Maricopa: Past & Present

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Proud History.
A 1694 journal entry by Father Euseblo Francisco Kino records a description of what would become Maricopa Wells. He noted an established agricultural community populated by friendly Native Americans who were established traders.

In the Mid-1800’s, when everything south of the Gila River was still part of Mexico, Maricopa Wells was a dependable source of water along the Gila Trail. It became an important and famous stage stop for the Butterfield Overland Mail Line that stretched from St. Louis to San Francisco.

The 1870’s brought the railroad south of the wells and the ever-adaptable people of the area moved to meet the needs of progress. Phoenix was little more than a tiny village on the Salt River but growing political influence led to the building of a spur line from Maricopa to Phoenix. Today’s Maricopa Road (John Wayne Parkway) lies over the top of that old rail line.

In 1935, Maricopa settled into a slower pace as rail traffic north was halted. Although agricultural production had been consistent through time, it became the catalyst when the rail service was cut. Increased mechanization of agriculture slowed the flow of people. However, it created a hearty farm economy that thrives today.

Farms and pecan groves have given way to new rooftops, paved roads and endless opportunities for residents. In response to unprecedented hypergrowth, the residents of Arizona’s 88th City have voted to adopt its first Municipal General Plan that will ensure that Maricopa achieves its vision for the year 2025.

Based on public input, a Municipal General Plan is a comprehensive document that will guide the long-term growth and development of a city. It is a blue-print that outlines our decisions in relation to future land use, transportation systems, economic development, and community facilities and services.

The first Small Area Transportation Study was adopted in the fall of 2005, and an update study is already underway. “Big City” services and infrastructures have been included in a Future Land Use plan that anticipates as many as 350,000 residents by 2025 in Maricopa’s planning area. With 12.25 million square feet of commercial retail and 1.5 jobs per household, Maricopa plans to become not a commuter town but a great place to live and work.

In order to honor the past while moving into the future of rapid growth, the City has developed a vision for itself in the year 2025: The City of Maricopa is known as “a community with a heart” with a conscience for taking care of its people, its land and all its resources. Maricopa offers educational excellence; is family-oriented with safe neighborhoods and many recreational and cultural opportunities. A strong business community is anchored by a diverse employment base that provides a balance between housing and jobs. Our city has a unique small-town feel, reflective of its agricultural roots and western heritage.

Prosperous Future.

Region: 20 miles south of Phoenix

Size: Approximately 45 square miles

Residential Population: 33,000

Number of Businesses: 350

Average Household Income: $75,000

Education: 61% hold a bachelors degree or higher

Libraries: 1

Golf Courses: 2

Parks: 1

Restaurants: 23

Annual Events: Founder's Day, Salsa Festival, Holiday Homes on Parade, Stagecoach Days, Parent-Child Fishing Derby, Great American Barbecue