CONCLUSIONS

LIMITATIONS OF WORK

In conclusion, the stated goals and objectives in developing a master plan for the Tubac Presidio State Park were fulfilled, and though this project was limited in scope by the duration of the project period, it will provide a framework for any future infrastructure or interpretive undertakings at the park.

As per eventual implementation of the site plan, the park itself is limited by the lack of funding from the Arizona State Parks system, which affects all aspects of the operation by the park. It also limits the ability of the park to undertake major infrastructure projects or changes without having to raise funds for the specific project.

The park is currently run by volunteers, and there is a limit to the operations by the park as there is a possibility that the park may one day be reincorporated in to the Arizona State Parks system. This potential reincorporation presents a possible conflict between the values and undertakings of the current volunteer organization versus the priorities and mission of the State Parks as a whole. Any success by the park represents an increased potential of the Tubac Presidio State Park being brought back into the fold. Not succeeding, however, is not an option for the park, and this represents a significant challenge and delicate balance to be maintained by the leadership at the Tubac Presidio State Park.

The remains that have undergone an archaeological excavation are represented in the interpretive areas in the park; however, further archaeological explorations have not been conducted since the initial excavation in 1974. Further excavations may reveal addition information that cannot be anticipated, and thus cannot be addressed in this proposal.

Furthermore, this proposed Master Plan anticipates the future incorporation of the private home located near the Presidio Drive being acquired by the Tubac Presidio State Park, as is their plan. However, until this happens, the master plan will not be able to be realized in its entirety.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The Tubac Presidio State Park has a unique set of challenges, although they may become more common in the future. Budget cuts have limited the park to relying on volunteers and fundraising for the day-to-day maintenance and operations of the park. This presents quite a challenge, to keep the volunteers interested and participating, and to keep funding coming consistently into the future. Without some sort of return of state funding, the park will continually have to be actively pursuing the activities necessary to keep the park open to the public.

Going forward, the park should attempt to secure a more consistent source of funding, perhaps by campaigning to be re-incorporated into the existing Arizona State Parks system. One enticement to reincorporation efforts would be for the park to diversify its income stream, through event and party rentals, special programming, or other endeavors. The gift shop is currently serving as an essential source of income generation; more quantity and diversity of items in the gift shop might help this undertaking, as well as advertising themselves to visitors to the village of Tubac and not just the State Park as a source of unique gift items. These undertakings aid in the overall goal of making the park self-sustaining and could serve as an enticement to the state park system.

Another recommended action is for the site to again welcome in the surrounding community. Although the park depends heavily on entry fees to pay for daily operations, this disadvantages local residents who used to consider the park to be a recreational amenity. Opening the park to the public on specific dates or times to be considered for recreation would be an important step to reconnecting the park with the surrounding community.

Diversifying the message of the park is the final recommendation. Currently a historic park designed towards the stewardship of the historic buildings and building remains, Tubac Presidio State Park is uniquely positioned to serve as a cultural interpreter and go-between for the greater Arizona-Sonora area, providing interpretive exhibits, programming, and organized trips that highlight the strong cultural and historic ties between the two sides of the border.