Phoenix, Ariz. (July 24, 2024) – During their formal meeting earlier today, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors approved over $130,000 in funding for an East Valley dark-sky discovery center, trail improvements, early education training, and heat relief efforts.
“Over the past several years, the East Valley has undergone a significant period of growth and development that isn’t slowing down anytime soon,” said Vice Chairman Thomas Galvin, who represents District 2 on the Board of Supervisors. “To aid this continued expansion, Maricopa County is intentionally investing in projects that enable residents and their families to learn about our natural world, enjoy outdoor spaces, pursue an education, bolster their careers, and live healthy and fulfilling lives.”
The largest portion of the Board’s investment will go towards the International Dark Sky Discovery Center in Fountain Hills that teaches Maricopa County residents about the importance of dark skies for humans, animals, and plants. Approximately $100,000 will be used to create hands-on exhibits and camps for school-aged children and subsidize the cost of admission for residents of all ages.
“We are so thankful to Supervisor Galvin and the Board for recognizing the importance of the STEM education and dark-sky preservation mission of the International Dark Sky Discovery Center. With the largest telescope in the Phoenix area, a planetarium, and much more, residents will have an amazing experience at this unique facility,” said Joe Bill, President of the Discovery Center.
The Board also approved $10,000 for sign improvements at the Hawes Trail System in the Tonto National Forest. The funds will be used to install three new signs at trailheads to welcome the public, place new signs at intersections of newly created trails, and maintain existing signage throughout the trail system.
“The Hawes Trail Alliance was formed to help build, maintain, and enhance the Hawes Trail System to be enjoyed by bikers, hikers, and all outdoor enthusiasts for generations to come,” said Grant Taylor, Co-Founder of the Hawes Trail Alliance. “Our hope is that this new and improved signage will help Maricopa County residents and visitors be safer and more informed while exploring this beautiful trail system.”
From an education standpoint, Maricopa County recognizes that early education training is critical for preparing students to thrive in the highly technical future workplace. That’s why $8,000 is being invested in early education training curriculum, supplemental resources, and aides for students enrolled in the Early Childhood Education program at the East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) in Mesa.
“EVIT appreciates this generous donation to our Early Childhood Education program,” said Superintendent Dr. Chad Wilson. “This funding will help ensure our students have access to resources and materials needed for their training. Thank you to Supervisor Galvin and the Board for recognizing the importance of early childhood education.”
The Board is also funding the purchase of critical heat relief supplies like portable evaporative coolers, cooling vests, and durable medical equipment for seniors and individuals with disabilities enrolled in the Maricopa County Human Services Department’s Senior & Adult Services program.
“More and more residents over the age of 50 are being disproportionately impacted by the relentless summer heat,” said Jayson Matthews, Interim Director of Maricopa County’s Human Services Department. “Many of them live on fixed incomes and are unable to afford the costs of maintaining, fixing, or replacing their air conditioning units. These supplies will play a vital role in keeping seniors and folks with disabilities cool and safe in the case of an HVAC emergency.”
Finally, an additional $3,000 was allocated towards the purchase of dog shoes and leashes for heat relief centers in the continuing effort to help keep pets cool and safe during the stifling summer months.
These projects are being funded using Maricopa County Community Solutions Funding allocated by Vice Chairman Galvin. The Board’s Community Solutions Funding is designed to help advance Maricopa County’s strategic goals and provide clear public benefits for Maricopa County residents.
