Candace BarnettePima County’s Board of Supervisors in Arizona approved a $1.7 billion budget for fiscal year 2026 (FY26), prioritizing infrastructure, housing and community programs.
The board unanimously approved the budget on June 17, with supervisors voting separately on each component.
More than $200 million will go toward the county’s Total Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which spans infrastructure improvements across multiple departments. Major projects funded through the CIP include:
- $62.9 million for regional wastewater reclamation, including facility upgrades, sewer extensions and pipe rehabilitation projects that support public health.
- $42 million in renovations, restorations and upgrades to facilities, such as courthouse improvements, HVAC replacements and historic restorations like Teatro Carmen.
- $26 million for flood control, funding channel improvements, levee construction and erosion protection during major storms.
- $17.5 million for transportation, covering road widening projects on Valencia Road and bridge improvements.
- $11.7 million for library renovations and expansions, with upgrades to Himmel Park and Mission libraries, broadband enhancements and EV charging stations.
Apart from the CIP, supervisors are allocating $53.2 million for the county’s Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) program. The program funds critical infrastructure projects—like road repairs, affordable housing and open space—by using General Fund revenues instead of issuing new debt. Funds allocated through PAYGO for the upcoming fiscal year support both new investments and repayment of prior capital borrowing.
Over the past five years, the board has committed $324.4 million to road pavement preservation. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has fixed more than 1,000 miles of unincorporated county roads over the life of the 10-year program. The FY26 budget allocates $25 million through PAYGO to support additional street preservation efforts.
Another $5 million in PAYGO funds will support affordable housing initiatives. That funding is separate from an additional $8.5 million PAYGO budgeted to support gap financing and underwriting of new projects.
Beyond capital projects, the budget invests in a range of services that support health, public safety, education and economic opportunity. County leaders say the FY26 budget reflects a balanced approach to immediate needs and long-term priorities.
Image by Michelle Pitzel from Pixabay
