In a significant move to support the rapidly growing East Valley, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has approved over $130,000 in funding for a range of community projects aimed at improving the quality of life for residents. This investment will enhance educational opportunities, improve outdoor recreational areas, and provide critical heat relief resources for the community.
“Over the past several years, the East Valley has undergone a significant period of growth and development that isn’t slowing down anytime soon,” said Vice Chairman Thomas Galvin, who represents District 2 on the Board of Supervisors. “To aid this continued expansion, Maricopa County is intentionally investing in projects that enable residents and their families to learn about our natural world, enjoy outdoor spaces, pursue an education, bolster their careers, and live healthy and fulfilling lives.”
The largest portion of this investment, approximately $100,000, will go towards the International Dark Sky Discovery Center in Fountain Hills. This funding will help create interactive exhibits and camps for school-aged children, as well as subsidize admission costs for residents of all ages. The Discovery Center aims to educate the public on the importance of dark skies for humans, animals, and plants, making it a unique and valuable resource in the Valley.
“We are so thankful to Supervisor Galvin and the Board for recognizing the importance of the STEM education and dark-sky preservation mission of the International Dark Sky Discovery Center,” said Joe Bill, President of the Discovery Center. “With the largest telescope in the Phoenix area, a planetarium, and much more, residents will have an amazing experience at this unique facility.”
In addition to educational investments, the Board has allocated $10,000 for much-needed signage improvements at the Hawes Trail System in the Tonto National Forest. These funds will be used to install new signs at trailheads and intersections, enhancing the experience and safety for bikers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. “Our hope is that this new and improved signage will help Maricopa County residents and visitors be safer and more informed while exploring this beautiful trail system,” said Grant Taylor, Co-Founder of the Hawes Trail Alliance.
Recognizing the importance of early education, Maricopa County is also investing $8,000 in the Early Childhood Education program at the East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) in Mesa. These funds will support the development of curriculum, provide supplemental resources, and assist in training future educators. “This funding will help ensure our students have access to resources and materials needed for their training,” said Superintendent Dr. Chad Wilson of EVIT. “Thank you to Supervisor Galvin and the Board for recognizing the importance of early childhood education.”
As part of the county’s ongoing efforts to address the dangers of extreme heat, additional funding has been allocated to provide critical heat relief supplies for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This includes portable evaporative coolers, cooling vests, and durable medical equipment, ensuring that vulnerable populations remain safe during Arizona’s sweltering summers. “These supplies will play a vital role in keeping seniors and folks with disabilities cool and safe in the case of an HVAC emergency,” said Jayson Matthews, Interim Director of Maricopa County’s Human Services Department.
Finally, the Board has allocated $3,000 towards the purchase of dog shoes and leashes for heat relief centers, helping to keep pets cool and safe during the hottest months of the year.
These projects are funded through Maricopa County Community Solutions Funding, a program designed to advance the county’s strategic goals and provide clear public benefits. Through these investments, Maricopa County is taking proactive steps to support its growing communities and ensure a high quality of life for all residents.
