Maricopa County and the City of Buckeye are announcing a new partnership to reopen the Joe Foss Shooting Complex at Buckeye Hills Regional Park.
An Intergovernmental Agreement, approved unanimously this week by the Board of Supervisors, gives Buckeye exclusive rights to manage the popular shooting range, which has been closed for public use since early July when a Special Use Agreement with the previous operator expired.
Under the agreement, the City of Buckeye will operate and manage the facility for both law enforcement training and public use. The city will also assume responsibility for maintenance, repairs, and any necessary capital improvements to ensure the facility meets all local, regional, state and federal safety requirements. The Agreement requires the City to open the range to the public at least three days a week.
The Buckeye City Council approved the 20-year management use agreement with Maricopa County Parks and Recreation on Tuesday.
“The Joe Foss Shooting Range adds another exceptional recreational amenity for our residents while supporting the outdoor adventure goals outlined in our Parks and Recreation Master Plan,” said Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn. “This facility provides a safe and controlled environment for recreational shooters, helping preserve our deserts and ensuring a more responsible use of outdoor spaces.”
Since the complex’s closure, Maricopa County Parks has worked closely with an independent firm on range remediation, and work is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year.
The City of Buckeye will staff the complex and determine when and how to open the range. Residents can find updates here.