Speak Up: West Valley city plans for massive park on flood control land

The city of Surprise is one step closer to taking over operations of the McMicken Dam to create a large nature park on 3,500 acres after the City Council voted to accept an intergovernmental agreement with the Flood Control District of Maricopa County. The dam was built more than 70 years ago as a protection of Luke Air Force Base and to keep area agriculture from flooding. It provides flood protection for portions of Surprise, El Mirage and unincorporated county land.

• “The White Tanks are within minutes. Are there not enough parks that are rarely used? The Grand resides on the entire east side of this proposed park and has had little input on the potential impact of this project. With the entire desert at our doorstep, why is this necessary?” — Doug Fischer via NextDoor
• “How does the city plan to protect the dam from damage? Surprise has already become a nightmare.” — Diana Sheriff via NextDoor
• “If nothing else, it will keep developers from building more homes or warehouses.” — Paula Davis via NextDoor
• “Hmmmm-park, even if it’s left in its natural state, vs. thousands more houses. Seems like a no-brainer to me.” — Larelle Heyl via NextDoor
• “Why not leave it in its natural state and open for winter and spring hiking only?” — Patricia Tusay via NextDoor
• “Just more tax money we got to pay out.” — Michael Divine via NextDoor
• “If it must be done, lots of shade trees, areas for those who walk all seasons, and maybe tarp-like covers, cool benches to sit on, restroom facilities, maybe a water pad, picnic areas that are also covered. More than just another park in the community, a place for everyone and every age.” — Maria Santiago via NextDoor
• “Hopefully this will get done. There are so many residences now in our vicinity we desperately need to have some finite place to be without houses, businesses, etc. Just desert and growing things Yeah!” — Bill Underwood via NextDoor
• “I wish they would put in an indoor track for people to walk during all those hot months! Also maybe a side track to walk their dogs!” — Peggy J. via NextDoor