Marana named the state's fifth safest city

Marana made the list of safest cities in Arizona by Safewise

The Town of Marana was named one of the top-10 safest cities in Arizona by safewise.com, ranking 5th overall. That is up from No. 6 in the previous rankings.

The Town scored particularly well in terms of violent crime, with just 0.89 violent crimes per 1,000 residents. In the previous rankings Marana had 0.93 violent crimes per 1,000 residents. The national average is 4.49 per 1,000 citizens.

Marana only had 26.24 property crimes per 1,000 residents.

To determine the safest cities in Arizona, safewise.com reviewed the 2017 FBI crime report statistics and population data.

Their evaluation is based on the number of reported violent crimes (aggravated assault, murder, rape, and robbery) in each city. If there was a tie, we also factored in the number of property crimes (burglary, arson, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft). To level the playing field, we calculated the rate of crimes per 1,000 people in each city. This makes it easier to directly compare the likelihood of these crimes occurring in cities with vastly different populations.

See the full list.

Traffic Alert: Thornydale Beautification milling update

The Ina/Thornydale Intersection will be milled on Wednesday, March 20./Google Maps

Milling work will begin at the Ina Road and Thornydale Road intersection and adjacent side streets the week of March 18.

Beginning Monday March 18 Meredith Blvd, Firestone Alley, Juniper Road, and Ulene Place will be milled in preparation for final pave.

Oldfather Road will be milled on Tuesday March 19.

The Ina/Thornydale intersection will be milled on Wednesday March 20. Milling on Ina Road and Thornydale Road will happen between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. in an effort to minimize impacts during rush hour. Expect heavy delays.

Milling to be done at Ina/Thornydale and on Meredith Blvd.

Milling work on Ulene Pl, Oldfather Road, Juniper Road, and Firestone Alley.

Pavement assessment beginning on Monday, March 18

A van with special equipment will be analyzing Marana roads.

The Town of Marana is committed to having the best possible roads. This goal led to the creation of the Town’s Pavement Preservation Program, which strives to preserve Town roadways on regular basis.

A van will help assess Marana roadways beginning Monday, March 18.

The Town has been collecting pavement condition data and prioritizing project selection for pavement preservation since 2009. Six years ago, the Town created a six-year pavement preservation program.  The program is in its last year of implementation.

As the pavement preservation program was developed in-house, it has evolved over the years to take advantage of advances in computing capabilities as well as changes in pavement preservation philosophy. The most notable latest advancement is the move to prioritize projects based on “life cycle cost concept.” In an effort to best prioritize projects and properly manage resources, the Town roadways will be undergoing a pavement assessment beginning on Monday, March 18. This will not only allow the Town to develop long-term maintenance plans and budgets, but also help guide Town staff into “applying the right treatment, to the right road, at the right time, and right cost.” This will allow the Town to best utilize their resources, while also providing the best possible driving surfaces.

“The pavement assessment will help the Town in initiating cost-effective decisions relative to the “what,” “where,” and “when” in terms of pavement maintenance and rehabilitation,” said Town of Marana Public Works Director Mo El-Ali. “What treatment is cost-effective; where are the treatments needed; and when is the best time to program a treatment?”

Special vans with cameras on the bumper will analyze Marana’s roads.

To conduct the pavement assessment, the Town of Marana will utilize IMS Infrastructure Management Services LLC, to complete a detailed inventory and condition rating of all roadways and collect right-of-way assets. The data will be collected and loaded into an asset management program specifically designed to assist the Town in developing a long-term pavement preservation program.  

The field surveys are completed in two phases using specialized surveying equipment.

The first phase will begin on March 18 and last two weeks. This initial phase will inventory and collect pavement performance data using a device known as a Laser Road Surface Tester or RST. This device measures pavement roughness, rutting, cracking and other surface distresses as it travels down the roadway. It will also be used to collect digital video and Global Positioning Satellite (GPS} information for cataloging right of way assets.

The RST is a one-ton Ford van with 4 inside mounted cameras and GPS receivers and a modified front bumper. Operated by three field technicians, the RST travels at posted speed limits and will survey each roadway at least once.

Ina Road opens over I-10 in Marana as interchange nears completion

Ina Road bridge construction/Courtesy ADOT

Ramps connecting with I-10 expected to open in next few weeks

Ina Road has opened over Interstate 10 in Marana, a major step toward completing a modern traffic interchange that is one of the Tucson area’s largest road projects in years.

Early Thursday, traffic began taking Ina Road over I-10 and the Union Pacific Railroad tracks. While work continues in other areas of the project, one lane of Ina Road will be available in each direction and the speed limit will be 25 mph.

Ramps connecting Ina Road with I-10 are expected to open in the next few weeks. The final pieces of the project – widening Ina Road from I-10 west to the Santa Cruz River and connecting with a new bridge over the river – will be completed later this spring. Ina Road is open throughout that area of the project. 

Ina Road Bridge over I-10 is now open.

Before this $128 million project, Ina Road offered just two lanes under I-10, and drivers regularly had to wait for trains to pass. The new overpass will offer four lanes while eliminating the need to wait for trains, enhancing mobility and safety.

Improvements also include replacing a single two-lane Ina Road bridge over the Santa Cruz River with two bridges, doubling the road’s capacity west of I-10, and creating a bicycle path that connects with The Loop, a system of trails and bike routes in the Tucson area. Meanwhile, new technology will monitor traffic and allow ADOT engineers to adjust signal timing based on need.

ADOT is overseeing the improvements, which are funded by the Federal Highway Administration, the Pima Association of Governments and the Regional Transportation Authority. The town of Marana contributed $7.9 million toward the cost of the new Santa Cruz River bridges west of I-10.

Ina Road is the third major I-10 interchange replacement in Pima County. Projects at Prince Road and Twin Peaks have created overpasses that eliminated the need for drivers to wait for trains. A similar project at Ruthrauff Road is expected to begin this summer.

Manager's Message: Spring into March with the Town of Marana

Marana Municipal Complex.

Marana Town Manager Jamsheed Mehta provides a monthly Manager’s Message to the Marana News.

There’s much to look forward to during the month of March. March Madness, Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, Spring Equinox—and now Marana’s Community Conversations!

The Town of Marana will host three community meetings this month at various locations, and we encourage our residents to come and learn about new development and construction projects, parks and recreation programs and the fiscal year 2020 budget process. 

A lot of new projects are reaching completion. 

The Town regains access to Ina Road Interchange soon, and with it the freshly paved and landscaped Ina Road, complete with sidewalks and accessibility ramps. New businesses are opening everywhere, including the Hampton Inn & Suites at Marana Center, and the future Dutch Bros. and Serial Grillers located near the Interstate and Cortaro Road. The town is also busy working on capital improvement projects that will further prepare our community for continued growth, like the North Marana Drainage Study. 

Meeting attendees will learn about the latest residential and commercial growth reports, as well as the General Plan update that maps Marana’s future for the next twenty years.

This is a big year for Marana Parks and Recreation. Town staff begins the 10-year Master Plan study that will give the community a chance to assess its recreation needs and interests, and prioritize projects that are publicly supported, financially responsible and environmentally sound. National reports find that 85 percent of Americans consider high quality park amenities and community centers important factors when choosing a new place to live, and more than 90 percent of Americans agree parks and recreation is an important local government service.

By participating in the 10-year Master Plan process, the public can have an impact on future park developments. Learn more about this process at the Community Conversations events, as well as all the exciting parks and recreation programming happening this year near your neighborhood. 

Every year, the Town of Marana organizes an annual budget based on the priorities set by the Town Council. The annual budget serves as the funding plan for policies, goals, and service-levels provided to the citizens of Marana, and gives staff the authority to spend funds according to the policy goals set by Town Council. Citizen feedback plays an important role in this process, and members of the public are invited to attend the meetings to learn more about budget year 2020.

Community Conversations will be held Wednesday, March 13 at the Wheeler Taft Abbett Library (7800 N. Schisler Drive); Wednesday March 20 at The Highlands at Dove Mountain (4949 W. Heritage Club Blvd.); and Thursday, March 28 at the Town of Marana Police Department Community Room. (11555 W. Civic Center Drive). All three events begin at 6 p.m.

We look forward to seeing you! For more information, visit our event calendar at MaranaAZ.gov. 

Jamsheed Mehta is the Town of Marana Town Manager.

Marana News: Marana prepares for Founders’ Day

A Shriner gives a high five during the Marana Founders’ Day Parade.

The Marana News has a great preview of Founders' Day, which will take place on Saturday, March 30.

More than any other event in town, the Marana Founders’ Day celebrates local people and culture. And this year’s Founders’ Day celebration brings the cultural exploration to another level, by examining the past, present and future of the community. 

“We’re bringing in all the cultural groups that can point back to the people currently in Marana, and those who inhabited the area before us,” said Monique Hagberg, Town of Marana Special Events Coordinator. 

While every Founders’ Day celebration focuses on the history of Marana, the plan is for this year’s to look both forward and back; the festival features booths and exhibits displaying Marana’s history, including Native American history, a presentation from the Chinese Cultural Center, a performance by Ballet Folklorico Xochitl and more.

Members of the Anway family, celebrating 100 years since arriving in the Marana area, will serve as marshals for the Founders’ Day parade. 

“Founders’ Day, by its very terminology, is for anyone who helped develop the community,” said Marana Mayor Ed Honea, whose own family dates back multiple generations in the region. “And this year we’ll honor the Anway Family as founders of the community.” 

Read more about the parade, activities, vendors and more.

Coachline Boulevard Reconstruction – Twin Peaks to Silverbell

Between March 11 through March 22, 2019, the contractor will begin milling (remove existing pavement) and paving operations along Coachline Boulevard south of Twin Peaks Road and at the intersection of Continental Reserve Loop (north end) at Silverbell Road. This work schedule is dependent on weather. Rain may delay the operation.

During the week of March 18 – 22, Continental Loop Reserve will be closed at its intersection with Silverbell Road/Coachline Boulevard. This will allow the contractor to complete the work during the Spring Break holiday, thereby reducing impact to the traveling public:

• North and southbound through traffic at Continental Reserve Loop will not be permitted
  All southbound turn movements from Silverbell Road to Continental Reserve Loop will be restricted
  East and westbound travel on Silverbell Road will be maintained
  Northbound turn movements from Silverbell Road to Coachline Boulevard will be maintained
  Access to businesses will be maintained
  North and southbound traffic will be shifted as work progresses
  One travel-lane in each direction will be maintained
  Access to side streets will be intermittently impacted as work crews and equipment move through the area       
  Turn movements from Coachline Boulevard to both Twin Peaks and Silverbell roads will be   maintained
  REMINDER – Vehicles parked on Coachline Boulevard will be towed at owners’ expense
  Inclement weather or mechanical failure may impact this operation

*The new pedestrian crossing at Rivulet Drive will re-open after the final paving and striping operation is completed. 

For your safety and that of the contractor’s personnel, please comply with traffic control devices, flagging personnel, and/or detour signs.

 Travel time through the project area may increase during construction so please adjust your schedule accordingly. Construction may restrict traffic lanes and create congestion. Taking alternate routes is suggested. 

 If inclement weather or other events cause delays, the work may be rescheduled without further notice.

  Stay up-to-date on Town of Marana news, projects, and events. Visit MaranaAZ.gov, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

Expect traffic delays and lane closures in the areas highlighted in orange.

The Marana Police Department honors their best

2018 Marana Police Awards portrait.

On Wednesday, March 6th the Marana Police Department held their annual awards ceremony. The event recognized police officers, volunteers, and civilians who contributed to the mission of providing unparalleled service, unwavering protection, and uncompromised integrity.

Officer Randy Korth was named Officer of the Year, Jennifer Mangialardi was named Civilian of the Year, and Guy Shaw was named Volunteer of the Year. In addition, Officer Abel Samano and Officer Neil Jordan were promoted to sergeant, eight officers were sworn in to service, and members of the Town's Technology Services Department and Public Works Department were awarded Letters of Commendation for their work on the new police facility. 

Officer of the Year-recipient Officer Korth has continually displayed a high level of performance and commitment that greatly exceeds expectations for the Marana Police Department. As a Field Training Officer, he trains, guides, and mentors new police officers and recruits. He understands the importance of this role and the impact he has on their careers. He is actively involved in the development of the field training curriculum and evaluation process of the program.   

Korth continued his involvement as an instructor in advanced officer trainings, was the facilitator for the GOHS Warrant Grant, and scheduled a total of eight warrant sweep deployments throughout the year. In 2018, the GOHS Warrant Grant resulted in approximately 200 warrants being served totaling approximately $115,000 in bonds. 

Civilian of the Year-recipient Mangialardi won her award not only for her duties as the Administrative Supervisor to Police Chief Terry Rozema, but for her role in planning the annual awards ceremony and department Christmas party. This year, she undertook an endeavor to find a Marana family in need for MPD to adopt during the holidays. She coordinated the donation of toys, clothes, and money for a family comprised of a single mother and her four children living in a 400 square foot house in west Marana.

Shaw earned the Volunteer of the Year award for undertaking a number of roles in his six years as a volunteer. He most recently served as Treasurer  of the MPD VIP’s. This past year Shaw made significant contributions to the Marana Police Department by securing a $5000 grant from the Pima County Attorney’s Office for its Child Car Seat Program. He has been an instrumental organizer for the annual Pride 4 the Patch charity golf tournament, which has raised over thousands of dollars the past three years. This past year he volunteered over 415 hours.

Thirteen officers and civilian staff received the Citation of Excellence, including ten who dealt with a man brandishing a gun at the Starbucks at Arizona Pavilions. MPD was able to work with the store manager to discretely evacuate as many customers and employees as possible. Eventually the man was taken into custody without incident, but with the ever present potential of an active shooter, officers had to consistently evaluate the risk to the employees and public while assessing the situation. The coordinated efforts between the officers, dispatch, and Starbucks manager contributed to sound tactical decisions and evacuation that resulted in a peaceful resolution.  

For her efforts, Store Manager Teri Lewis was awarded a Chief’s Letter of Commendation.

Officer Caylee Baker received a Citation of Excellence for her role in apprehending a mail thief who was stealing and cashing checks from the mail. Officer Jared Voigt earned his Citation of Excellence for locating stolen jewelry, and not only returning it to the owner. LPO John Pathammavong received his Citation of Excellence for his training and mentoring of newer officers, especially those he was serving with on the midnight squad.

Officer Luis Magana and Officer Esteban Norzagaray were awarded the Life Saver Award for their actions last March when they were able to save the life of a man who attempted to commit suicide.

Officers Gave Tapia and Abel Samano were awarded the Medal of Valor for their roles in locating a bank robber who was deemed to be armed and dangerous. 

Dispatcher Sheila Blevins was awarded the Distinguished Service Award. She is responsible for the day-to-day operations of communications within the Marana Police Department. It is not uncommon for surrounding police agencies to call on Sheila for assistance and input for their communication and dispatching systems.  This past year, Sheila played a critical role in the Marana Police Department’s integration into PCWIN; which allows our dispatchers and officers to have radio interoperability with surrounding agencies in emergency situations. 

Officer Brian Neuman earned the Distinguished Service Award for his leadership. He is a General Instructor, Field Training Officer, Phlebotomist, and is HGN certified. He serves as an instructor for High Risk Stops for AOT. He continues to demonstrate his abilities as a knowledgeable officer, and completed the advanced accident reconstruction school through Northwestern University.  This has given him the opportunity to become a lead accident Reconstructionist for serious and fatal collisions 

Grace Neal has served over 29 years as a Marana Police Dispatcher and was awarded the . Distinguished Service Award.  During her career she has served in a variety of roles and has received numerous certifications and training.  Such roles have included; being a training dispatcher, Lead Dispatcher, and at times, has been appointed the acting supervisor of the unit. She has been awarded Dispatcher of the Year through the Association of Public Safety Communications.

Tina Destefano was awarded the Distinguished Service Award.  During her 23-year career as a Marana Police Dispatcher she has served in a variety of roles including; being a training dispatcher, Lead Dispatcher, and at times, has been appointed the acting supervisor of the unit. To this day she receives letters of appreciation from citizens who have appreciated her ability to communicate in a calming manner when they are in distress.  Tina was also awarded Dispatcher of the Year through the Association of Public Safety Communications. 

A pair of MPD Sergeants earned the Medal of Merit. Steve Johnson was awarded the medal for his role as a Homeland Security and Emergency Management expert, while Jose Alvarez was awarded the medal for his role in keeping illegal narcotics off the streets with the Street Level Squad of the Counter Narcotics Alliance. Over his three-year assignment at CNA, Sgt. Alvarez and the Street Level Squad was responsible for the seizure of over $173,000 and $134,000 worth of vehicles seized.

Officer Luis Magana and Officer Esteban Norzagaray were awarded the Life Saver Award for their actions last March when they were able to save the life of a man who attempted to commit suicide.

Officers Gave Tapia and Abel Samano were awarded the Medal of Valor for their roles in locating a bank robber who was deemed to be armed and dangerous.

Three members of the Town of Marana Technology Services Department and three members of the Town’s Facilities Management Division of the Public Works Department were awarded Commendation Letters for their work on the new Marana Police Facility. Mike Perez, Dan Bejarano, and  Joseph Mooney were the recipients from Technology Services, while Brendan O’Connor, Lee Boyett, and Jason Flood were honored from Facilities.

Cape Chase a Success + Photo Gallery

Marana Parks and Recreation held their first Cape Chase on Saturday and the event was a huge success. The first-of-its-kind superhero-adaptive fun run saw130 registered youth and their families participate, with some traveling from Phoenix to enjoy the event. 

Trumpet behavioral health sponsored and provided scholarships for a number of special needs students from Marana Unified School District. 

Families expressed so much gratitude and excitement, as they have very few adaptive options in the region. 

"You all did amazing," said Diana Salazar Garcia via Facebook. "Our family and friends had a marvelous time. Thank you." 

The Cape Chase is the latest in new programming created by the Marana Parks and Recreation staff in an effort to reach previously underserved portions of the community. In this case Cape Chase joins the Sensory Splash programs at the Marana Pool and the Gladden Farms Park Splash Pad in an effort to provide programs specifically for children with special needs.

Take the LINK For more information on these and other great Marana Parks and Recreation Programs.

Marana-based DAV office receives large donation

Representatives from Ricoh and the Tucson Disabled American Veterans pose for a photo during the ceremony to celebrate the donation of 15 printers.

On Wednesday, March 6 Chapter 4 of Tucson Disabled American Veterans received a donation of fifteen printers from the RICOH USA. The donation was conducted at the Marana location during a brief ceremony.

Joseph Campanella, Vice President RICOH USA, Federal Sales Division, Dan Ayer, Senior Manager, Federal Sales Division, and Bill Crow, Sr. Client Executive Federal Sales Division presented the printers. Accepting the donation on behalf of the DAV leadership was Kent Christofferson, Chapter 4 Commander and CW Hall, DAV Southern District Commander.

Councilwoman Patti Comerford attended the ceremony on behalf of the Town of Marana and was pleased to see more veterans in and around Marana benefit from the goodwill of the business community.

“I just think it is great to see businesses and corporations step up to the plate and help,” Comerford said. “Our veterans have done so much for us, so it is fantastic to see a corporation step up and provide something that can help make their lives better.”

The donation not only benefits the Tucson Chapter 4 DAV, but will be shared with several other DAV Chapters throughout the Tucson and Phoenix areas.

As a nonprofit, the DAV relies on donations to provide veteran services. The printers will aid in meeting the needs of the many disabled veterans who depend on the benefits assistance they receive from the DAV. The donation and support are valued at $35,000.

In 2014, the Military Order of the Purple Heart honored Marana with its highest distinction as a Purple Heart Town. That commitment includes a memorial at Mountain Vista High School, and the Arizona Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, as well as supporting a wide variety of veteran and military causes.

Ina Road Beautification Project update

Landscape work on Ina Road will conclude at the end of March.

The Town of Marana’s Ina Road Beautification Project is nearing completion. This project has been done in conjunction with the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Ina Interchange Project in an effort to improve portions of Ina Road not part of the ADOT project, including road resurfacing, safety improvements, and landscaping.

Provided is a synopsis of events that will be occurring on Ina Road and Aerie Road in the next two months. Please note that the dates provided are subject to change due to inclement weather conditions.

Landscaping:
Ina road landscaping west of Thornydale is nearing completion. Landscaping crews will begin work east of Thornydale beginning the week of March 11 and is anticipated to last until the end of March. Final rock mulch will be added west of Thornydale on March 19 and east of Thornydale at the beginning of April.

Mill and pave:
Milling work will begin on Town of Marana roads north of Ina Road on March 18 through March 21. Milling on Aerie Road will start March 25 and is expected to last for two days.

Paving will begin on Aerie Road on March 28 then proceed to all Town of Marana roads north of Ina Road beginning on April 11.

Ina Road mainline final pave will begin on April 22 and is anticipated to last through April 26. Expect heavy traffic delays during Ina road paving. Expect two weeks of localized lane restrictions for lane striping and utility adjustments after the completion of the final pave.

Street lights:
Streetlight pole installation will begin the week of May 20 and is expected to last for three weeks. The installation of the poles will involve limited lane closures in isolated areas. Traffic impacts are expected to be minimal.

Traffic signals:
Installation of hardware to ensure proper functioning of the traffic signals will begin at the Ina – Thornydale, Meredith and Oldfather intersections on March 25th through April 4. Expect daytime lane closures and shifts during work hours only.

Celebration:
Join the Town of Marana on May 4 at the Lowe’s Home Improvement Parking Lot for the kick-off ceremony for Ina Road Celebration Weekend. The event will feature a cake cutting ceremony and business festival.

USMC Nighthawk-72 Memorial Improvements

A Marine color guard participates in the ceremony to honor those who perished in the April 8, 2000 crash of a MV-22 Osprey Tilt rotor aircraft at the Marana Regional Airport.

Friends of Nighthawk-72 along with the Town of Marana and the Marana Regional Airport are making improvements to the existing roadside memorial that is located at the intersection of Avra Valley and Sandario Roads. The memorial honors those who perished in the April 8, 2000 crash of a MV-22 Osprey Tilt rotor aircraft at the Marana Regional Airport.

The improvements are scheduled to take place in two phases beginning March 16, 2019. The project is expected to be completed by April 2020.

Phase One: The existing memorial, flagpole and benches will be relocated slightly northeast of their current location. The new location is in-line with the actual crash site of the MV-22 Osprey Tilt rotor aircraft.

Phase Two: A sidewalk and pentagon area will be added that will have bronze markers of the 4 USMC units that were involved in the accident.

Skilled and unskilled volunteers are needed on March 16 to assist in the relocation of the memorial, and there will be more volunteer opportunities in the future.

Fundraising is being handled by Friends of Nighthawk-72, a non-profit organization working closely with
Nighthawk-72 Marana Detachment #1344 Marine Corps League, Town of Marana, and Marana Regional Airport.

The 19th Annual Memorial Service will be held April 6, 2019 at 10 am.

Once the existing memorial is moved and improvements are made, the goal is to transform the existing memorial into an official National Memorial and park.

For additional information or to volunteer contact: Terry Byron (520) 982-0023, FriendsOfNighthawk72@hotmail.com and www.FriendsOfNighthawk-72.org

Additional Background Information
The MV-22 Osprey Tilt rotor aircraft was conducting a training mission in support of Operational Evaluation (OPEVAL) when it went down at the Marana Regional Airport in Marana, Arizona on April 8, 2000. During the mission, the crew and Marines conducted Non-combatant Evacuation Operations (NEO) exercises as part of the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course, with Marines embarking and disembarking the aircraft. The mission was conducted at night utilizing night vision goggles and forward-looking infrared radar to enhance night operational capability. This mishap aircraft was part of the Multiservice Operational Test Team, based at Patuxent River, Maryland, but was temporarily attached to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron-1 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona.

The 19 Marines Lost are as follows:

3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division

Sgt. Jose Alvarez, 28                              Pfc. Gabriel C. Clevenger, 21                              Pfc. Alfred Corona, 23

Lance Cpl. Jason T. Duke, 28.                Lance Cpl. Jesus Gonzalez Sanchez, 27            Lance Cpl. Seth G. Jones, 18
2nd Lt. Clayton J. Kennedy, 24             Lance Cpl. Jorge A. Morin, 21                             Cpl. Adam C. Neely, 22     
Pfc. Kenneth O. Paddio, 23     Pfc. George P. Santos, 24                             Lance Cpl. Keoki P. Santos, 24
Cpl. Can Soler, 21                                   Pvt. Adam L. Tatro, 19

Marine Wing Communications Squadron 38, Marine Air Control Group 38

Cpl. Eric J. Martinez, 21

Marine Helicopter Squadron 1
Maj. John A. Brow, 39                             Maj. Brooks S. Gruber, 34                                   Cpl. Kelly S. Keith, 22

Marine Tilt-Rotor Training Squadron 204
Staff Sgt. William B. Nelson, 30

Marana Town Talk Episode 7: Chamber legacy, General Plan Update, Cape Chase Adaptive Fun Run

Town of Marana has released its seventh episode of "Marana Town Talk", a local government podcast that balances education and entertainment with thoughtful commentary on local current events. 

Communications Manager Vic Hathaway and Communications Specialist Brad Allis kick off the episode with outgoing President/CEO of the Marana Chamber of Commerce Ed Stolmaker (4:00). Ed talks about his impacts on the community and his plans after retirement, before handing the mic over to incoming President/CEO Audra Winters, who tells us what her plans are for the upcoming year. Next, they sat down with Senior Planner Cynthia Ross (11:45) to discuss the 2040 General Plan Update, and how the public’s involvement can make a difference in their community. Finally, they spent some time with Recreation Coordinator Kevin Goodrich (19:40) to talk about Cape Chase and other modified recreation experiences for participants with special needs.

Resources on this episode’s content:

• Marana Chamber of Commerce

• General Plan Update

• Cape Chase Adaptive Fun Run

Things to do in Marana for March and beyond

On The Horizon

Apr 6 - Free Music In Marana: Caiden Brewer
Apr 27-28 - Camping Under the Stars/Free Movie in Marana
May 4 - Ina Road Celebration Weekend​
May 4 - Free Music In Marana: Kate Becker
May 18 - Free Movie in Marana: Emoji Movie
Jun 1 - Free Music In Marana - The Drift
Jun 15 - Free Dive-In Movie - A Wrinkle In Time

Marana In The Media: Building An Oasis

Municipal Sewer and Water Magazine recently profiled the Town of Marana in their March 2019 edition: 

Few communities in America are more conscious of their water supply than Marana, Arizona.
 
Located a few miles northwest of Tucson along Interstate 10, Marana relies on Colorado River water through the Central Arizona Project(CAP), groundwater and reclaimed wastewater to deliver a reliable supply of high-quality water to its 8,000 customers.
 
The utility aggressively promotes conservation and recently received an award for participation in a forward-looking multicommunity project that will help reduce groundwater overdrafting across the region.
 
At the same time, it plans to build brand-new water treatment facilities to remove unregulated compounds from groundwater wells in two of its water systems.
 
“Water is critical here,” says John Kmiec, water director. “Our growth depends on it.”

Read The Full Story

Manager's Message: Cape Chase an all abilities event

Marana Parks and Recreation Director Jim Conroy provided the following Manager’s Message on the upcoming Cape Chase to the Marana News/Explorer News.

At Marana Parks and Recreation, we try to serve the diverse needs of our residents. We have events for the most elite athletes to those just beginning their fitness journey. We offer classes to enrich the mind, and we provide training to those just starting their first jobs as a baby sitter or lifeguard. 

Now, we are proud to expand our programming to serve our special needs community. 

The Town of Marana is excited to bring the first Marana Cape Chase Adaptive Fun Run to the community Saturday, March 9 at Ora Mae Harn Park (13250 N. Lon Adams Road). This non-competitive course is designed for tots, youth, teens, families and participants with disabilities who seek adventure and want to stay active.

When we assessed our programming last year, we realized we could bring great recreational opportunities to this previously underserved segment of the population. We began our sensory splash classes at both the Marana Pool and the Splash Pad in Marana, which are designed as a safe, positive and exclusive aquatic and social “meet up” experience for individuals with special needs.

After seeing the success of our sensory splash programs, we began exploring more ideas. We took inspiration from other communities and came up with the Cape Chase Fun Run. Like our other races, this event has a fun theme, and participants are encouraged to dress up as their favorite super hero. 

The Cape Chase is a sensory obstacle course perfectly suited for a variety of young competitors, no matter what their challenges may be. Dodge speed bumps, navigate the bubble pit, traverse through the pool noodle pass, and explore the cone maze. 

There are eight different obstacles, but staggered start times mean that no one has to worry about going too fast or too slow while navigating the course. 

We expect our park to be filled with super heroes March 9. Not only do the first 200 participants get their very own cape, but we have it on good authority that several super hero guests will be turning Ora Mae Harn Park into their own Hall of Justice. 

Reveal your secret superhero identities and conquer this adaptive fun run in Marana. Sign up now. Visit maranaAZ.gov/recreation.

Jim Conroy is the Marana Parks and Recreation Director.

Traffic Alert: Coachline Boulevard Reconstruction Curb Removal/Concrete Work

Curb Removal and Various Concrete Work

On Wednesday, February 27, 2019 the Town of Marana and its contractor will begin work to remove and replace areas of failing curb and various other concrete work installations on Coachline Boulevard, from Twin Peaks Road north to Silverbell Road

• The contractor will complete work along the northbound side of Coachline Boulevard first and then work on the southbound side of the roadway.

• Traffic will be shifted around the work area.

• Bike lanes will be closed. Cyclist should use an alternate route when possible.

• Access to residential areas will be maintained.

• Work is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, February 27, 2019 (weather permitting) and is expected to take approximately two-months to complete.

For your safety and that of the contractor’s personnel, please comply with traffic control devices, flagging personnel, and/or detour signs.

 Travel time through the project area may increase during construction so please adjust your schedule accordingly. Construction may restrict traffic lanes and create congestion. Taking alternate routes is suggested.

 If inclement weather or other events cause delays, the work may be rescheduled without further notice.

 Stay up-to-date on Town of Marana news, projects, and events. Visit MaranaAZ.gov, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

Make Marana 2040: Map Atlas

Download a PDF of the above graphic.

UPDATE: Overnight lane closures set for Interstate 10 near Ina Road Feb. 23, Feb. 26

Allow extra time as I-10 is narrowed to one lane in each direction

Motorists who use Interstate 10 near Ina Road should expect lane closures the nights of Feb. 23 and Feb. 26.

On Saturday, Feb, 23, eastbound I-10 will be reduced to a single lane between Cortaro and Sunset roads from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning. Crews will shift eastbound traffic to the inside lanes by the time all lanes re-open to traffic.

On Tuesday, Feb. 26, westbound I-10 will be reduced to a single lane between Sunset and Cortaro roads from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning for barrier work.

Drivers should proceed through the work zone with caution, slow down and watch for construction personnel and equipment.

Schedules are subject to change based on weather and other unforeseen factors. For more information, please call the ADOT Bilingual Project Information Line at 855.712.8530 or go to azdot.gov/contact and select Projects from the drop-down menu. For real-time highway conditions statewide, visit ADOT's Traveler Information Site at www.az511.gov, follow ADOT on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) or call 511, except when driving.

Traffic Alert: Coachline Boulevard Reconstruction POSTPONED

The asphalt milling operation scheduled to begin this week, and the paving operation scheduled for the week of February 25 through March 1, along the two southbound lanes and one northbound (curb) lane of Coachline Boulevard between Silverbell Road and the recently repaired low water crossing area, has been postponed.

Postponement is due to inclement weather with additional forecasted rain through the week. The milling andpaving operations will be rescheduled for a later date. 

New details for the milling and paving operation will be provided prior to work beginning.

For your safety and that of the contractor’s personnel, please comply with traffic control devices, flagging personnel, and/or detour signs.

 Travel time through the project area may increase during construction so please adjust your schedule accordingly. Construction may restrict traffic lanes and create congestion. Taking alternate routes is suggested.

 If inclement weather or other events cause delays, the work may be rescheduled without further notice.

  Stay up-to-date on Town of Marana news, projects, and events. Visit MaranaAZ.gov, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

During the week of February 18, 2019, the contractor will begin operations to mill (remove existing pavement) and pave portions of Coachline Boulevard south of Twin Peaks Road. 

Work will occur along the two southbound lanes and one northbound (curb) lane of Coachline Boulevard between Silverbell Road and the recently repaired low water crossing area.

• North and southbound traffic will be shifted as work progresses

• Access to side streets will be intermittently impacted as work crews and equipment move through the area

• This phase of the milling and paving operation is scheduled to be completed by March 1, 2019

• REMINDER – Vehicles parked on Coachline Boulevard will be towed at owners’ expense

• Inclement weather or mechanical failure may impact this operation

 The new pedestrian crossing at Rivulet Drive will re-open after the final paving and striping operation is completed. Weather permitting, paving of this section of Coachline Boulevard is expected to be complete by mid-to-late March 2019. For your safety and that of the contractor’s personnel, please comply with traffic control devices, flagging personnel, and/or detour signs.

 Travel time through the project area may increase during construction so please adjust your schedule accordingly. Construction may restrict traffic lanes and create congestion. Taking alternate routes is suggested.

 If inclement weather or other events cause delays, the work may be rescheduled without further notice.

Stay up-to-date on Town of Marana news, projects, and events. Visit MaranaAZ.gov, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.