Published on February 02, 2023
You need to take a moment to see what just happened at the State Legislature. It’s an exchange that perfectly encapsulates how Maricopa is setting the tone in addressing the transportation needs of one of the fastest growing cities in the nation. To set the stage, Mayor Nancy Smith and State Representative Teresa Martinez came before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee last week with an important ask: to move $13 million of dollars in already approved, excess design funding over to the City of Maricopa for improvements to SR 238 and John Wayne Parkway within Maricopa city Limits. “The secret is out,” said Mayor Smith after the meeting. “In 20 short years since incorporation, everything that Maricopa has become and has to offer has made this city one of the most desirable destinations in the country for families and for businesses. If we’re going to rise to meet the needs of that growth, we need substantial infrastructure investments.” The challenge in landing the necessary funding comes in convincing a room full of lawmakers to put Maricopa’s needs at the top amid a sea of project requests. Mayor Smith and Rep. Martinez were equal to the task. “Everyone in that room is quickly becoming accustomed with the way we do business in Maricopa. They know when our issues come before them, they’re going to see us right there and that we come prepared. We want to set the standard and make them see that we’re going to be there at every turn, fighting for Maricopa’s interests,” Mayor Smith said. Not only did they win unanimous consent to move to the next stage, but it was clear from Chairman David Cook that the committee wants others to follow Maricopa’s lead. “In explaining my vote, I want to once again thank the Mayor for coming down here,” said Cook. “I want to point out also that what members saw here, as I pull these other bills back in funding, is that… do the work! Rep. Martinez has done an excellent job in presenting you with the information. The Mayor has the information. It’s not just pie in the sky stuff, they’ve got the documentation to back up what they’re doing and they need the flexibility and I vote aye.” During the vote, another committee member quipped he would never oppose one of Rep. Martinez’s bills “for fear of my life”. It was a light-hearted joke that drew laughs from the room, but also a nod to her passion for the causes she believes in. “That’s a powerful ally to have in our corner,” said Mayor Smith. The result of their effort is that the goal of improving the safety and utility of Maricopa’s most essential roadways is taking another promising step forward. Here’s how: The Legislature approved $19 million in 2022 to begin design work for widening 34. This bill (HB2063) proposes to reduce the cost of the design to $6 million with the remaining $13 million being allocated back to the City of Maricopa to make improvements on SR 238 and/or John Wayne Parkway within Maricopa city Limits. There’s still work to do until the money is in hand. The next stop for this bill is the House Appropriations Committee and the objective now is getting it on the Committee’s agenda in the coming weeks. These infrastructure investments would put Maricopa in better position to meet the transportation needs of the growing population and entertain even more interest from eager businesses. Attracting retailers, restaurants and manufactures creates new employment opportunities and allows more residents to work and shop in Maricopa. “We cannot applaud enough the efforts and support of Rep. Martinez, who has quickly proven herself a fierce ally of the interests of Maricopa. I also extend my thanks to City Council and our City staff who work tirelessly to see these efforts come to fruition,” Mayor Smith said.
“I love Maricopa and I will continue to fight for everything that city needs to be successful!" says Rep. Martinez. "Plus I LOVE fighting for our roads, and the 347 is number one!!"
We couldn't agree more.
Click here to watch Mayor Smith and Rep. Martinez state Maricopa’s case before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (the discussion starts at 54:30).