Right from it's inception, Tempe's land'-locked condition presented a unique challenge for providing recreational, environmental and economic opportunities for this community. Thus was born; The Rio Salado Project, a plan that transformed a barren utility corridor into a beautiful greenbelt with recreation, entertainment and development opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy. It's the famous Town Lake. The lake provides the largest usable body of water available to the largest population in Arizona, with resorts, restaurants, retail shops, marina's, parks and just about every other recreational use possible. Today, more than 2 million people visit Town Lake each year to boat, fish, attend concerts, fireworks and attend a variety of festivals. It's also one of Tempe's best development sites. There is a 25'-acre Tempe Beach Park, established as the city's first public park in 1931. Tempe Beach Park, now centrally located on the south bank of the Town Lake, is just north of downtown Tempe, has been completely renovated and continues to be the community gathering spot for all ages. Follow a beautiful winding pathway through groves of trees covering wonderful picnic areas which are used daily for lunches and bar b ques, but for special events such as Tempe's famous New Year's Eve Block Party and the July 4th celebrations. There is a 5000 seat grassy lawn area used for open play, boat watching or amphitheater. Density and building heights have been increased to maximize land uses and mixed'-use developments provide a balance of hotel, restaurant, retail, office, light industrial, residential, entertainment and commercial recreational venues. More than 25 government agencies and the support of thousands of residents and business organizations have been fundamental to the success of this great project. All of these groups have joined together to carefully blend innovative development with artwork and environmentally sensitive projects which allow The Rio Salado Project to exemplify the history, culture and future for all of us in the Sonoran desert. The Prehistoric Hohokam Indians were the first to recognize the need for controlling the water runoff through the area and created an extensive desert valley canal system. Signs of their culture has remained through the ruins of their dwellings, unearthed pottery shards and artifacts and carved petroglyphs that exist in the nearby rocks. Their canal system became the foundation for all of the canals seen throughout the valley today. Throughout the Valley's history, the Salt River has taken lives and destroyed homes with its deceptively strong currents. Through channelization, these floodwaters are contained within an 800'-foot plus floodway, allowing for the creation of parks and structures in areas once subject to flood damage. The Rio Salado Project reclaims over 800 acres of once undeveloped land from the flood plain, making it possible for river land to be developed which enhances the quality of life of Valley residents. The Rio Salado Project provides increased recreational opportunities for residents, tourist attractions for visitors, and economic growth for employment and stability. The Tempe Town Lake, which is between 800'-to'-1,200 feet wide and two miles long, is the closest lake available to the largest population residing in Arizona.

By Tracey