Phoenix seeks community input on Western CanalScape Phase 2 trail, bridge and lighting options

City of Phoenix project staff and Salt River Project officials described conceptual designs for the Western CanalScape Phase 2 corridor — between 20 Fourth Street and 40 Eighth Street — and asked residents for input on path width, bridge location, lighting and amenities in a virtual public meeting. The team said an online survey launched at the meeting and is open through May 18 to collect community preferences for features such as path width, bridge siting, seating, shade and public art.

The presentation stressed that the study is in the predesign, alternatives stage and that community input now can shape final concepts. "This meeting is for the community to help us determine the amenities that we are trying to figure out," said Andy Granger, Assistant Street Transportation Director. Brandy Rourke, City of Phoenix project manager, described the study as a continuation of Phase 1 work and said the project team will look for funding for design and construction after the study phase concludes.

Why it matters: staff said the canalscape provides a recreation route and connections to neighborhoods, jobs, schools and transit and supports the city's climate and active-transportation goals. The presentation said the canal improvements align with a city climate action target to develop recreational trails along the majority of canal banks by midcentury.

Key options presented include two canal-path widths — up to 10 feet or up to 12 feet —…