SURPRISEAZ.GOV/PROGRESSMAG • WINTER 2025CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS Held at: Surprise City Council Chambers, Surprise City Hall, 16000 N. Civic Center Plz. When: First and third Tuesday of the month•6 p.m. Work Sessions•4 p.m. Call: 623.222.1200•surpriseaz.gov/CityCalendar PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION Held at: Surprise City Council Chambers When: First and third Thursday of the month•6 p.m. Call: 623.222.3154•surpriseaz.gov/PZ-Commission P&Z COMMISSION MEMBERS VETERANS, DISABILITY AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION Held at: Surprise City Council Chambers When: Second Wednesday of the month•6 p.m. Meeting playbacks are available with Closed Captioning surpriseaz.gov/SurpriseTV Call: 623.222.3243 •TTY: 623.222.1002 PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION 623.222.2240 ARTS & CULTURAL ADVISORY COMMISSION 623.222.3243 LIBRARY ADVISORY COMMISSION • 623.222.1036 Surprise Progress is published by the City of Surprise Marketing & Communications Department. Read it online at surpriseaz.gov/ProgressMag. Comments? Call 623.222.1431 or email us at communications@surpriseaz.gov. WINTER 2025 | Volume 25 | No. 1 DISTRICT 1 Nick Haney DISTRICT 2 Earle Greenberg DISTRICT 3 Patrick Duffy DISTRICT 4 Johnny Melton DISTRICT 5 Jack Hastings DISTRICT 6 Chris Judd MAYOR Kevin Sartor CITY MANAGER Bob Wingenroth - 623.222.1100 Jared Holland Ken Chapman Kevin Perry Anthony Spata CITY COUNCIL - 623.222.1300 Dennis Bash Matthew Keating Jay Leonard LIVE TELEVISED MEETINGS YOU CAN WATCH ON surpriseaz.gov/SurpriseTV/CityOfSurprise Printed on paper with a portion of post-consumer waste. PRINTED WITH SOY INKS Amanda Steele Nichole Wiley WRITER | EDITOR Ambria Brown Lorena Cano Muriel M. Sawicki GRAPHIC DESIGN | PHOTOGRAPHY Virginia Mungovan CHIEF EDITOR DAY OF CELEBRATION AND SERVICE JANUARY 18, 2025 8 a.m. - noon Willow Canyon High School 17901 W. Lundberg St. In honor of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., this event features a program at 9 a.m. with performances and speakers. Arrive at 8 a.m. for a free breakfast (first 500) and to check-in for the community service projects that will follow the program. surpriseaz.gov/MLK 2 surpriseaz.gov | Winter 2025 NEW SOLUTIONSCOMING TO THE US 60 / LOOP 303 / 163RD AVENUE CORRIDOR THE ROADWAYS ALONG THE US 60 / LOOP 303 / 163RD AVENUE CORRIDOR CONTINUE TO SEE CAPACITY-BUILDING CHANGES, WITH EVEN MORE IMPROVEMENTS PLANNED THIS YEAR. In November, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) completed striping modifications to bring a third left turn lane from southbound 163rd Avenue onto US 60 and extend the existing eastbound US 60 third lane to 163rd Avenue. In March, when temperatures return to the ideal range for paving, ADOT will come back to complete paving of those areas. This will complete the short-term improvements that the City and ADOT announced in December 2023 to fast- track congestion relief. 2025 Improvements The City advocated for the Maricopa Association of Governments to allocate $4.2 million for additional improvements, funded through Proposition 400, which are in design. Construction is anticipated to begin summer 2025 and take approximately four to six months to complete. Improvements will include: US 60/Loop 303 » Add a second right turn lane on eastbound US 60 to southbound Loop 303 » Add a third left turn lane from southbound Loop 303 to westbound US 60 » Lengthen the two-lane portion of the southbound Loop 303 on-ramp » Add a dedicated eastbound right turn lane into the drive between Deer Valley Road and 163rd Avenue and an acceleration lane along US 60 » Add a fourth lane along US 60 through the 163rd Avenue intersection in each direction Long-term Transportation Solutions Funded with Prop 479 In the longer term, residents can expect to see significant new and improved freeway solutions along the Loop 303, US 60, 163rd Avenue corridor, thanks to voters passing the Proposition 479 transportation sales tax in the November election. Traffic solutions slated to be funded for the area include a new traffic interchange along Loop 303, the ultimate interchange buildout at US 60 and Loop 303, improvements and possible grade separation of US 60 and 163rd Avenue, and an extension of El Mirage Road from Loop 303 to Jomax Road. US 60/163rd Avenue Winter 2025 | surpriseaz.gov 3As we continue to grow, it’s critical that the City remain focused on proactively investing into public safety to retain low response times. As a first responder myself, I know how critical this is to keep you and your loved ones safe. Fire Station 309 at Cactus and Perryville roads is set to open in February, and in early 2025 we’re looking to acquire land for Fire Station 310 in the northwest area. Additionally, the Police Substation (approved by voters in the 2023 Bond Election) will be constructed by the end of 2026 in the northern area on 163rd Avenue near Fire Station 304, providing additional officers and resources to serve the community efficiently. As the new year kicks off, I hope you’re as excited about new beginnings as I am as your District 2 Councilmember. My wife and I bought in Surprise in 2013 and quickly involved ourselves in clubs at The Grand. After careers in banking, technology, communications and the arts, we sought a place to continue learning, make friends and contribute. I ran for office to further ensure Surprise's thoughtful growth and make it an even better place for everyone. Cheers to 2025 and most importantly, good health. One of my favorite things about living in Surprise is it’s the perfect place for families to stay active, especially as the cooler weather arrives. With a variety of recreational spaces and opportunities for play, there’s something for everyone. The City offers youth and adult sports leagues, special interest classes and more! If you prefer to be a spectator, you can catch a Spring Training game at Surprise Stadium. Your recreation guide begins on page 20 and Spring Training info starts on page 12. As I walk into this new role as your elected councilmember, I want to say that I don’t take this role lightly and I am thankful you have given me the opportunity to serve our community, safeguard the interests of our residents and push forward the future we all want here in District 4. There are many priorities for our community, from transportation to water to public safety. My time in the Navy taught me that large ships don’t turn quickly, but I resolve to push for the incremental changes we need, and I will vote with our future in mind. Keeping our community clean and safe is important to me. That’s why I supported the return of an urban camping ban that prohibits people from sleeping in our public spaces. This ban also provides our police department with another vital tool in their treatment-first approach. It will provide them a greater ability to help anyone found without shelter connect with housing and resources, while also having an impact on those who choose willingly to violate the ban. I believe this is an important step in ensuring our city remains a great place for everyone to live, work and play. Our City recently entered into an agreement with Maricopa County, moving us one step closer to embrac- ing miles of open space near McMicken Dam as a future paradise of parks, open space and nature trails. Local wildlife already travels through this area, and now hiking and biking enthusiasts will also be able to enjoy it within an amaz- ing conservation area. Beyond this future trail system, we will also be able to add more recreational space for our residents with outdoor programming. I have been championing this project for a while, and I can’t wait to see the possibilities it will open! Read more on page 7. D 1 D 2 D 3 D 4 D 5 D 6 surpriseaz.gov/District1surpriseaz.gov/District2surpriseaz.gov/District3 surpriseaz.gov/District4surpriseaz.gov/District5surpriseaz.gov/District6 Jack Hastings Johnny Melton Chris Judd Earle Greenberg Nick Haney Patrick Duffy 4 surpriseaz.gov | Winter 2025 surpriseaz.gov/ Mayor appy New Year! January marks the beginning of my first term as Mayor of Surprise and brings with it an exciting opportunity to serve our extraordinary community—a calling that has been central to my life’s journey. The strong sense of duty I felt following the events of 9/11 inspired me to join the United States Army. Over two deploy- ments to Iraq, serving as a Drill Sergeant, earning a commission and later serving as an Engineer Officer in the Arizona Army National Guard, I’ve had the privilege of serving our state and nation in diverse roles. Last year, I retired from the military after 20 years of service. I am eager to apply the leadership skills I’ve developed throughout my career, as well as the knowledge I’ve gained from my earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management and a Mas- ter’s Degree in Public Administration, to guide our city toward a bright future. I’ve also been fortunate to serve the City of Surprise in other capacities prior to becoming Mayor. As a volunteer on the Planning and Zoning Commission, I gained valuable insight into the city’s growth and development processes. In the summer of 2023, I became a City of Surprise Fellow, where I collaborated with City leaders to advance strategic growth initiatives. This hands-on experi- ence deepened my understanding of the City’s objectives and the effort required for sustainable success. These experiences reinforced my passion for leading Surprise into the future and inspired fresh vision for our community. As Mayor, I am dedicated to addressing critical issues such as public safety, trans- portation and responsible growth. Above all, my goal is to reflect the priori- ties of our residents. I am committed to actively listening to your concerns and being a strong advocate for your vision of our community. I encourage you to reach out to me at mayor@surpriseaz.gov to share your thoughts, ideas or feedback. Your voice matters, and I look for- ward to working together to make Surprise an even better place to live, work and thrive. H Mayor Kevin Sartor THE COUNCIL UPDATE Scan the code with your smartphone and enter your address to find out what district you live in. surpriseaz.gov/MySurpriseAddress SUBSCRIBE Find the information you need from official sources. Receive email and text notifications for City news, councilmember newsletters and more! See all the notification options at surpriseaz.gov/Subscribe. CONNECT Get the latest updates from City social media, including information specific to your councilmembers, police and fire departments and others. See all our social media channels at surpriseaz.gov/Connect. surpriseazgovcityofsurpriseSurpriseTV11azsurpriseazsurprise Winter 2025 | surpriseaz.gov 5If you have been by the intersection of Cactus and Perryville roads recently, you have likely noticed the exciting transformation happening as construction has progressed on a new fire station, park and aquatic facility. Our city’s ninth fire station, FS 309, is set to be operational this February, helping to maintain response times across the city as our population continues to grow. The grand opening of the Oasis Swim Center and Rescue Springs Park is anticipated in May, so stay tuned for an official announcement this spring. Public Safety & Aquatic Center Shaping Up to Open This Year! Here's a look at the progress! 6 surpriseaz.gov | Winter 2025 PHASE 2 Open space PHASE 1 Open space This project will unfold in three phases: PHASE 1 This phase focuses on preserving natural open spaces between Grand Avenue and Peoria Avenue, which may in the future include trailheads, pathways and possible amenities such as BMX tracks, an archery range and disc golf courses. PHASE 2 Phase two will create usable natural open space east of Grand Avenue. This would be for trails with ramadas and restrooms at the trailhead and could include such amenities as bird watching and animal corridors. PHASE 3 Following examination of the land and approval for specific recreational uses, the City will choose the best location for a large community park that, dependent on funding, could include amenities such as playgrounds, racquet sports courts, sports fields, basketball courts, restrooms, concessions and ramadas. This is a long- range goal that is expected to be about 10 years out from completion. N PHASE 3 Potential park options While the full implementation will take time, the project is now in the planning stages with a clear vision for the future of Surprise! FUTURE PARK FACILITIES & OPEN SPACES Planning for The City will be able to develop and revitalize portions of the McMicken Dam area just northwest of Loop 303 thanks to an agreement between the City and the Flood Control District of Maricopa County. This agreement will allow community space that combines natural preservation with recreational facilities, providing residents with a place to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. The City is expected to take over maintenance of the area in early 2025 and will integrate it into our Parks & Recreation Master Plan. We’ll also start working with housing developers near the land to include access points to the Maricopa Trail – a 315-mile trail that connects hikers and bikers with the major regional and municipal parks in the metro Phoenix area. Winter 2025 | surpriseaz.gov 7LET’S READ!!! 2025 Mayor’s Literacy Challenge January 1 – February 15 Read your way to exciting rewards, including Spring Training tickets and a chance to win a pizza party for your entire grade. The school that reads the most minutes will even win a traveling trophy! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets! An RSVP is not required but is highly recommended to receive event updates and to plan for activities. Head to surpriseaz.gov/ArtsSignUp. Two larger-than-life, vibrant new art installations, "Bounce" and "Swing," are in fabrication and will be installed at Surprise Stadium in the summer of 2025. "Bounce" displays a 20-foot-long, 18-foot-high shade structure with a waterjet-cut cotton pattern, paying homage to Surprise's agricultural roots. "Swing" is a captivating sculpture made from over 200 real baseball bats, inspired by stop- motion photography. These pieces are being crafted by Arizona-based Southwest Fabrication and Bollinger Atelier. You’ll definitely want to capture these unique photo opportunities at the stadium after they are installed! Country-Pop APRIL 3 High Horse and Eden Cislo Indie Blues FEBRUARY 6 The Black Hole and Zach Johnson A free, outdoor performance series offering local live music, engaging art activities and delicious food trucks. Select Thursday nights from 6 - 8 p.m. at Asante Library, 16755 W. Vereda Solana Dr. UPCOMING PERFORMANCES BOUNCE & Learn more and get registered at surpriseaz.gov/LiteracyChallenge 8 surpriseaz.gov | Winter 2025 Winter 2025 | surpriseaz.gov 9 MAR 10 6 - 7 p.m. | Asante Library Authoring Home: Arizona’s Indigenous and Chicano Literary History Oscar Mancinas Many stories about the Western Frontier center settlers and their relationships to the landscape and people already residing in that landscape when they arrived. Learn from two early 20th-century AZ authors, whose literary works helped give voice to people not otherwise represented in literature. APR 9 11 a.m. - noon | Surprise City Hall The Colorado River | Jim Turner The Colorado River is a critical source of the West’s water supply. Learn about the geology, geography, exploration, national parks and the state of the river today. SPEAKS 2025 SERIES Events are free, but registration is required at surpriseaz.gov/ArtsSignup. LOOKING FOR MORE ARTS & CULTURE EVENTS? Head to surpriseaz.gov/ArtsCulture JAN 15 6 - 7 p.m. | Asante Library Learning to Live Together: Martin Luther King Jr. and His Philosophy of the Beloved Community Jim McWilliams One of the most important concepts in Martin Luther King Jr.’s teachings is the possibility of people from diverse backgrounds and economic circumstances learning to live together. Explore MLK’s ideas through the works of Charles Johnson. FEB 12 11 a.m. - noon | Surprise City Hall By the Time They Came: African American Men of AZ | Duku Anoky Explore the untold stories and accomplishments of African American men in AZ. Dr. Anokye focuses on identifying the common threads of the African American community that have enriched and given meaning to their lives. MAY 14 6 - 7 p.m. | Asante Library Arizona’s Cosmic Connections Marshall Shore Celebrate AZ’s multifaceted relationship with the universe, highlighting its significant contributions to space exploration, sustainability, research and the stories of its Indigenous peoples. SEP 24 6 - 7 p.m. | Asante Library Seeing the Desert | Gregory McNamee With insights from literature, philosophy, art, neurology, etc., learn to see the desert as a place of abundant life, abundant beauty and abundant possibilities for happiness. OCT 22 11 a.m. - noon | Surprise City Hall Contando con Tata | Zarco Guerrero Lalo Guerrero, a Mexican American singer- songwriter from Tucson, is considered the Godfather of Chicano Music. Learn about his impact on music today.Next >