2024 Unveiled: The 12 Game-Changing Business Announcements

Maricopa Welcomes a Wave of New Businesses in 2023

Maricopa is witnessing significant growth as multiple businesses announce plans to establish themselves in the area. Buffalo Wild Wings, a popular sports bar chain, has submitted plans for a 7,800-square-foot restaurant at the intersection of Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway and Stonegate Road, adjacent to The Home Depot. This location is part of a larger development that will also include Circle K and Starbucks.

In June, Aldi, the German discount grocer, revealed plans for its fifth supermarket in Maricopa. The new store will be located in the Southbridge Shopping Center, near a Lowe’s that is currently under construction. While construction and opening timelines are still uncertain, this addition represents a significant boost to local grocery options.

Later in July, the City of Maricopa initiated bidding for a 680-acre industrial park, anticipating potential growth in the area. Major companies, including Envision Waste Services and a significant plastics renewal firm, are showing interest in the land. This industrial site, equipped with a railroad spur, is expected to support industries focused on waste processing and energy production, with projected job salaries ranging from $50,000 to $110,000. Officials estimate that this development could create up to 37,000 new jobs over time. A $1 billion smart rail project is also in the works, promising further economic expansion.

In the same month, Elevate Trampoline Park announced plans for a 25,000-square-foot facility near John Wayne and Alterra Parkways. This family-oriented entertainment venue will include indoor dining and ample trampoline space, addressing the community’s growing demand for child-friendly activities.

August brought news of a substantial solar farm project spanning nearly 1,100 acres in Hidden Valley, being developed by Sawtooth Development Co. for Hidden Valley Ranch Partners. Once rezoning is approved by Pinal County, the site will be transformed from residential to green energy production and managed by Copia Power. This facility is poised to provide clean energy for about 95,000 homes.

September saw progress on Duke’s Roadhouse, a highly anticipated honky-tonk restaurant slated for Maricopa and Edwards Roads. The latest designs included a retro neon sign and improvements to local infrastructure to connect to the upcoming Southbridge Marketplace. The venue engaged with the community by sponsoring Maricopa’s fall concert series.

Also in September, Colorado-based Nirvana Center confirmed plans for a cannabis dispensary at a strip mall in Hidden Valley. This will mark the third cannabis shop in the area, pending final approvals from local zoning authorities.

InMaricopa made headlines in October, securing two first-place awards at the Arizona Media Association’s Better Newspapers Contest. Their investigative reporting series received recognition for uncovering local issues, showcasing the importance of quality journalism in the community.

As the year drew to a close, PHX Surf aimed to evolve its concept into a wellness oasis, aiming for a groundbreaking in early 2025. The nearby Lowe’s Home Improvement began work on a massive 139,000-square-foot store at Southbridge Marketplace, entering a competitive retail arena against The Home Depot.

Furthermore, November marked plans for Maricopa’s first 7-Eleven, proposed by De Rito Partners. This convenience store will include gas pumps and parking facilities, addressing the needs of local commuters.

Lastly, Action Behavior Centers received approval to open a facility along Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway, aimed at providing therapy for children on the autism spectrum, signaling additional support for local families.

As Maricopa continues to expand its business landscape, the community looks forward to the potential job creation and enhanced quality of life these new establishments promise.