Coke Plant Set for Major Expansion in Tempe

TEMPE, Ariz. — In a significant move for local industry, the Tempe City Council approved redevelopment plans at the Coca-Cola manufacturing facility located near Elliot Road and Interstate 10 earlier this week. The redevelopment aims to enhance Coca-Cola’s production and distribution capabilities.

The approved plans include the construction of 125,000 square feet of new storage space and 62,000 square feet of manufacturing space. Additionally, the project will improve landscaping and allow for a maximum building height increase to 160 feet.

“The existing buildings are not meeting current industry needs. This plan proposes to remove outdated structures to allow for new truck and equipment storage, reconfigured parking, landscape enhancements, and expansion of the manufacturing facility,” according to the planning documents.

The Coca-Cola bottling plant, first certified in 1981, is one of the nation’s largest manufacturers of Coca-Cola products. This expansion reflects the ongoing demand and the need for modernization within the facility.

Locally known as “The Valley,” the Phoenix Metropolitan Area is the largest metropolitan area in the Southwest. The Valley comprises major cities, including Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Tempe, and others. As of the 2020 United States Census, the combined population of these cities stands at 4,845,832, ranking it the 11th largest metropolitan area in the nation.

Maricopa County, integral to this region, is the fourth largest county in the U.S. by population, with 4,485,414 residents. Covering 9,224 square miles, it contains around 63% of Arizona’s total population, making it larger than several U.S. states.

The county boasts one of the largest park systems in the nation, featuring approximately 120,000 acres of public parks, hundreds of miles of trails, and numerous nature centers. Phoenix, the county seat, also serves as Arizona’s state capital and ranks as the fifth most populous city in the United States.

The name of the county honors the Maricopa Native American Tribe, known for their cultural significance in the region.