In 2006, the Smoke-Free Arizona Act outlawed smoking within most enclosed public spaces and places of employment primarily to reduce the exposure of individuals to harmful secondhand smoke. The purpose of the Maricopa County Smoke-Free Parks Policy Assessment is three-fold: 1) to evaluate the extent and health impact of tobacco usage in public parks; 2) analyze smoke-free parks policies that have been proposed in cities, counties, and states nationwide; and 3) to assess the feasibility of introducing and implementing similar policies in Arizona, and in Maricopa County in particular.

The Maricopa County Regional Trail System is a collection of trail corridors under the jurisdiction and control of many different agencies. Maricopa County has identified the Sun Circle and Maricopa Trails as its highest priorities for completion. At any time, should the opportunity arise, lower priority segments may be developed. The County’s priority designation may or may not coincide with the priorities of any agency whose trails have been identified as components of the regional system.