PHX Reporter

The Flood Control District of Maricopa County Board of Directors has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the City of Surprise. This agreement allows the city to develop and revitalize parts of the McMicken Dam Impoundment Area and Outlet Channel property, located northwest of Arizona State Route 303. The City plans to utilize this district-owned land for recreational park facilities and open spaces as part of its Parks and Recreation Master Plan and General Plan.

"Since the 1950s, McMicken Dam has played a critically important role in protecting Luke Air Force Base and surrounding cities, towns, and agricultural land from dangerous flooding," said Supervisor Clint Hickman, representing District 4 on the Flood Control District Board. "Through this MOU with the City of Surprise, Maricopa County is reimagining the dam's purpose beyond flood water collection to also include facilities and outdoor areas that nearby residents can enjoy with their families."

The district recently completed Phase 1 construction in a five-phase project aimed at rehabilitating the McMicken Dam Project. Upon completion, this project will extend the dam's service life by 100 years. The first three phases focus on various developments:

- Phase 1: Active park facilities added between Sun Valley Parkway and Greenway Road; natural space added between Grand Avenue and Peoria Avenue.

- Phase 2: Natural open space installation east of Grand Avenue.

- Phase 3: Construction of active park facilities west of Grand Avenue and near the McMicken Dam Emergency Spillway.

The new park will connect with the Maricopa Trail, a 315-mile trail linking hikers and bikers to major regional parks in metro Phoenix. As West Valley grows rapidly, developing outdoor recreation spaces reflects Surprise's commitment to enhancing residents' quality of life.

"The Flood Control District is excited to work with the City of Surprise on this great amenity for the community," stated Paul Baughman, Chief Engineer and General Manager for Maricopa County's Flood Control District. "Partnerships like this one allow our flood control structures to be used every day of the year, not just during significant rain events."

While managing the McMicken Dam Project remains under district jurisdiction, all property related to it is owned by them. The City will coordinate park improvements with county officials to ensure protection for flood water collection purposes while prioritizing visitor safety.

“This is an exciting moment in Surprise," expressed Councilmember Chris Judd from Surprise. "I am proud to be a part of this initiative that brings Maricopa County and the City together in partnership to create a vibrant multi-use recreation area." He emphasized their commitment not only towards enhancing community well-being but also preserving natural beauty.

Originally constructed by U.S Army Corps Engineers back in1956 primarily protecting Luke Air Force Base along with other key infrastructures against floods; today’s dam provides critical downstream protection covering several regions including cities like El Mirage & Sun City among others within unincorporated areas across Maricopa County itself too!

Maricopa County boasts successful collaborations such as those involving New River Dam or Thunderbird Paseo Park showcasing its ability creating infrastructure supporting both flood control alongside recreational/community development needs alike!