, and actively participate in shaping the vision for the corridor’s future. By bringing informational materials, interactive displays, and hands-on engagement activities to key partnering communities throughout the corridor, the project team ensured that outreach was accessible to a wide and diverse audience. Each event served as a platform to build relationships, address community questions, and inspire collaboration, laying the foundation for an inclusive planning process that reflects the unique needs and aspirations of the people within the Rio Reimagined corridor.
In-person Community Events Along the Corridor
Community Engagement Activities
The Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study employed a diverse range of in-person community engagement activities designed to reach residents, stakeholders, and user groups throughout the Rio Reimaged corridor. Each activity was intended to gather meaningful input regarding community priorities, desired improvements, access, and long-term vision for the Rio Reimagined corridor.
Phoenix Light Rail Opening Event
June 7, 2025 | Phoenix, Arizona
City of Buckeye Halloween Carnival
October 25, 2025 | 530 E Monroe Avenue, Buckeye, AZ 85326
Nature Fest PHX 2025
November 8, 2025 | 7th Avenue Trail Head. 2801 S. 7th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85003
West Valley Heart Walk
November 15, 2025 | Goodyear Civic Square, Goodyear, AZ 85395
Tres Rios Nature Festival 2026
February 28, 2026 and March 1, 2026 | Tres Rios Base and Meridian Wildlife Area, Avondale, AZ
Stakeholder/Focus Group Meetings
Below is a summary of the Stakeholder and Focus Group Meeting conducted as part of the Rio Reimagined project. For additional details, please refer to the full meeting minutes.
April 23, 2025
The Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Stakeholder Advisory Group Kick-off Meeting initiated the Stakeholder Advisory Group’s involvement in the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study. The meeting provided an overview of the study purpose, goals, project limits, and timeline, while participants shared agency priorities, relevant projects, corridor opportunities, and active transportation needs. Discussion topics included regional trail connectivity, river access, park and trail improvements, environmental restoration, cultural resource considerations, flood and fire mitigation, economic development, and coordination with planned transportation and infrastructure projects. The meeting also introduced the community engagement process and identified next steps, including agency focus group meetings, review of the Community and Stakeholder Engagement Plan, coordination with public information officers, launch of the project website, and identification of upcoming community events for pop-up outreach.
June 2, 2025
The City of Phoenix Stakeholder Group Meeting provided an opportunity for City of Phoenix staff and project partners to discuss corridor priorities, active transportation opportunities, and ongoing planning efforts within the Phoenix segment of the Rio Reimagined corridor. Key discussion topics included the RIO PHX initiative, Tres Rios trailhead development, the Rio Salado Oeste corridor, trail and pathway connectivity, safe bicycle and pedestrian crossings, environmental restoration, stakeholder coordination, and the potential impacts of the proposed SR 30 corridor. The Rio Salado Oeste Corridor is an 8-mile stretch of the Salt River in Phoenix, Arizona, designated for ecosystem restoration, floodplain management, and public recreation. It spans from 19th Avenue west to 83rd Avenue, sitting downstream (west/oeste) of the completed Rio Salado project and upstream of the Tres Rios project. Participants also identified opportunities to coordinate outreach efforts with existing community groups and planning initiatives and emphasized the importance of integrating transportation, recreation, restoration, and economic development goals into a unified corridor vision.
June 17, 2025
The City of Mesa Stakeholder Focus Group Meeting provided an opportunity for City of Mesa staff, MAG, and the project team to discuss active transportation priorities, trail planning efforts, and opportunities for regional connectivity within the Mesa portion of the Rio Reimagined corridor. Discussion focused on planned and conceptual trail projects identified through the City’s Bicycle Master Plan, including the Red Mountain Shared Use Path, Lehi Loop, South Canal connections, and future Salt River corridor improvements. Participants identified land ownership, right-of-way limitations, and coordination with tribal, federal, and utility partners as key implementation considerations while emphasizing the importance of improving regional trail connectivity and long-term access to the river corridor.
June 18, 2025
The ASU UCX Stakeholder Group Meeting provided an opportunity for the project team to engage with ASU and the UCX team regarding regional goals, planning priorities, and long-term opportunities associated with the Rio Reimagined corridor. Participants emphasized the importance of regional collaboration, meaningful public engagement, and addressing implementation challenges such as land diverse ownership and multi-jurisdictional coordination necessary to advance a connected system of trails, pathways, and river access improvements throughout the corridor.
ASU’s University City Exchange serves as the convener, facilitator, and strategic coordinator of the Rio Reimagined initiative. Through regional visioning, stakeholder engagement, research, communications, and partnership development, ASU helps unite cities, tribal nations, federal agencies, nonprofits, businesses, and residents around a shared vision for the Salt and Gila river corridors. Since the initiative’s launch in 2018, ASU has played a central role in building the collaborative framework that supports Rio Reimagine’s goals of environmental restoration, recreation, active transportation, community revitalization, economic development, and regional resilience. By helping connect local projects into a broader regional strategy, the University City Exchange is laying the foundation for a more connected, sustainable, and vibrant river corridor that benefits communities across metropolitan Phoenix.
June 18, 2025
The City of Buckeye Stakeholder Focus Group Meeting provided an opportunity for City of Buckeye staff, MAG, and the project team to discuss community priorities, corridor opportunities, and active transportation needs within the western portion of the Rio Reimagined corridor. Discussion focused on flood and fire mitigation, environmental restoration, recreation, economic development, trail connectivity, and improved access to the Gila River corridor. Participants also discussed the City’s vision for future riverfront parks, trailheads, and pathway connections, while identifying opportunities to build upon existing planning efforts and strengthen regional connections through the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study.
June 25, 2025
The City of Avondale Stakeholder Group Meeting provided an opportunity for City staff, MAG, and the project team to discuss local priorities, active transportation needs, and long-term opportunities within the Avondale segment of the Rio Reimagined corridor. Discussion focused on preserving open space, improving access to the Tres Rios confluence area, expanding regional and local trail connections, supporting recreation and tourism, and enhancing environmental stewardship throughout the river corridor. Participants highlighted the significance of regional destinations such as the Phoenix Raceway, Monument Hill, and the Secondary Base Meridian Marker, while identifying opportunities for coordination with environmental organizations, landowners, developers, and regional partners to advance a connected and accessible river corridor network.
Stakeholders discussed the need for broad coordination with a diverse range of organizations and interests throughout the corridor. Recommended stakeholders included mining and quarry operators, environmental organizations such as the Audubon Society, recreation and tourism partners, master-planned communities including Brookfield and Alamar, the Rio Reimagined Partnership, and the Lower Gila River Collaborative, which is leading additional planning and restoration initiatives in the western portion of the corridor. Participants emphasized that successful implementation will require extensive collaboration among public agencies, private landowners, nonprofit organizations, and community partners.
June 25, 2025
The Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) Stakeholder Group Meeting provided an opportunity for Tribal representatives, MAG, and the project team to discuss active transportation priorities, river corridor opportunities, and regional connectivity needs associated with the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study. Discussion focused on protecting cultural and environmental resources, improving bicycle and pedestrian connectivity, and coordinating future transportation investments with Tribal planning efforts. Participants also highlighted the redevelopment potential of the approximately 270-acre former SRMG mining site along the Salt River, known as the Dobson Site, which is anticipated to transition from aggregate mining operations to a major mixed-use development area that could serve as a future destination and connectivity hub within the Rio Reimagined corridor.
July 17, 2025
The City of Tempe Stakeholder Group Meeting provided an opportunity for City of Tempe staff, MAG, and the project team to discuss active transportation priorities, regional trail connectivity, and long-term opportunities within the Tempe segment of the Rio Reimagined corridor. Discussion focused on improving bicycle and pedestrian connections, expanding access to recreational destinations, supporting transportation and park planning initiatives, and building upon the success of Tempe Town Lake and the Rio Salado pathway system. Participants emphasized Tempe’s role as a model for integrating recreation, economic development, environmental stewardship, tourism, and active transportation along the Salt River corridor while identifying opportunities to strengthen regional connections throughout the broader Rio Reimagined network.
August 11, 2025
The City of Goodyear Group Meeting provided an opportunity for City staff, MAG, and the project team to discuss active transportation priorities, regional trail connectivity, and long-term opportunities within Goodyear’s portion of the Rio Reimagined corridor. Discussion focused on improving connections between the Bullard Wash trail system and the Rio Reimagined corridor, enhancing access to the Tres Rios confluence area, coordinating future transportation and park investments, and expanding regional bicycle and pedestrian connectivity. Participants emphasized the importance of connecting neighborhoods, parks, employment centers, and recreational destinations while supporting environmental stewardship, economic development, and recreation throughout the western segment of the corridor.
August 15, 2025
The purpose of this meeting was to connect the consultant team (ABLE Studio) leading the scoping of a regional vision plan for the RIO PHX corridor with the consultant team (Kimley-Horn) leading the development of this Rio Active Transportation Study to ensure alignment among two interdependent regional planning processes. Discussion focused on identifying strategies to strengthen community engagement and public participation throughout the Rio Reimagined corridor and clearly articulate the relationship between the two regional plans. Topics included stakeholder engagement strategies, outreach tools, project branding, digital engagement platforms, community partnerships, and approaches for reaching diverse and historically underrepresented populations. The meeting reinforced the importance of creating a community-driven planning process that supports the broader Rio Reimagined vision for transportation, recreation, environmental stewardship, economic development, and regional connectivity.
August 25, 2025
The State and Federal Agencies Focus Group, facilitated by ASU UCX, brought together representatives from numerous state and federal agencies, regional organizations, and technical partners to discuss the early stages of scoping a comprehensive Rio Reimagined Vision Plan, for which the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study would be a key foundation.
Participants shared their input on how their respective agencies could contribute to and support both the development and implementation of a future regional vision plan for the river corridor. Participants then learned about reviewed the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study’s vision for creating a connected active transportation network along the Salt and Gila river corridors and provided feedback on regional connectivity, recreation access, environmental stewardship, economic development, and community benefit.
Participating Agencies and Organizations
The meeting included representatives from the following agencies and organizations:
Federal Agencies
- U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR/BOR)
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA Region 9)
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
- U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
- U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service (USDA Forest Service)
- U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT)
State Agencies
- Arizona State Parks and Trails (ASPT)
- Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ)
- Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT)
- Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM)
- Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD)
Regional and Local Organizations
- Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG)
- Salt River Project (SRP)
- Greater Phoenix Leadership
- Rio Reimagined Ambassador Program / Urban Waters Federal Partnership
- Arizona State University (ASU City Exchange)
- Sixth World Solutions
Participants reviewed the study’s vision for creating a connected active transportation network along the Salt, Gila, and Agua Fria river corridors and provided feedback on regional connectivity, recreation access, environmental stewardship, economic development, and community benefits.
Key discussion topics included coordination with existing transportation, conservation, and watershed initiatives; environmental restoration and habitat protection; cultural resource considerations; and regulatory requirements related to future project implementation. Agencies also discussed potential funding opportunities, technical assistance programs, and partnership strategies to support corridor improvements. Overall, participants expressed strong support for the Rio Reimagined vision and emphasized the importance of continued coordination among local, tribal, state, federal, academic, and nonprofit partners to advance priority projects and maximize regional impact.
The meeting focused on ensuring the vision plan aligns with agency priorities, available funding programs, and ongoing planning efforts throughout the region.
Participants discussed how Rio Reimagined can advance shared goals related to active transportation, environmental restoration, wildlife habitat, floodplain management, recreation access, climate resilience, wildfire mitigation, water resources, and economic development. Agencies emphasized the value of a coordinated regional framework that can connect existing projects, improve grant competitiveness, and support long-term implementation across multiple jurisdictions.
Key Themes
- Regional coordination and multi-jurisdictional collaboration
- Ecosystem restoration, habitat enhancement, and wildlife connectivity
- Floodplain management and nature-based resilience strategies
- Active transportation and trail network connectivity
- Wildfire mitigation and invasive species management
- Leveraging federal and state funding opportunities
- Project readiness, permitting, and environmental review coordination
- Recreation access, public health, and outdoor recreation opportunities
- Community engagement and environmental education
- Strengthening partnerships among agencies, tribal communities, academia, and nonprofit organizations
The group recommended continued engagement with state and federal agencies throughout plan development, early coordination on environmental and technical studies, and inclusion of additional stakeholders such as tribal communities, conservation organizations, utilities, infrastructure owners, and academic institutions. Overall, participants expressed strong support for developing a comprehensive regional vision that can improve environmental outcomes, enhance recreation and mobility, attract funding, and strengthen partnerships throughout the Rio Reimagined corridor.
As part of the ASU Rio Reimagined State and Federal Focus Group meeting held on August 25, 2025, the MAG Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study team facilitated an interactive focus group exercise to gather input from participating state and federal agencies, regional organizations, technical experts, and partner stakeholders. The exercise was designed to help inform the development of the Active Transportation Study by soliciting feedback on corridor priorities, future opportunities, recreational amenities, implementation challenges, and stakeholder engagement needs. The input collected provides valuable guidance for identifying regional priorities and shaping future recommendations for the Rio Reimagined corridor.
What We Heard
Participants envisioned the river corridor evolving into a connected, activated, and amenity-rich regional destination that balances economic development with environmental stewardship. Common themes included expanded trail and outdoor recreation opportunities, public river access, connected active transportation facilities, green space preservation, healthy riparian ecosystems, ecotourism, arts and cultural experiences, and coordinated redevelopment that embraces the river as a regional asset. Participants expressed a desire for the corridor to become a recognizable point of pride for the region and to maintain its ecological character and providing relief from urban development pressures.
When discussing project priorities, respondents consistently emphasized connectivity as the most important outcome, including continuous trail connections, links to existing regional trail systems, multimodal connectivity, and connections to underserved communities. Other frequently cited priorities included environmental protection, equitable access, recreation opportunities, climate resilience, safe transportation facilities, habitat enhancement, economic development, regional collaboration, and protecting the balance between natural open spaces and future development. Participants also highlighted the importance of connecting people to the river while supporting flood control functions, sustainable water management practices, and Indigenous history and cultural resources.
The focus group also explored desired programs and amenities within the corridor. Participants identified special interest events, environmental education programs, races and fitness activities, field trips, and outdoor learning opportunities as valuable programming elements. The highest-rated amenities included shade, wayfinding signage and mile markers, seating areas, safety infrastructure, restrooms, and lighting. These responses reinforce the need for a safe, comfortable, and user-friendly trail experience that encourages both recreation and transportation use.
Participants expressed a strong preference for a combination of hard and soft trail surfaces, recognizing the need to accommodate different user groups while maintaining flexibility across varying corridor conditions. For roadway crossings and connectivity, respondents favored grade-separated solutions where feasible, reflecting a desire for increased safety and uninterrupted travel along the corridor.
The group also identified several barriers that may affect implementation of active-transportation improvements. Key challenges included funding limitations, fragmented trail systems, private land ownership constraints, access issues, lack of shade, airport-related airspace restrictions, erosion concerns, and the coordination required among multiple stakeholders and landowners. These considerations will help inform project prioritization and implementation strategies moving forward.
Finally, participants recommended continued engagement with a broad range of stakeholders throughout the study process. Suggested groups included tribal communities, disability advocacy organizations, bicycle and pedestrian groups, conservation organizations, schools and universities, tourism interests, arts and culture organizations, private landowners, mining operators, philanthropy organizations, water-resource agencies, and community-based organizations serving historically underserved populations. Participants emphasized that meaningful engagement with these groups will be essential to building support, identifying opportunities, and ensuring that the Rio Reimagined corridor reflects the diverse needs and values of the region.
Overall, the focus group reaffirmed strong support for a regionally connected active transportation network that advances mobility, recreation, environmental stewardship, equitable access, economic vitality, and long-term resilience throughout the Rio Reimagined corridor. The feedback gathered from state and federal partners will be incorporated into the study’s recommendations, project prioritization framework, and future implementation strategies.
October 14, 2025
The October ASU Rio Reimagined Partnership Meeting focused on advancing regional coordination and implementation of Rio Reimagined initiatives across the Salt and Gila river corridors. Participants reviewed progress on the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study, including results from community engagement efforts that highlighted strong public support for improved trail connectivity, safer multimodal transportation options, enhanced river access, and stronger connections between communities.
The partnership also discussed ongoing development of the Rio Reimagined Regional Vision Plan, with an emphasis on aligning local, tribal, and regional planning efforts into a unified corridor-wide vision. Conversations focused on environmental restoration, recreation, active transportation, economic development, and community revitalization opportunities. Partners reviewed opportunities to strengthen collaboration and position future projects for state and federal funding by demonstrating broad regional support and multi-jurisdictional coordination.
Additional updates included municipal planning and infrastructure initiatives, technical studies, asset mapping efforts, and environmental considerations affecting future investments within the corridor. The meeting reinforced the importance of continued partnership among cities, tribal communities, agencies, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations to advance a shared vision for the long-term transformation and stewardship of the Rio Reimagined corridor.
October 22, 2025
The meeting provided an opportunity for Rio Reimagined partner agencies and stakeholders to review project progress, discuss community and stakeholder engagement findings, and provide input on the ongoing development of the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study. Discussion focused on regional trail connectivity, active transportation opportunities, river access, recreation, environmental stewardship, and implementation strategies. Participants reviewed emerging study recommendations and provided guidance intended to help refine corridor concepts and support development of a coordinated regional vision for the Salt and Gila river corridors. The meeting reinforced the importance of continued collaboration among municipalities, tribal nations, regional partners, and community stakeholders as the study advances toward final recommendations.
The primary focus of the meeting was the presentation and discussion of themes emerging from public outreach and stakeholder engagement efforts conducted throughout the study area. The project team shared findings related to trail connectivity, river access, recreation opportunities, environmental stewardship, safety, active transportation infrastructure, and regional connectivity.
Participants also discussed progress toward establishing a continuous regional active transportation network connecting communities along the Salt and Gila River corridors. The conversation focused on opportunities to improve bicycle and pedestrian access, strengthen connections between existing and planned trail systems, expand access to parks and recreational destinations, and support broader Rio Reimagined goals related to economic development, environmental restoration, recreation, and community health.
January 15, 2026
The ARPA Meeting provided an opportunity for representatives of the aggregate and mining industry, regional partners, and the project team to discuss the relationship between resource management, economic development, environmental stewardship, and active transportation planning within the Rio Reimagined corridor. Discussion focused on identifying opportunities for coordination between Rio Reimagined initiatives and existing mining operations, future reclamation efforts, river corridor access improvements, and long-term redevelopment opportunities. Participants emphasized the importance of collaboration among industry representatives, public agencies, and community partners to support implementation of a connected river corridor that balances recreation, environmental restoration, economic vitality, and transportation connectivity.
April 7, 2026
The Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study Stakeholder Advisory Group met on April 7, 2026, to review community engagement findings, discuss the corridor mapping and prioritization methodologies, evaluate draft Rio pathway alignment, and gather feedback on implementation strategies. The meeting included representatives from local jurisdictions, agency partners, and the project team.
The project team presented a summary of extensive public outreach efforts conducted throughout the study area, including participation at community events such as the Light Rail Central Station Opening, Phoenix Nature Fest, West Valley Heart Walk, Boo Bash, Buckeye Halloween Carnival, and Tres Rios Nature Festival, as well as feedback collected through surveys and the Social Pinpoint online engagement platform. Stakeholders reviewed recurring community themes, recreation trends, desired program enhancements, and the draft project vision and goals.
The project team presented the mapping methodology used to identify priority active transportation connections and access corridors. Stakeholders discussed the importance of safe trail access, the use of Transportation Analysis Zones (TAZs) in the analysis, and the rationale behind corridor prioritization criteria. Several participants expressed concerns regarding the feasibility of implementing bicycle facilities along some major arterial roadways and emphasized the need to identify realistic crossings and connections, particularly where railroads, canals, and the Salt River create barriers. Discussion also focused on ensuring that prioritized corridors reflect practical implementation opportunities and align with local planning efforts.
The project team presented a draft Rio corridor pathway alignment. Stakeholders highlighted opportunities to coordinate with environmental restoration projects and regional infrastructure initiatives to improve connectivity. Several participants supported using canal corridors where feasible, noting that they provide a more comfortable and scenic user experience than freeway-adjacent facilities. Additional discussion focused on future connectivity challenges and opportunities in the East Valley, including potential partnerships with mining operations, future development projects, and coordination with planned transportation projects such as the SR 30 shared-use path.
The group also reviewed the trail segment prioritization framework. Stakeholders questioned the value of including transit access as a major evaluation criterion, noting that it could disadvantage portions of the corridor located outside the urban core. Following discussion, the group generally agreed that transit access should be removed as a prioritization factor and that user demand and connectivity may be more meaningful measures of project value.
The meeting concluded with a discussion regarding project implementation and long-term governance. Participants emphasized the importance of establishing a unified regional identity for the Rio Trail through branding, wayfinding, and marketing. Stakeholders noted that a strong brand could support tourism, economic development, public awareness, and future funding opportunities. Additional discussion focused on the importance of shade and user comfort, which emerged as a major theme through public outreach. Overall, participants agreed that the study represents a significant opportunity to create a shared vision and implementation framework that connects communities throughout the Rio Reimagined corridor and advances a cohesive regional trail network.
April 23, 2026
The purpose of the LGRC All Partners Meeting was to bring together partner agencies, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, community representatives, and technical experts to celebrate accomplishments, strengthen partnerships, and advance the shared vision for the Lower Gila River corridor. The meeting focused on key collaborative priorities including fire and flood mitigation, habitat enhancement, recreation and cultural resource preservation, community engagement, and river stewardship. Participants were also invited to share their connections to the river, learn about ongoing enhancement and monitoring efforts, and identify opportunities for future collaboration and investment throughout the corridor.
The LGRC All Partners Meeting served as a collaborative forum for stakeholders working to protect, restore, and activate the Lower Gila River corridor. The meeting opened with welcome remarks, introductions, and an update on accomplishments associated with the Collaborative’s Strategic Action Plan. Project leaders highlighted progress made toward implementing LGRC priorities and strengthening regional partnerships that support long-term river conservation and community benefits.
A major theme of the meeting focused on the relationship between local communities and the river. Presentations explored community perspectives on the river corridor, the role of active transportation in improving access and connectivity, and the cultural and historic significance of the river to surrounding communities. Discussions reinforced the importance of preserving the river’s heritage while expanding opportunities for recreation, education, and public engagement.
Technical presentations highlighted ongoing scientific and ecological efforts occurring throughout the corridor. Participants learned about floodplain enhancement practices, MAG Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study updates, innovative vegetation monitoring techniques using drone technology, and the development of geographic information systems (GIS) resources intended to improve data sharing and support collaborative decision-making. These discussions emphasized the importance of science-based planning and monitoring to guide restoration, habitat enhancement, and resilience initiatives.
The afternoon portion of the meeting focused on partnership expansion and future collaboration opportunities. Presenters shared examples of community-based initiatives and educational programs that support environmental stewardship and public involvement. Breakout discussions encouraged participants to identify new partnerships, coordinate future projects, and discuss strategies for implementing the long-term vision for the Lower Gila River corridor. The meeting concluded with a forward-looking discussion regarding future priorities, implementation needs, and actions required to achieve the Collaborative’s vision.
Key Takeaways
- Partners expressed strong support for continued collaboration to advance environmental, recreational, and cultural goals along the Lower Gila River corridor.
- Scientific monitoring, floodplain enhancement, and habitat restoration remain critical components of future river stewardship efforts.
- Active transportation and recreational access were identified as important strategies for connecting communities to the river while promoting public appreciation of natural resources.
- Expanding partnerships and sharing technical resources will help accelerate implementation of corridor-wide projects.
- Continued engagement with communities, organizations, and regional partners will be essential to achieving the long-term vision established through the LGRC Strategic Action Plan.
April 20, 2026
The Sun Corridor Trail Meeting focused on opportunities to coordinate the Sun Corridor Trail initiative with the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study and other regional trail planning efforts. Participants discussed the vision for a connected statewide trail network and explored how the Rio Reimagined corridor could serve as a key urban segment linking the Salt River, Gila River, Maricopa Trail, Sun Circle Trail, (Central Arizona Project) CAP Trail, and other regional recreation corridors. Discussion emphasized regional connectivity, recreation, tourism, economic development, environmental stewardship, and active transportation while identifying partnership opportunities that could support future implementation of a seamless trail network across Arizona.
The Sun Corridor Trail is a proposed 1,500-mile multi-use trail stretching from the Mexican border in southern Arizona to Las Vegas, Nevada. Overseen by the Sun Corridor Trail Alliance, the trail is designed to support activities such as hiking, running, horseback riding, and “credit card touring,” a style of lightweight bike travel that incorporates stays at local lodging and dining establishments.
Discussion emphasized the history and purpose of the Sun Corridor Trail initiative, including its origins as a concept to connect trail systems within Maricopa and Pima counties through a broader statewide framework. Participants reviewed the benefits of regional trail systems and discussed how interconnected trail networks can improve recreation access, expand active transportation opportunities, support public health, enhance community connectivity, and stimulate tourism and economic development. The meeting highlighted the importance of creating seamless trail experiences that connect communities, destinations, parks, open spaces, and natural resources across jurisdictional boundaries.
June 9, 2026
The Rio Reimagined Task Force Meeting on June 9, 2026 focused on advancing the organizational structure, governance framework, and regional coordination necessary to implement the Rio Reimagined vision across the 90-mile river corridor. A primary topic was the development of a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, with discussions centered on establishing governance structures, long-term operational sustainability, fundraising capabilities, and coordination between ASU, local governments, tribal partners, and private-sector stakeholders.
The Task Force also reviewed progress on the Rio Reimagined Regional Vision Plan, including feedback received from city, county, and tribal managers during a May 2026 briefing. Members expressed support for advancing the foundational framework developed by the Vision Plan Scoping Committee, representing an important milestone toward creating a unified regional strategy for river corridor revitalization.
Additional updates were provided on the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Plan, highlighting proposed multimodal trail connections, safety improvements, and enhanced access between surrounding neighborhoods and the Salt and Gila river corridors. Participants emphasized the importance of integrating cultural, civic, and placemaking elements into future projects, including initiatives that celebrate Indigenous heritage, local history, and community identity along the riverfront.
The meeting also included discussion of municipal policy initiatives, particularly the City of Phoenix’s Rio Salado District planning efforts, and how land use policies, environmental restoration, and development strategies can support the broader goals of Rio Reimagined. Overall, the meeting reinforced regional commitment to coordinated planning, environmental stewardship, community connectivity, cultural preservation, and long-term implementation of the Rio Reimagined vision.
Community Workshop Meetings
The Community Workshop Meetings were designed to serve as a key component of the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study’s public engagement program, providing an interactive forum where residents, stakeholders, corridor users, and community partners could collaborate in shaping the future of the Salt and Gila river corridors. The workshops were intended to move beyond traditional public meetings by creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue, hands-on participation, and two-way communication between the project team and the communities that will ultimately use and benefit from the active transportation network.
The primary purpose of the workshops was to educate participants about the Rio Reimagined initiative and the Active Transportation Study while gathering valuable input on community needs, priorities, and aspirations. Because the study encompasses approximately 90 miles of river corridor across multiple jurisdictions, the workshops helped participants understand both the regional significance of the project and how future improvements could enhance connectivity, recreation, mobility, and access within their own communities. Educational displays, project exhibits, maps, and interactive tools were utilized to communicate project goals and create informed discussions about the future of the corridor.
The Community Workshop Meetings also served an important role in fostering regional collaboration and building support for a shared vision. Because Rio Reimagined involves multiple cities, agencies, tribal communities, organizations, and stakeholders, the workshops provided a venue where participants could discuss common priorities and identify opportunities that benefit the broader region. By bringing together diverse perspectives, the workshops helped establish a collective understanding of how a connected active transportation network can support recreation, economic development, environmental enhancement, community health, and regional mobility.
May 19, 2026
ASU Novus Center, Tempe, Arizona
The community workshop featured a combination of informational displays, digital tools, and hands-on engagement activities that encouraged participants to explore the study area and provide meaningful feedback. Project team members presented an overview of the study, including proposed corridor alignments, key destinations, existing and planned trail connections, and the broader vision for creating a connected regional active transportation network. A detailed StoryMap and other digital resources were available to help participants better understand the project corridor and its opportunities.
The workshop also included an interactive exercise that asked participants to prioritize project themes and recommendations. These results reinforced strong community interest in environmental stewardship, climate resilience, regional connectivity, recreation access, and economic development benefits associated with the Rio Reimagined corridor.
Key Takeaways
The workshop demonstrated strong community support for enhancing access to the Rio Reimagined corridor while preserving and celebrating its natural environment. The highest-priority goal identified by participants was Protect and Connect People to Nature, indicating a clear desire for projects that improve access to river corridors, open spaces, and recreational destinations while supporting environmental stewardship.
Participants also expressed strong support for climate-responsive planning and design, with “Design for Climate” receiving the second-highest number of votes. This feedback suggests that community members value investments that improve resilience, incorporate shade and cooling strategies, enhance habitat, and address environmental challenges associated with the region’s desert climate.
Another major theme was the importance of creating a seamless and connected regional corridor. Participants prioritized establishing continuous trail and active transportation connections that link communities, destinations, parks, cultural resources, and employment centers across the Rio Reimagined study area. The desire for a connected regional network was one of the strongest messages from the workshop.
Interest in developing the corridor as a regional destination and economic asset was also evident. Votes supporting the goals of creating a regional destination and supporting economic growth reflected recognition that the corridor can provide recreational, tourism, cultural, and economic benefits while serving as a major regional amenity.
The workshop’s interactive Story Map activity helped identify important community destinations, desired connections, and areas where improved access is needed. Participants were able to place destination markers and indicate where they lived, providing valuable geographic input that will help inform future planning and investment priorities.
Summary Themes
- Protect and enhance natural resources while improving public access
- Incorporate climate resilience and sustainable design into future projects
- Create a seamless, connected regional active transportation corridor
- Develop the corridor as a regional destination that supports recreation and economic vitality
- Improve connections to community destinations, trails, parks, and cultural resources
- Continue providing multiple engagement opportunities through both in-person and virtual outreach methods
May 20, 2026
City of Avondale Visitor Center
The workshop offered residents and stakeholders an opportunity to review study information and provide direct input on project goals and corridor opportunities. The project team presented informational boards and digital resources, including a project introduction, an overall alignment map showing destinations and trails, and the project story map website. These materials helped participants understand the study area, proposed active transportation connections, and the broader vision for improving access to the Rio Reimagined corridor.
The workshop included several interactive engagement stations intended to make participation accessible and hands-on. Participants used physical maps to identify destinations, mark home locations, and provide input on access points and places of interest within the Rio Reimagined project area. The event also included a dot-ocracy activity that invited participants to prioritize project goals, helping the study team better understand which outcomes resonated most strongly with attendees.
Overall, the meeting provided a transparent and interactive forum for sharing information, answering questions, and collecting public feedback on the Rio Reimagined Active Transportation Study. The input gathered through mapping exercises, goal prioritization, conversations with staff, and online outreach helped inform the study team’s understanding of community priorities for safety, connectivity, destination-making, environmental stewardship, climate-responsive design, and improved access to the Rio Reimagined corridor.
May 21, 2026
Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center, Phoenix, Arizona
The workshop utilized a combination of informational exhibits, digital tools, and interactive engagement activities to encourage public participation. Project team members presented an overview of the study, including corridor alignments, trail connections, major destinations, and the project’s long-term vision for creating a connected active transportation network across the region. Participants were also able to review the project StoryMap website and other digital resources that provided additional information about the study area and planning process.
The workshop incorporated a dot-ocracy exercise to help identify community priorities for the Rio Reimagined corridor. These results highlighted strong community interest in environmental stewardship, regional destination development, climate-responsive design, and improved access to the river corridor.
Key Takeaways
The Community Workshop highlighted a strong desire among participants to strengthen connections between people and the natural environment. The highest-ranked community priority was Protect and Connect People to Nature, demonstrating broad support for projects that improve access to the river corridor while preserving and enhancing natural resources.
Participants also emphasized the importance of creating the Rio Reimagined corridor as a regional destination that attracts residents and visitors while connecting neighborhoods, parks, trails, cultural destinations, and recreational assets throughout the study area. Support for this goal reflected interest in developing the corridor as both a transportation and recreational resource.
Climate-responsive planning and environmental stewardship emerged as another major theme. The goals of Design for Climate and Address Climate received significant support, indicating that participants value sustainable design approaches that improve resilience, habitat quality, shade, and environmental health along the river corridor.
The interactive mapping activities provided valuable input regarding desired destinations, access points, and areas of interest throughout the corridor. Participants identified places they regularly visit and locations they would like to see better connected through future trail and active transportation investments.
Overall, the Audubon workshop indicated that the community’s priorities center on:
- Protecting and enhancing natural resources and ecological assets
- Improving public access to the rivers and open spaces
- Creating a connected, regionally significant trail and active transportation corridor
- Incorporating climate resilience and sustainable design practices
- Supporting recreation, tourism, and economic development opportunities associated with the Rio Reimagined corridor