Pathway Section Completed

Pathway extension makes walking easier.

Another segment of the Los Lagos Vistas Perimeter Pathway project was completed last week between Circles 4 and 5. The work by D&D Landscaping included irrigation line repairs and cutting away plants to clear the path.

The next targeted phase is through the grassy hill by Circle 4. Work should begin in mid-July.

The pathway project began five years ago by volunteers. City water conservation grants expedited completion by enabling hiring of a landscape contractor. The project removes grass to reduce irrigation requirements. It also includes some desert plants and trees.

Much of the path is compacted minus dirt. Minus dirt is a mix of smaller crushed rock, dust, and dirt that bind gravel together for better compaction, durability, and walkability.

About a mile in length from beginning to end, the path starts near the entrance to Iverson Park, wraps along the wash near Circles 1 and 2, and the eastern property line, around Circles 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7, terminating near the tennis courts in the Circle 7 parking area.

Grass removal became a major strategy to reduce water bills after the city kept increasing rates in recent years. After two years of HOA dues increases to cover increased costs, past HOA boards worked to attack skyrocketing water and sewer rates by reducing grass irrigation.

Several large grassy areas by the pool were rocked over, as were areas along Montana Vista and several circles. Some circles installed attractive planters with desert plants in grassy areas.

HOA President Jason Hart said he is looking forward to when the HOA can call grass removal complete. He said the Board has heard residents’ concerns about how attractive the complex’s grass is and their desires to keep the grass we have healthy and attractive.

He said the city grant will go a long way to balance aesthetics and high-water bills.