EPA helping Apache Junction officials identify prime infill spots
Jotting down likes and dislikes about Apache Junction and placing adhesive dots on wall maps where city officials should focus efforts to bring businesses and residences to vacant parcels were some of the activities a consultant for the EPA had local residents do at a meeting last week.
Apache Junction is one of 25 cities nationwide to receive assistance this year in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program, which includes assistance in planning for the future. Officials held a March 29 meeting for the public and one March 30 for city staff members and other stakeholders to look for new ideas in addressing infill – or vacant land – development in the city.
“As we think about infill, think about the big picture – what is it that builds the base for a community? It’s wonderful to have retail. It’s wonderful to have some of that initial investment,” Apache Junction City Manager Bryant Powell said at the March 29 meeting. “Long-term, what kinds of jobs? Where do we want those jobs to be?
