Tucson Council approves funding for Cushing Street Skatepark and renames Columbus Park

The Tucson Mayor and City Council convened on February 19, 2025, to address a range of agenda items focused on community development, park initiatives, and economic initiatives. The meeting began with the approval of several impact fee subsidy requests aimed at supporting local housing developments, including Spire Development's Rincon Manor and COPE's Sequoia Apartments.

The council then discussed two intergovernmental agreements related to the construction of Cushing Street Park. Mayor Romero emphasized the significance of this project, which has been in the works for nearly a decade, highlighting the community's advocacy for a skate park in the area. The project, funded through various sources including American Rescue Plan dollars and grants, is set to transform an underutilized space into a fully shaded skate park, enhancing recreational opportunities for residents. Groundbreaking is scheduled for March 21, with completion expected in late 2025.

Following this, the council considered the renaming of Columbus Park to Danny Lopez Park. Council Member Dahl detailed the process that led to this proposal, which was initiated by a group of young Native Americans advocating for the change. The renaming honors Danny Lopez, a respected Tohono O'odham educator and cultural advocate. The council expressed strong support for this change, viewing it as a step toward acknowledging the region's indigenous heritage and promoting inclusivity.

The meeting also included discussions on the issuance of single-family mortgage revenue bonds and an agreement with RDM Tucson LLC for violence interruption initiatives. Additionally, the council voted to amend Tucson's code to rename the Cesar E. Chavez holiday to include Dolores Huerta, reflecting a commitment to honoring significant figures in the community.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's dedication to community development, cultural recognition, and enhancing recreational spaces for Tucson residents. The approved projects and initiatives are expected to foster a more inclusive and vibrant community.