Business
City’s Chief Strategist Unveils Game-Changing Opportunities Ahead
City Manager Rick Horst recently addressed the Maricopa City Council, discussing several significant updates regarding economic development during an Aug. 20 meeting.
Horst focused on three key business park sites: the Industrial Triangle, the University of Arizona’s innovation district, and Murphy Park. He emphasized that these projects present considerable opportunities for job creation and tax revenue.
The most notable development discussed was the industrial park planned along Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway at White and Parker Road. Following the approval of Proposition 482 by Maricopa voters, the city awarded a $66.6 million bid to Rail Industrial Partners and Redevco Solutions for the 680-acre site.
“At the end of the day, they will have a class A business park,” Horst stated, noting it would comprise 6 million square feet and be directly served by rail. He predicted this development could generate between 18,000 and 36,000 jobs over time, with an estimated investment of $1.4 billion.
Additionally, the University of Arizona’s initiative for an “area of innovation” on 900 unused acres at the Maricopa Agricultural Center seeks to establish a tech park, a satellite campus, student housing, and commercial development. While discussions have faced delays, Horst expressed optimism following the appointment of Suresh Garimella as university president, hoping it would revitalize plans for the innovation district.
“We hope that will revitalize our efforts with the Area of Innovation at the UofA property,” Horst noted. The projected investment could potentially yield up to $95 billion for Pinal County.
Lastly, updates were provided on Murphy Park, where the Planning and Zoning Commission approved a rezoning initiative last fall to allow for more diversified land use. Developer CVL Consultants aims to reserve approximately half the area for business park development, accommodating both smaller and larger properties based on demand. Although specifics on residential units remain unclear, preliminary reports suggest the potential for up to 1,870 homes in the community.