A space just to the southeast of one the oldest and most-used public parks in Flagstaff may see the construction of a skate rink, dog play area, and indoor basketball courts.
Additional ideas: an open air market, amphitheater, and athletic courts and fields.
The ideas come as part of an ongoing public input process centered on updating the 8.5-acre Thorpe Park annex, space that since the 1950s has been used as a public works yard.
Located at the corner of N. Bonito Street and W. Dale Avenue on the west side of downtown Flagstaff, the space became the subject of public comment once the City of Flagstaff moved the public works yard to another location and demolished several structures at the site.
That input process earlier this year saw more than 1,000 residents taking part in a community survey asking for ideas on how the annex space should look in the future and what services it should offer.
Proposals have also included the construction of an Indigenous Community and Cultural Center within the boundaries of the park, along with more space for community gardens.
The public input process has been headed by the Tucson-based Wheat Design Group, as well as the group Southwest Decision Resources, which has offices throughout Arizona.
Members of the Flagstaff City Council are expected to review the most recent comments on the annex’s future, with the possibility of taking a final vote on December 6.
By Garry Boulard
