JOAQUIN MURRIETA PARK
Joaquin Murrieta Park
Renovation and State-of-the-Art Irrigation System Installation to Sustain Tucson’s Iconic Green Space

Photo from City of Tucson
Project Description
The City of Tucson has embarked on an ambitious renovation project for Joaquin Murrieta Park, an iconic green space on the city’s westside. A community hub for decades, the park has served as a recreational destination for families, sports enthusiasts, and residents alike.
Infrastructure wear and tear necessitated a complete overhaul. Now closed for extensive renovations, the park is expected to reopen in late 2024 with an impressive array of new features.
The renovation, spearheaded by Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and the City Council, is transforming the park into a modern recreation facility. The project includes a new four-field baseball and softball complex, a splash pad, two playgrounds, new walking paths, and parking improvements.
A key aspect of the renovation is the installation of a state-of-the-art irrigation system to ensure the park remains green and inviting, even during Tucson’s arid summers. This includes Griswold DWS Series Dirty Water Irrigation Valves, chosen for their ability to handle reclaimed and dirty water, a vital feature for sustainable water management in public parks.
Challenges and Solutions
One of the project’s main challenges was updating the park's irrigation system to meet modern sustainability standards while minimizing downtime and maintenance costs. Tucson’s water conservation efforts rely heavily on reclaimed or “dirty” water, which requires specialized equipment to handle potential contaminants.
Griswold DWS Series Dirty Water Valves solved this challenge. They feature a self-cleaning mechanism that eliminates the need for filters or screens, along with durable bronze construction for a longer lifespan and reduced maintenance. The valves also include a “slow to open – slow to shut” design, preventing water hammer and ensuring reliable irrigation flow across the park.
Benefits and Outcomes
The inclusion of Griswold’s DWS Series Dirty Water Valves provides multiple benefits for Joaquin Murrieta Park:
- Reduced Water Waste & Improved Plant Health: Slow-closing valves prevent pipe damage, lower long-term maintenance needs, and ensure the park remains lush and healthy year-round.
- Reliable Operation with Reclaimed Water: Valves are engineered to handle dirty or reclaimed water efficiently, supporting Tucson’s sustainability goals.
- Lower Maintenance Costs: Self-cleaning design minimizes service time, reduces operational downtime, and ensures consistent irrigation performance.
- Enhanced Community Experience: These improvements ensure Joaquin Murrieta Park remains a vibrant, functional space for families, athletes, and residents, even during Tucson’s driest months.
Products Used
DWS Series Dirty Water Valves: These valves were selected for their ability to handle reclaimed water, durable bronze construction, self-cleaning mechanism, and a five-year warranty, making them ideal for municipal irrigation projects like Joaquin Murrieta Park.
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