By Jon Johnson
Safford — Graham County is moving forward with ambitious plans to transform a dilapidated pond at the fairgrounds into a dynamic community destination. Residents are invited to share their input at a special public meeting on Monday, June 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Assembly Room at the Graham County General Services Building, 921 W. Thatcher Blvd. in Safford.
The conceptual plan centers on revitalizing the area around the ponds at the fairgrounds. Improvements would include enhanced amenities below the upper pond and a complete reimagining of the lower pond site as a vibrant “Action Park.”
Graham County Manager Dustin Welker emphasized the importance of community involvement, particularly as the county pursues a significant grant through Arizona State Parks.
“Graham County is in the process of applying for a large grant through Arizona State Parks, and one of the requirements is to have a public meeting for feedback on a conceptual plan,” Welker told the Gila Herald. “The project would consist of improving the area below the upper pond that currently has gazebos and old playground equipment. The plan would be to create sidewalks, lawns, and new playground equipment in that area. To the east is a hill that we would like to incorporate slides and climbing walls… Also in the plan is to drain the lower pond, which has been inefficient in watering and difficult to maintain because of the shallow depths and the large amount of evaporation. We would like to replace it with a pump track for BMX bikes and keep the island look with bridges, climbing walls, and other adventure-type amenities.”
Welker added that the county is looking forward to receiving input from community members on how to proceed with the space.
“We would love a big turnout from the community to provide feedback and other ideas to incorporate into the plan,” he said.
During a recent economic development meeting, Welker highlighted additional exciting features planned for the site, including new recreational opportunities that address long-standing maintenance challenges while adding fresh attractions for families and youth.
“We’re also looking at doing that in the lower pond. Uh, we’ve had trouble with it for years, and unfortunately, we’re going to drain it and no longer use it,” Welker explained. “It hasn’t been efficient; we lose a lot of water through seepage and evaporation. But we’re going to fill it up with some really cool things called an action park . . . We’re looking at doing a pump track with bicycles . . . We want to bring some stuff in that doesn’t already exist . . .”
He also noted future phases could include additional sports fields in response to requests from groups like KYSO and Little League.
The June 1 public meeting will give residents a chance to view conceptual designs, ask questions, and offer suggestions to help refine the project. County leaders hope for strong attendance so the final plan reflects the community’s vision and needs.
“This is a great opportunity to create something unique for Graham County families and visitors,” Welker said. “We have some great ideas… We hope anyone that is available can make it.”
Mark your calendar for Monday, June 1, 5–7 p.m. at the Graham County General Services Building. Your voice matters — come help shape the future of recreation in Graham County.
