Matrix  developed the Make Marana 2040 General Plan to address rapid population growth and development in Marana, Arizona, while protecting the community’s rich natural resources, cultural heritage, and distinctive sense of place.

Our team evaluated and assisted the Town with a future land use analysis that aligned new investment with current values and goals. We developed a map displaying residential, commercial, and retail land uses, parks, and open space to aid with holistic planning for development projects, both current and in the future. The plan further emphasized opportunities for developing a core downtown area with local businesses and public gathering spaces as the center of socioeconomic engagement; expanding cultural events and recreational opportunities; and developing and protecting treasured archaeological sites as managed heritage tourism destinations that emphasize connections between Marana’s past and present lifeways.

Public engagement was a critical component of plan development and included a number of public workshops, open houses, surveys, and other community events that were held throughout the life of the project. Community members, the Town Planning Commission and Town Council, General Plan Advisory Committee, Marana Citizen’s Forum, other focus groups, and the general public were actively involved in the project, identifying key community assets and development goals.

Make Marana 2040 ultimately provides the community with a graphically oriented Map Atlas that details the history, assets, and vision for the community, as well as the general plan itself that addressed a range of elements and positions Marana for strategic growth and a vibrant future.