In 1998, the Back-to-Basics program was implemented as an infrastructure improvement program to concentrate funding for projects that revitalize and stabilize neighborhoods. Each grant recipient’s project is part of an ongoing plan for neighborhood improvement. I’m delighted we have this mechanism to help neighborhood residents come together to solve problems.

In September, I announced $419,294.00 in Back-to Basics grants to 11 neighborhoods and two non-profit organizations.

Palo Verde Neighborhood Association received a grant of $122,000 for traffic mitigation. The plan was based on a survey of neighborhood residents as well as a traffic count and recommendations by Tucson’s Department of Transportation. This research identified traffic problem areas and appropriate mitigation devices.

Barrio Viejo Neighborhood Association was awarded $60,000 for phase one of Parque de Diego y Orlando Mendoza, which will be at the northwest corner of 18^th Street and Convent. In 1981, two young boys, Diego, 1, and Orlando, 2 ½, were killed when a drunk driver hit the vehicle in which they were traveling. Seven local artists designed and built a shrine where their car came to rest after impact.

The Volunteer Center was awarded $4,400 for badly needed roof repairs. The grant helped them complete repairs before monsoon season.

Other Projects Include:

Feldman's

Historic Street Lights

$96,000.00

Thunderbird Heights

Traffic Mitigation Plan

$12,000.00

Miramonte

Traffic Mitigation, Phase 2

$11,500.00

Toumey Park

Playground Equipment

$16,394.00

Rincon Heights

Landscaping Neighborhood Streets, Phase 2

$57,500.00

Colonia Solona

Epes Randolph Statue

$7,500.00

Mitman

Completion of Traffic Mitigation Plan

$10,000.00

San Clemente

Completion of Traffic Mitigation Plan

$6,000.00

Catalina Vista

Traffic Mitigation

$10,000.00

ArtFare

Sprinkler Connection

$6,000.00