The City of Maricopa Planning and Zoning Commission met last week to discuss a significant proposed change to the city’s land use plan that could transform over 716 acres into an industrial and employment hub.
The proposed amendment would change the designation of land south of Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway from residential and open space to “Employment” zoning, potentially creating what city officials called a “vibrant industrial core” with rail access.
“We often hear from the public that the city all we want to do is build houses and bring people, and we’re not working the other end of the spectrum,” noted Commission Chairman Bill Robertson during the discussion. “This shows that the city is clearly working the other end of the spectrum to bring employment opportunities to the community.”
Planning Manager Rick Williams presented the proposal to the commission. According to the staff report, about 84% of Maricopa citizens commute to the Phoenix Metropolitan Area for work. The proposed employment zone aims to create local job opportunities and reduce these long-distance commutes.
The land in question includes areas around the Santa Rosa Wash, which has recently received approval from FEMA to reduce its designated floodplain area. This change would make more land available for development while maintaining a corridor for a planned regional trail system.
“The wash corridor has been identified as part of a regional trail system,” Williams explained. “Future developments on both sides of the wash will be required to construct and maintain the trail system adjacent to their developments.”
The site’s proximity to the Union Pacific Railroad makes it particularly attractive for industrial development, with possibilities for railroad spurs to service future businesses. The area also has access to major transportation routes including Interstate 10, Interstate 8, and State Route 347.
The commission meeting was the first of two required public meetings on the amendment. No public comments had been received at the time of the meeting. A second Planning and Zoning Commission meeting is scheduled for December 23, with a City Council hearing to follow on January 21, 2025.
The proposed Employment designation would allow for various types of development including light manufacturing, business parks, professional offices, and medical facilities, while prohibiting residential uses.
