Plan Elements Descriptions

Environmental Planning Element (Conservation, Natural Resources, and Energy) - This Section addresses goals related to open space, recreation, and natural resource conservation. Goals and Policies will address the preservation of views of the Superstition Mountains as well as identifying areas of the city that should be conserved.

Parks, Recreation and Open Space Element - This Section addresses goals related to the Planning of Parks and Recreation Facilities. The City of Apache Junction seeks to provide these community amenities to establish a sense of place and promote healthy lifestyles. Goals and Policies will address the future planning of Parks and Recreation Assets within the city.

Neighborhood Preservation, Revitalization, and Housing Element - This Section addresses topics related to Housing and Neighborhood livability. State law requires the establishes programs that ensure the elimination of substandard dwelling conditions, for the improvement of housing quality, to provide variety and affordability and for the provision of adequate sites for housing.

Downtown AJ – Conservation, Rehabilitation, and Redevelopment Element- This Section addresses topics related to the development of Downtown Apache Junction.  The City of Apache Junction strives to partner with private developers to provide successful development. Elements such as a diversity of housing densities, business districts, dining options, and walkability are essential when planning for such development efforts. Goals and Policies will help facilitate design guidelines and density requirements.

Economic Development Element - This Section addresses goals related to economic development and Apache Junction’s financial state.  The City of Apache Junction seeks to provide a strong local economy that will support a range of uses from traditional shopping, diversity in dining as well as recreational tourism. Goals and Policies will address future planning and economic initiates to facilitate this type of development.

Public Safety, Services, and Facilities Element - This Section addresses Public Safety services such as Law Enforcement, Fire and Medical Services, Libraries, Schools and Utilities. The City intends to provide adequate public services as our population increases. Goals and Policies will address future locations for Fire, Police Stations, Libraries and Schools to name a few.

Circulation Element - This Section addresses topics related to Apache Junction’s Transportation Network. The City is committed to providing Safety, Efficiency, Aesthetics, and Integration when planning for the City’s Transportation Network.  Goals and Policies will address how the city plans for streets, bike lanes, and street beautification projects.

Water Resources Element - This Section addresses goals related to Apache Junction water resources. Topics include supply, conservation, quality, sustainability, protection, and groundwater recharge. Goals and Policies will address future water use, conservation, and infrastructure growth planning.

Growth Area Element - This Section addresses goals related to overall development as well as the growth and development of critical areas within the City of Apache Junction. Goals and Policies will address how the city facilitates future development in crucial areas in the City’s Planning Area.

Cost of Development/Capital Improvements - This Section addresses financing related to Apache Junction’s forecasted growth projections. It is the purpose of this Section to outline the Goals and Policies that would require new development to pay a fair share of cost for public services.

Land Use Element - This Section addresses topics related to the use of land and design. These topics are critical to the many qualities of the community, including aesthetics and function. The Apache Junction Community recognizes the importance of natural and cultural resource conservation as well as the built environment in both residential and commercial purposes. Goals and Policies will address how the city facilitates future development while preserving natural ecosystems.  

Intergovernmental Coordination Element - This Section addresses agreements between government entities such as the State of Arizona and other governmental entities such as the school district and fire districts as well as adjacent neighboring municipalities. These agreements provide a mutual benefit of services and or duties between government entities to avoid duplication of services.  Topics can range from funding, sharing of emergency services and maintenance of public right-of-way. Goals and Policies will ensure these agreements benefit the residents of Apache Junction.