A greater understanding and knowledge of the environmental conditions for the Rio Reimagined Project area is needed as a first step towards understanding the barriers and opportunities for revitalization of the river itself and the area beyond the banks.

Rio Reimagined—working together to strengthen and connect communities, expand economic growth, and support the Salt and Gila Rivers’ ecosystem for a more sustainable future. Reconnecting Rio Reimagined’s urban communities with their waterways. Learn more about the RIO regional vision planning process and stay up-to-date on recent developments.

Mar 11, 2025 · The project fosters collaboration between public agencies, tribal nations, and local communities to reimagine and restore the Valley’s Salt and Gila River corridor. Recognized as the 20th location of the Urban Waters Federal Partnership in 2020, Rio Reimagined focuses on sustainable development and community engagement to shape the future of ...

A planning process intends to generate an overarching vision for the future of the river corridor, informed by local communities’ priorities and needs, and development priorities with funding strategies to ensure a cohesive regional impact.

EPA announced that the City of Avondale will receive a $600,000 brownfields grant with the cities of Phoenix, Tempe, and ASU for redevelopment of the river corridor. This brownfields grant will be a key to realizing the Rio Reimagined vision of a community connected to the river with economic growth, environmental stewardship, and access for all.

Aug 1, 2024 · The Rio Salado was once a perennial river flowing through Central Arizona, supporting early settlement by native Americans. Today it is an ephemeral river corridor connecting diverse urban communities across burgeoning Maricopa County.

As a shared natural and cultural asset, the Salt and Gila river corridor provides a unique opportunity for Rio Reimagined to inspire and unite businesses and non-profits in the engagement of thoughtful and sustainable economic, recreational, and equitable development along the river.

Oct 16, 2023 · As part of the Rio Reimagined efforts, the project aims to create pollinator garden sites along the Salt – Gila River corridor, with the Rio Salado Audubon Center as a critical waystation on the south bank of the river.

The 26-mile stretch of Interstate 10 between Loop 202 (Santan/South Mountain Freeway) in south Phoenix and State Route 387 near Casa Grande, also known as the Wild Horse Pass Corridor, is a major commuter route, a freight thoroughfare, and connects the Gila River Indian Community to vital services in Maricopa and Pinal Counties.

May 31, 2012 · The Gila River corridor in Arizona is recognized as important riparian and riverine habitat for many wildlife and fish species 4 , including the federally protected Southwestern Willow flycatcher (SWWF).