Canal multiple-use
Imagine areas along the SRP canals transformed into recreational trails, landscaped
pathways and even garden-style offices and retail development oriented towards the
canals. SRP is working with cities and developers to integrate portions of the canal
system into recreational and commercial development projects.
Canal multiple-use developments are a growing trend in the Valley.
Nearly every city in the project's water service territory is currently
constructing or planning projects.
The slideshow on the right shows photos of several canal multiple-use developments.
Partnering with cities
SRP works with each city throughout the design process to ensure compatibility
with SRP's operational and maintenance needs for the canal system.
Guidelines have been developed but vary from area to area so that each project
must be evaluated separately and design details can be tailored to fit specific city
requirements.
- Arizona Falls hydroelectric project. This key project is
located east of 56th Street along Indian School Road on the Arizona Canal.
SRP and the City of Phoenix worked together to integrate a hydro generation
project by SRP with canal bank beautification and interpretive structural design that
will provide not only power generation and recreational opportunities but serve
as an educational source related to hydro generation, canal and area history and
alternative energy such as solar power.
- Canal interpretive sites. In a cooperative effort with the United States Bureau of Reclamation, SRP is developing and installing historic interpretive signs throughout the canal system.
History of canal recreation
SRP has allowed licensed recreational use of the canal banks since 1964
when the first recreational use agreement was signed by Maricopa County
for the Sun Circle trail, a multi-purpose trail that circles the valley following
nearly 68 miles of canal. Since then, other cities have constructed paved
and lighted bike paths, bankside landscaping and public art features.
Please note: The canal system is an active operating water delivery system.
Any use of the canal banks by the public is done at the user's own risk, and SRP
cannot represent that the canal banks are safe for any recreational use.
