Why is Rio Salado important to Tempe?
Unlike most cities in the metropolitan Phoenix area, Tempe does not face issues of urban sprawl; rather it has to creatively use the land that exists within its borders. Rio Salado 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. Rio Salado 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. The scale of this project is larger than San Diego’s Balboa Park, the San Antonio (Texas) River Walk, the Boston Waterfront and New York City’s Central Park. The scope of the project is a combination of all of these attractions and more.
