Oro Valley Parks & Recreation secures two grants for $55K
Published on February 06, 2025
ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (Feb. 6, 2025) – The Town of Oro Valley has secured two state grants totaling $55,988 to enhance the archery range at Naranja Park and rehabilitate a historic landmark at Steam Pump Ranch.
This funding will improve an outdoor recreation amenity and help ensure the preservation of Oro Valley’s cultural heritage.
“The Town remains committed to identifying and pursuing new and external funding opportunities to enhance the quality of life for our residents,” said Oro Valley Town Manager Jeff Wilkins. “Whether by improving outdoor facilities like the Naranja Park Archery Range, or preserving historic landmarks like the Procter-Leiber House at Steam Pump Ranch, Oro Valley continues to lead with a vision that values both our history and our future.”
Preserving Oro Valley’s history at Steam Pump Ranch
The Town has been awarded a $30,000 Arizona State Parks Historic Preservation Heritage Fund grant for a Historic Building Condition Assessment (HBCA) of the Procter-Leiber House.
A defining feature of the historic Steam Pump Ranch, located at 10901 N. Oracle Road, the Procter-Leiber House was built in the 1930s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Town will match an additional $20,000, bringing the total project investment to $50,000. This project will assess the building’s condition, provide recommendations for rehabilitation efforts, and help define the nature of the structure’s future use.
“Steam Pump Ranch holds a special place in the hearts of our residents,” said Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Director Roz Epting. “This grant enables us to take the critical first step in preserving a vital piece of that history by evaluating the structure’s needs and developing a plan for its future.”
Enhancing outdoor comfort at the Naranja Park Archery Range
The Town has also received a $25,988 Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) Shooting Range Development grant to construct a new shade structure at the Naranja Park Archery Range, located at 810 W. Naranja Drive.
The Town will match this grant dollar-for-dollar, bringing the current project investment to $51,976. This project will provide relief from the Arizona sun, covering the final 25% of the range's shooting line that is currently exposed to the elements. In addition to the new shade structure, the project includes a paved concrete pad to improve accessibility for all users.
The archery range and archery trails at Naranja Park are among the only public outdoor archery sites in Southern Arizona, offering a fixed target range and two 14-target walking courses.
"This opportunity reflects Parks and Recreation Department’s dedication to creating inclusive, high-quality, recreational opportunities for residents," said Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Matt Jankowski. “The new shade will enhance the experience for visitors who enjoy the many archery programs and activities offered at Naranja Park.”
About Parks and Recreation in Oro Valley
Inspire connection through recreation… it’s in our nature!
The Town of Oro Valley’s Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to fostering health, well-being, and connection for all ages. Through exceptional parks, trails, and recreational programs, the department inspires connection and enhances the quality of life for Oro Valley residents.
To learn more about Oro Valley’s Parks and Recreation programs, visit the Town Parks homepage, browse upcoming events and activities on PlayOV.com, and follow OV Parks on Facebook!