The year 2002 marked the largest outbreak to date in the world as the virus rapidly spread across the U.S. Maricopa County has been spared the burden of widespread WNV-illness thus far, however the area is home to a viable mosquito population, many species of migratory birds and a large human populace with a propensity for outdoor activities making arrival of the virus inevitable and advanced preparations invaluable.

It is important to note that the Rio Verde Foothills Area Plan is not a document that represents ultimate buildout as many municipal general plans typically do. Rather, it prepares for and accommodates growth over the next ten to fifteen years, but will be reexamined and updated periodically to reflect current conditions and changes. While not a complete solution, the Rio Verde Foothills Area Plan helps address the effects of growth and development by enhancing cooperation between government agencies, citizens, and other affected interests, and by considering regional implications.