Joe Foss Shooting Complex is making a comeback, thanks to a new partnership between Maricopa County and Buckeye.
The two government bodies have announced a partnership to reopen the Joe Foss Shooting Complex at Buckeye Hills Regional Park, which has been closed to the public since July. The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved an Intergovernmental Agreement on Wednesday Dec. 18, granting Buckeye the rights to manage the popular shooting range.
“We heard loud and clear: people want this range back open to the public as soon as possible,” Supervisor Steve Gallardo, who represents District 5 where the range is located, said, adding that they wanted to do it right. “By choosing the City of Buckeye, we get a long-term agreement with a community partner who has a stake in the complex’s success.”
The agreement gives Buckeye the responsibility to operate the facility for both law enforcement training and public use, while also maintaining and repairing the range to meet safety requirements. Public access will be available at least three days a week, though a reopening date has yet to be announced, according to a press release.
The Joe Foss Shooting Complex, located in Buckeye Hills Regional Park, has long been a staple for both recreational shooters and law enforcement training in the region. Named after World War II flying ace and Medal of Honor recipient Joe Foss, the range has served as a safe, controlled environment for firearms enthusiasts and professionals alike. Before its closure in July, the facility was managed under a Special Use Agreement that expired, leaving the community eager for its return. Known for its scenic desert setting and state-of-the-art features, the complex has been a key resource for promoting responsible firearm use and outdoor recreation.
Outgoing County Supervisor Clint Hickman highlighted the county’s efforts to prepare the range for its new management.
“Maricopa County Parks and Recreation has worked diligently over the last several months to identify and make needed repairs to the range, and we are confident it is in good condition for law enforcement training and, eventually, public use,” Hickman said.
Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn emphasized the facility’s role in enhancing the city’s outdoor recreation offerings.
“The Joe Foss Shooting Range adds another exceptional recreational amenity for our residents while supporting the outdoor adventure goals outlined in our Parks and Recreation Master Plan,” Orsborn said.
The Buckeye City Council approved the 20-year management agreement earlier this week. Remediation work on the range, conducted by an independent firm, is set to be completed by year’s end. Updates on the reopening will be posted at buckeyeaz.gov/joefoss.
