The Buckeye City Council has approved a 20-year agreement with Maricopa County to manage the Joe Foss Shooting Range at Buckeye Hills Regional Park. The City of Buckeye will take over operations on Jan. 1, with plans to reopen the range to the public in the fall of 2025.

The range has been closed since early July 2024 after the expiration of the Special Use Agreement with the previous operator. The new Intergovernmental Agreement, approved unanimously by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, grants the City of Buckeye exclusive management rights for the range. The City will oversee both law enforcement training and public use of the facility.

“We heard loud and clear: people want this range back open to the public as soon as possible. But look, we had to do it right,” stated Steve Gallardo, who represents the district where the range is located, expressed support for the agreement. Gallardo added that partnering with the City of Buckeye ensures a long-term solution for managing the facility and providing stability in its operations.

Under the terms of the agreement, the City of Buckeye will be responsible for the range’s operation, maintenance, and necessary improvements to meet safety requirements. The range will be open to the public at least three days a week.

“I appreciate the City of Buckeye’s willingness to step up and manage this valuable public asset within the city’s planning area and the county’s park system. Maricopa County Parks and Recreation has worked diligently over the last several months to identify and make needed repairs to the range, and we are confident it is in good condition for law enforcement training and, eventually, public use,” stated Clint Hickman, county supervisor who represents district four. 

The range, which opened in 2009, has served as both a public shooting facility and a training site for law enforcement. Since its closure, Maricopa County Parks has been working to address repairs and ensure the range is prepared for future use.

Once reopened, the Joe Foss Shooting Range will be available for both recreational shooters and law enforcement personnel. The City of Buckeye will manage staffing and determine operational hours.

“The Joe Foss Shooting Range adds another exceptional recreational amenity for our residents while supporting the outdoor adventure goals outlined in our Parks and Recreation Master Plan," stated  Eric Orsborn, Buckeye mayor. "This facility provides a safe and controlled environment for recreational shooters, helping preserve our deserts and ensuring a more responsible use of outdoor spaces.”

Visit buckeyeaz.gov/joefoss for more information on the range’s reopening.