CalPortland Shared-Use Path Named APWA Project of the Year

Published on August 19, 2025

MARANA- The Santa Cruz River Shared-Use Path at CalPortland has earned another honor, the American Public Works Association’s 2025 Project of the Year for Structures under $5 million.

The Town of Marana partnered with the Pima County Regional Flood Control District, CalPortland, Psomas, Borderland, and multiple utilities to bring the project to life. The 1.8-mile path, which opened to the public in September 2024, serves as the final connection of the Chuck Huckelberry Loop.

“The CalPortland Shared Use Path was an extraordinary project connecting 30,000 residents in North Marana to the entire 137-mile Chuck Huckelberry Loop trail system,” said Parks and Recreation Director Jim Conroy. “The coordination for this project between the Town of Marana, Pima County Flood Control District, CalPortland Cement Plant, PSOMAS Engineering and Borderland Construction was a great example of the very best elements that a public project can produce for the community they serve.”

"We’re deeply grateful for our partnership with the Town of Marana in bringing the CalPortland Shared Use Path to life,” said Alejandro Angel, PhD, PE, PTOE, RSP2I – Vice President, Corporate Director of Engineering. “This technically demanding project, which included completing the connection of 32 miles along the Santa Cruz River, stands as a testament to what can be achieved through shared vision, resilience, and teamwork. Together, we’ve created a lasting asset for future generations of the Marana community.” 

“Borderland is honored to have partnered with the Town of Marana and Psomas on this transformative project,” said Clint Elder, Vice President, Borderland. “Their expertise and responsiveness enabled us to navigate field changes seamlessly and deliver an outcome we can all be proud of. We are excited to see how this project will continue to serve and shape the community for years to come.”

Public Works Director Fausto Burruel, Town Attorney Jane Fairall, and Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Wayne Barnett joined Psomas in accepting the award at the APWA Arizona Awards Luncheon on July 21, 2025.

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE (Produced by PSMOAS)

View the 2025 award winners here. (Photos by: BrainDance Productions)