The long-anticipated expansion of Pima County's Chuck Huckelberry Loop is set to open. The new segment, which runs from just south of Avra Valley Road to the Gladden Farms area, will be unveiled tomorrow, Sept. 14, adding approximately 1.5 miles to the popular trail network. The Loop, which is already acclaimed as a top recreational trail by USA Today, will now offer Marana residents additional access paths for outdoor activities, according to an announcement by county officials.
According to Pima County's website, the Marana Parks & Recreation director, Jim Conroy, expressed excitement about the expansion, stating, "We’re thrilled to see The Loop extend further into Marana, creating new opportunities for our residents to connect with the greater Tucson region." The latest addition, which cost a total of $4 million, was partially funded by Pima County Flood Control with a $670,000 contribution. It promises to offer both recreational and commuting benefits.
The improvements come as a means to provide a safe crossing over the Avra Valley Road bridge and to facilitate ease of passage near the CalPortland plant area, which sees significant truck traffic. The expanded trail network now forms an unbroken stretch of more than 33 miles along the east bank of the Santa Cruz River, demonstrating Pima County's commitment to enhancing local infrastructure for its active community.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Loop section is scheduled to take place at the Gladden Farms Soccer Fields at 12205 N. Tangerine Farms Road, starting at 7:30 a.m. Following the formalities, the event will continue with family-friendly activities such as cycling, music, and lawn games. Pima County's desire to capitalize on the already established popularity of the Chuck Huckelberry Loop is evident, as "It's very exciting to have a new addition to The Loop," Camille Hall, community engagement manager at Pima County Regional Flood Control District, told Pima County news.
The Loop's historical roots date back to soil-cement bank protection strategies implemented after the 1983 flood, but it has since evolved into a comprehensive network of over 137 miles of shared-use pathways and bike lanes. The network winds through unincorporated Pima County, Marana, Oro Valley, Tucson, and South Tucson, offering residents an extensive, award-winning trail for both leisure and utilitarian purposes.
