At the May AALC monthly meeting, members Jan Hancock from the Maricopa Park & Trails Association and Eileen Baden of Maricopa County Parks & Recreation, presented an update to the efforts done towards the Sun Corridor Trail Action Plan and the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).
About the Sun Corridor Trail Action Plan (SCTA Plan)
The process to develop the Sun Corridor Trail was begun as a grassroots effort to improve outdoor recreation opportunities throughout Arizona. Technical assistance was received from the National Park Service Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program and Arizona State University Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Innovation in 2020 to guide the formalization and long-term success of this effort. This assistance provided guidance on organizing and formalizing a state-wide nonprofit to coordinate and advocate for the planning, development, and long-term stewardship of the Sun Corridor Trail. Bylaws, articles of incorporation, and an Action Plan were developed.
To view the SCTA Action Plan, visit: www.americantrails.org/resources/sun-corridor-trail-alliance-action-plan
The Maricopa & Sun Circle Trail Map can be viewed here: https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/assets/1/6/regional-trail-11×171.pdf
About the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP Plan)
The SCORP outreach included a survey of more than 5,000 selected Arizona households to collect information and understand park and recreation user interests and experiences. The plan included work with ASU & 77 stakeholders across the state with missions related to outdoor recreation and private/for-profit interests. Overall feedback included environmental concerns and wildlife connectivity as well as increasing equitable access for different population groups, such as including park access through the Cultural Pass program offered by many libraries.
To learn about the SCORP, visit azstateparks.com