ARIZONA FORWARD

Improving environmental quality page 84

The Grand Canalscape page 86

Building healthy communties page 90

Environmental Excellence Awards

page 94

ARIZONA FORWARD 2016

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Together, we can keep Arizona beautiful. SRP is proud to work with its customers on programs that help reforest land destroyed by fire, support solar for local nonprofits and encourage the adoption of electric vehicles. After all, taking care of Arizona takes all of us.

That’s why SRP demonstrates environmental leadership by using a diverse mix of wind, solar, and other sustainable resources. To learn what SRP is doing and how you can be a part of it, visit srpnet.com/environment.

ARIZONA FORWARD 2016

Unity needed to improve state’s environmental quality and economic vitality

W

e have more in common than you might imagine.

Sustainable growth issues facing Arizona’s north, south and central regions are surprisingly aligned. That’s why it’s imperative we work together to improve the environmental quality and economic vitality of our cities and towns.

For example, the health of our rivers — the Santa Cruz, San Pedro and Verde — are critical to sustain habitat and wildlife, as well as the quality of life for residents. Flagstaff scientists at Northern Arizona University are connecting education, research and the community through health equity, biomechanics, astronomy and environmental sciences. Perhaps, the biggest issue of concern under study in Central Arizona is water – our most precious Diane Brossart and threatened natural resource.

Arizona Forward These are just a few topics Arizona Forward covered in 2016.

There’s good reason all of us who have made Arizona our home should care about the health and wellness of our communities.

To keep young people here, they need to perceive Arizona is among the best places in America to live, work, learn and recreate.

Finding a high paying job is important but not the catch-all. People of all ages are drawn to community design that enhances physical, mental, economic and social well-being.

Walkability, mixed-use development and access to shopping, restaurants and cultural amenities are key elements of vibrant places.

Alternative transportation – biking and transit – are also quality of life indicators, as are adaptive re-use, shade and open spaces.

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It takes community and political will to create great places. That’s what Arizona Forward is all about. For nearly 50 years, this organization has mobilized the state’s business leaders and policymakers to leverage their collective power to influence how we best grow our communities, stimulate our economy and enhance our environment.

Your zip code has a direct correlation to your health and wellness.

Where you live directly impacts how long you live. Arizona Forward has presented three summits on Building Healthy Communities connecting community design and public health.

The organization conceived Grand Canalscape, which the City of Phoenix is now designing. It will create a 12-mile continuous trail system along the Grand Canal from I-17 to the Phoenix/Tempe border. The project is part of a larger regional trail and crossing project that will ultimately result in a continuous trail along the Grand Canal between Glendale and Tempe.

The priority of green design and a shared ethic to protect natural resources in Arizona is further demonstrated in the nearly 100 entries Arizona Forward received in its 36th Annual Environmental Excellence Awards presented by SRP. Arizona now ranks ninth in the nation when it comes to citizens being physically, emotionally and mentally healthy, according to a Gallup Healthways Well-Being Index. Forbes recently named our state the best in the country for future job growth and second for population expansion. Money Magazine ranked Tucson among the best five U.S. cities for millennials and National Geographic has designated the Verde Valley as a geo-tourism mecca.

Arizona Forward members are setting the benchmark for promoting sustainability, conserving natural resources and preserving our state’s unique environment for future generations.

Diane Brossart is prresident and CEO of Arizona Forward.

ARIZONA FORWARD 2016

The Grand

Canalscape

Plan will create a trail system from I-17 to Tempe and spark economic development along the way

By ERIN DAVIS

W

hen a child first opens a box of Legos, he sees a random pile of attachable pieces. Once his imagination has been sparked, those singular pieces connect together to produce a masterpiece — a town, spaceship or creature. The City of Phoenix, Arizona Forward, SRP and many other public and private entities aren’t much different in their approach to connectivity concerning the Grand Canalscape Project. As Phase Two begins, existing pieces (the canals) are forming new connections between Glendale and Tempe, while improvements along the 12-mile trail system from 1-17 to the Phoenix/Tempe border continue to take place.

Connecting infrastructure and transportation

Most everyone involved in the Grand Canalscape Project agree that its singular greatest asset is connectivity.

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By using the Grand Canal system already in place, enhancements are being made from around 15th Avenue to 16th Street and Indian School Road, and close to 36th Street, ending at 40th Street, with additional improvements occurring from 1-17 to 15th Avenue, and picking up again from 16th Street to 36th Street, and then 40th Street to the Phoenix/Tempe border.

If you’re having difficulty visualizing this web of connections, defer to City of Phoenix Community and Economic Development Director Christine Mackay, who explains, “From infrastructure to major crossing intersections, the Grand Canalscape will link city streets and continue through arterial streets for pedestrian activity and connectivity.”

“The canals serve as the backbone for the multi-use, nonmotorized transportation system of Phoenix,” adds James Duncan, senior analyst water engineering for SRP. “Not to mention

acting deputy street transportation director for the Transportation Planning and Programming Division for City of Phoenix.

Economic development connections

“From an economic development standpoint,” Mackay says, “any projects that make it more attractive to live, work and enjoy the landscape, the more we want to be involved. The Grand Canalscape Project does that. It creates outdoor environments and entices companies to the area.”

James Duncan Monica Hernandez Christine Mackay Mark Melnychenko Although some areas along the canal have historically been saddled with a negative stigma, Mackay is confident these impressions will the many other bike paths and trails within 131 miles of the canal eventually slip away. “We see the value in these areas as the system running through exclusively urbanized areas.” arteries and lifeblood of Phoenix,” she says. “Companies will want According to Duncan, the Grand Canalscape Project will be to be part of the momentum.” the first major paved and improved path to connect downtown This is particularly true, according to Mackay, in terms of the Phoenix and Tempe.

Gateway corridor. What was once a thriving area has fallen into The upgrades to the trail system are designed to entice more disrepair, but with the advent of Grand Canalscape improvements, recreational activity and encourage pedestrian and bicycle activity, the area has the potential to be a lively and enticing economic among other non-motorized transportation. development hotspot.

“Safe, sensible options for mobility is our goal,” says Monica “There is opportunity for a great office corridor in the Gateway Hernandez, public information officer for City of Phoenix market,” Mackay says. “Around 40th Street, you’ve got Sky Harbor Transportation Department. Hernandez also emphasizes the benefit Airport and Gateway Community College, and on 44th, Van Buren of the canals’ various points in close proximity to the light rail. and Washington streets, there are opportunities for revitalization In addition to maximizing mobility along the Grand Canal, and viable land sites available for new development.” several safety enhancements are being implemented.

Mackay also stresses the importance of connections in local “Several crossings throughout the 40th Street, Campbell and neighborhoods. “By adding playgrounds, bike paths and parks Central system will have a number of safety improvements, including surrounding the canals, we are reinvigorating and breaking down push-button, safe crossing features,” says Mark Melnychenko, barriers between neighborhoods,” Mackay says.

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ARIZONA FORWARD 2016 Connecting education

DO YOU KNOW A CONSERVATION HERO?

N O M I N AT E T H E M ! coxconservesheroes.com

Each year, Cox Communications, in partnership with The Trust for Public Land, seeks nominations for

the

awards

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honoring

Heroes

individuals

who

are environmental volunteers in Phoenix and Southern Arizona. A total of $20,000 is donated

A key point of connectivity occurs with the union of four schools intersecting along the Grand Canalscape Project pathway.

“Teachers and students from Brophy College Preparatory, Central High School, St. Francis Xavier Elementary School and Xavier College Preparatory have worked together to form a vision for the canal that would offer students and members of the community a space that fosters and promotes a sense of pride and collaboration,” says Mathematics Department Chair Janet Mambrino, Xavier College Prep’s representative on Arizona Forward’s Grand Canalscape team.

Mambrino has been working with Arizona Forward, SRP, the City of Phoenix and faculty from the ASU Global Institute of Sustainability — among others — since 2013. Student teams have been an integral part of the process, outlining three focus areas of the Grand Canalscape Project: • Infrastructure (pathways, lighting and bridges) • Amenities (seating and shade) • Environment (landscaping) “The students all agreed that the improvements should cultivate a learning environment that would provide opportunities for students to study the canal system and conduct science inquiries, learn canal system history and the importance of water, water conservation and sustainability initiatives,” Mambrino says.

The four-school junction isn’t the only education-based union along the Grand Canalscape system.

“Another strong connection that may not be discussed as much is ASU and Gateway Community College and Grand Canyon University on the Westside,” Melnychenko says, “where students are apt to utilize the canals.”

each year to local environmental nonprofits on behalf of the winner and finalists — $10k to the winner and $5k to each finalist! Spread the news!

Arizona’s Cox Conserves Heroes Timeline: • Nominations Open: April 2017 • Online Voting: June — July • Winner Announcement: August

CONGRATULATIONS Cox Conserves Heroes 2016: Shawn Redfield, Arizona Trail Association 2015: Marilyn Hanson, Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum 2014: Greg Clark, Wild At heart 2013: Brad Lancaster, Desert Harvesters 2012: Melinda Gulick, McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

Check out previous winners and finalists bios and videos by visiting cox7.com/cox-conserves 88

AB | November-December 2016

There is a substantial public art component Artistically connecting

The beautification aspect of the Grand Canalscape Project doesn’t simply involve the implementation of landscape, lighting and amenities; it incorporates transformation of these initiatives through local art and design.

Duncan says. “We did an inventory of projects last year and calculated that $10 million in commissioned art is featured along the SRP canal.”

This includes specialized signage along the canal explaining its history and items of interest and significance.

“We are working with artist Michael Singer, known for his incorporation of concrete, steel and sandstone elements,” Hernandez says. “We will also be introducing trail markers, shade and benches.”

At Northern Arizona University you’ll learn from faculty who take the time to mentor their students. Because we know every dream is different.

And the success of a college education is measured by the success after college.

the future looks better from here nau.edu/fromhere

ARIZONA FORWARD 2016

Building healthy communities

Arizona Forward shows that your zip code has a direct correlation to health and wellness

By ERIN DAVIS

D

id you know that according to statistics, 80 percent of how long we live is based on how we live — our lifestyles, habits and culture — while only 20 percent is based on genetics or our access to basic healthcare. In 2004, Dan Buettner joined with National Geographic to identify specific locations that exhibited instances of longer life. Five specific demographics were discovered around the world. Referred to as “Blue Zones,” they had commonalities in collective-community healthy living, environmental sustainability and responsible economic growth.

What do Blue Zones have to do with Arizona? According to the mission of Arizona Forward: everything.

“One of our stewardships brought in a speaker from Blue Zones,” says Diane Brossart, president and CEO of Arizona Forward. “It’s a science, and one that Arizona Forward would love to see happen in our state.”

Arizona may not yet be the sixth Blue Zone, but we may turn a hue of blue sooner than you think. Arizona Forward’s mission and vision match the characteristics of longevity-prone zones: lowenvironmental impact, high sustainability and overall health and wellness amidst ever-expanding economic growth.

According to Brossart, a recent report ranked Arizona ninth in the nation for physical emotional and mental wellness — a jump from 19th place last year.

Economic growth and wellness As Arizona continues to expand, how are we keeping up in efforts to improve health, wellness, sustainability and environmental integrity?

“Arizona Forward focuses on the balance of economic 90

AB | November-December 2016

growth and environmental quality,” Brossart says. “Cities and communities become stronger when practicing sustainability.”

“Much of the last 50 to 100 years has been about unparalleled economic expansion,” adds Vitalyst Director of Communications Jon Ford. “Based on the results of hockey-stick growth and the impact it produced in terms of health and sustainability, it’s time to rethink, reconnect and reimagine our way forward.”

Ford, who has been heavily involved with Arizona Forward for the past few years and is on the board of directors’ Communications Committee and Healthy Communities and Sustainable Growth Committee, has pinpointed the interconnectivity of health and sustainability in Phoenix, Tucson, Jerome, Flagstaff, the Verde Valley, Yuma, Rio Rico and others.

What specifically are these communities doing to fit the environmentally responsible and sustainable mold? Brossart points to Peoria as one example.

“Peoria created a cross-generational community garden, transformed from a vacant property in Old Town,” Brossart says.

“What was once a blemish was transformed by master gardeners, high school students and residents within the community.”

In addition to its community gardens, Peoria was recognized for several other environmental efforts, receiving several Environmental Excellence awards this year.

Brossart also references Phoenix, Gilbert and Tempe for creating and maintaining initiatives for more healthy and sustainable communities.

“About five years ago, Phoenix hired a Chief Sustainability Officer Mark Hartman, who put together a sustainability plan adopted by Mayor Greg Stanton,” Brossart says. “Tempe is known

for it’s walkability and Gilbert for it’s livability measures.”

Other examples of sustainability reside in cross-community infrastructure implementations and improvements such as the Grand Canalscape project, designed to connect transportation and recreation throughout Phoenix, Tempe and Glendale. And, of course, there’s the light rail collaboration between Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa.

“These efforts toward more walkable and multi-modal living has a direct impact on health, well-being and social and cultural cohesion,” Ford says. “These make for better places to live, connecting more people to jobs and providing more opportunities for healthy living.”

Arizona Forward motion It’s clear that while Arizona expands and communities develop that environmental sustainability and accommodating health and wellness continue to evolve — parks, trails, gardens, community yoga, etc.

“Promoting environmental integrity is the current trend,” says AECOM Associate Vice President Jennifer Pyne. “To have a sustainable future has everything to do with our economic and environmental integrity. Living effectively will require sustainability.”

As Arizona Forward and partners move ahead to achieve these initiatives for existing and future communities, Brossart stresses the importance of public, private and government relationships moving forward.

“Small and large corporations and business like Vitalyst and Honeywell, combined with Arizona cities like Sedona, Cottonwood and Tucson; and smaller architectural companies are working together to form a stronger state. As a nonpartisan entity, we are able to take the politics out of it,” Brossart says.

Brossart elaborates that effecting positive and lasting change requires collaboration to work successfully. Both public and private sectors have individual bureaucracies, which make it even more vital for cooperation in matters of environmental and sustainable integrity.

“It’s not an ‘either-or’ mindset that will get things done,” Ford says. “It’s a ‘both-and’ perspective that Arizona Forward is embracing, taking into account the larger and smaller discussions.”

It takes a village — and individuals, too Bossart believes, as admittedly cliché as it may be, that progressing economic growth through environmental and healthconscious means literally “takes a village” to accomplish. Since a village is made up of groups of individuals, each person has the power to effect change.

“I think the more people that become involved in understanding, voting in their communities and thinking less narrowly about health and more about how health affect their community, the more we will achieve our goals toward establishing vital and healthy environments,” Pyne says.

Ford believes that public health and community design are powerful tools in working toward transformative changes to create a positive health impact.

“The good news is that once you see your community through a health and well-being lens, it is hard to ‘unsee’ the opportunities to improve it,” he says.

Brossart stresses that awareness is a valuable first step.

“Attend city council meetings,” she says, “Bring a vision of what you want to see in your community. And find your passion This is your home. We need to help manage it ourselves.”

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ARIZONA FORWARD 2016

BEST OF SHOW:

Environmental Excellence Awards Arizona Forward honors projects that create healthy, environmental friendly, sustainable communities

A

“building of the future” earned this year’s President’s Award (Best of Show) at Arizona Forward’s 36th Annual Environmental Excellence Awards presented by SRP. Jurists praised Northern Arizona University’s International Pavilion as among the greenest building of its kind in the world.

Some 100 nominations were received for the 36th anniversary of the state’s oldest and most prestigious awards competition, demonstrating not only the priority of green design, but a shared ethic to protect natural resources and build in harmony with the environment.

Three southern Arizona projects earned first-place Crescordia awards, including Tucson Water’s Conservation and Education Program, University of Arizona’s Beyond the Mirage and Tucson Water’s Advanced Oxidation Process Project. Northern Arizona yielded one Crescordia award for NAU’s International Pavilion, which then went on to take top honors of the evening. A total of 12 Crescordia awards were presented.

Jurists selected the NAU International Pavilion as best of show because the iconic project is the university’s first net-zero facility – it produces as much energy as it consumes on-site. By achieving Platinum LEED-NC status (U.S. Green Building Council’s highest honor for its LEED program) combined with being net-zero, this building naturally responds to the imperatives of climate change.

“This project represents buildings of the future,” said Patricia Reiter, senior sustainability scientist at the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute of Sustainability and executive director of the Walton Sustainability Solutions Initiatives, who served as lead judge for the awards competition. “It manifests the connection between responsible engagement with the environment and global citizenship while creating a destination for domestic and international students that encourages engagement across cultural barriers.”

In addition to the Northern Arizona University International 94

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Pavilion, Crescordia winners include:

Northern Arizona University’s International Pavilion earned the President’s Award at Arizona Forward’s 36th Annual Environmental Excellence Awards presented

by SRP. PROVIDED PHOTO

• Tempe Grease Cooperative (City of Tempe) — Governor’s Award for Arizona’s Future • City of Peoria Sports Complex (City of Peoria) — Buildings & Structures (Civic) • Eisendrath House Rehabilitation (City of Tempe) — Buildings & Structures (Historic Preservation) • Kornegay Design (John Douglas Architects)— Buildings and Structures (Industrial & Public Works) • City of Peoria Community Garden (City of Peoria) — Healthy Communities (Sustainable Communities) • 56th Street Iconic Corridor (CK Group) — Healthy Communities (Multimodal Transportation & Connectivity) • El Rio Design Guidelines and Planning Standards (City of Buckeye) — Healthy Communities (Public Policy/Plans) • REI DC3 at PV303 (Merit Partners, Inc.)— Healthy Communities (Sustainable Workplaces) • Tucson Water’s Advanced Oxidation Process Project (Tucson Water) — Energy and Technology Innovation • Scottsdale’s Museum of the West (City of Scottsdale) — Site Development (Public Sector) • Desert Arroyo Park (City of Mesa) — Site Development (Parks and Trails) • Valley Metro Public Art Program for Northwest and Central Mesa Extensions (Valley Metro) — Art in Public Places • Peoria’s Desert Defenders (City of Peoria) — Environmental Education/Communication (Public and Private Sectors) • Beyond the Mirage (The University of Arizona) — Environmental Education/Communication (Educators, Students and Nonprofit Organizations) • Tucson Water’s Conservation and Education Program (Tucson Water) — SRP Award for Environmental Stewardship

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