In its second and final hearing last week, the Maricopa Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved plans for what’s known as the Maricopa Industrial Triangle, a major employment hub proposed for the southeast portion of the city. [For details on the initial hearing, click here]
The Major General Plan Amendment will transform approximately 716.5 acres of land currently designated for residential and open space use into an Employment zone, aimed at reducing the city’s heavy commuter traffic to Phoenix and creating local job opportunities.
At the follow-up meeting, Planning Manager Rick Williams focused on addressing flood control concerns, providing new details about improvements to the Santa Rosa Wash area that runs through the project site. The improvements include nearly 20 miles of channel enhancements along the Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa washes, featuring a large regional basin and an interceptor channel. These changes will prevent flood waters from flowing over the Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway and remove approximately 8 square miles from the flood plain.
Williams also emphasized plans for a regional trail system along the wash corridor. Future developers will be required to construct and maintain trail segments adjacent to their properties, ensuring recreational access alongside industrial development.
Since the commission’s first hearing, the city completed its required 60-day agency review period. The Maricopa-Stanfield Irrigation & Drainage District provided the only significant feedback, raising concerns about their canals in the area. The city has committed to working with the irrigation district on specific solutions during future development phases.
The proposal, which would allow for light manufacturing, business parks, professional offices, and medical facilities, will next go before the City Council for final consideration on January 21, 2025.
