In the 1907 Official Map of the Townsite of Naco, Maps and Plats Book 0, page 68 and Book 1, page 138-139, the streets and alleyways were dedicated to the public, including the unnamed Friend Drive. In the past, several land exchanges have occurred within this segment of Friend Drive to alleviate traffic issues as well as the encroachment of the buildings into the public right-of-way. In 1998, Resolution 98-70 established Friend Drive as a County Highway. As such in order to vacate this portion state laws require advertisement and a public hearing to abandon the highway status.

The applicant, Naco Fire Department has requested the abandonment of the portion of Friend Drive as it adjoins their parcel. In recent years Friend Drive has become a high traffic area for illegal border crossing as well as drug smuggling. The fire depart has been tagged with graffiti, their equipment has been vandalized and their fence has been knocked down on numerous occasions. Friend Drive right-of-way has also become a parking lot for semi-trucks doing business with the adjacent warehouse. There have been times when the fire department has been unable to access their property or necessary firefighting equipment. The fire department has stated that if the abandonment is approved they will erect a fence along the property line to alleviate many of their prior concerns. The alleyway deeded in Fee# will remain open for utility companies and easement will be drafted for neighboring property owners to access their parcels.

The County Engineer recommends setting a public hearing for June 28^th, 2016 to vacate the highway status and abandon the public right-of-way.

If the recommendation is approved, Highway staff will advertise as required by statute and a public hearing will be held June 28th to consider the request.

If the abandonment is not approved, the portion of Friend Drive will remain a public right-of-way.