Arizona Water Company celebrates Governor Katie Hobbs' signing of the groundbreaking ag-to-urban water legislation, marking a pivotal moment in Arizona's approach to sustainable water management and long-term water security. The newly-signed Senate Bill 1611 was crafted as a result of more than two years of bipartisan negotiations with farmers, homebuilders, … [More]
How Does Tariff Policy Impact Corporate Decision Making?
Earlier this year, President Trump announced a plan to enact tariffs “on nearly every country on Earth.” Although tariff negotiations continue, they will soon be enacted in the U.S. on products made in most other countries. The first question many in corporate leadership ponder is whether sales taxes are due on the amount a tariff adds to a product or the component cost. … [More]
El Mirage Mayor Named MAG Chair
El Mirage Mayor Alexis Hermosillo was elected as chair of the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) Regional Council during the agency’s annual meeting. As the agency’s new chair, Hermosillo said her top priority is ensuring the promises of Proposition 479 become a reality. Mayor Hermosillo, who previously served as MAG Vice Chair, succeeds Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke, who … [More]
Regional Freeway Program Sets Plan for Future Development
Shorter commute times, reduced congestion, and enhanced safety are just a few of the benefits drivers on Valley freeways will see thanks to the regional freeway program. The Freeway Life Cycle Program is funded in part by Maricopa County’s dedicated half-cent sales tax for transportation. Approval of the program establishes priorities and sets schedules for major freeway … [More]
Updated Phoenix Building Code to Include Streamlined Permitting, Provisions for EV Charging
This update reflects Phoenix’s ongoing commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring structures are constructed using best practices and designed for longevity. “Updating the building code is one of the most impactful ways we can promote safety, sustainability, and long-term value for our residents and development community,” said Planning and Development … [More]
Opening of South Central Light Rail Extension/Downtown Hub Celebrated
5.5-mile light rail extension connects South Phoenix to Valley Metro Rail’s new two-line system
More than 5,000 community members, along with federal, state and local officials, gathered to celebrate the opening of the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub light rail expansion in Phoenix. The extension represents an historic milestone for Valley Metro Rail marking the system’s evolution to a 35-mile two-line rail system. The A line now travels east/west and the B line … [More]
Ready to Roll: Celebrating Major Transportation Projects across the Region
Two of the Valley’s most high-profile transportation projects are nearing completion, and the week of June 2–7 marks a regional celebration of this long-awaited progress. The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), in partnership with regional and local agencies, is launching Ready to Roll Week, a celebration showcasing newly completed infrastructure, key safety … [More]
Point in Time Homeless Count Sees Increase in People Living Unsheltered
Total is higher than 2024, but on par with recent years
Results from the 2025 Point in Time Homeless count (PIT count) are in, and the region has seen a 3 percent increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness, in particular among those living unsheltered – sleeping in parks, cars, and other places not meant for habitation. The count was conducted on January 28, 2025, as part of an annual nationwide effort to count … [More]
Maricopa County Partnership Launches Campaign to Display Critical Local Heat Relief Resources
Clear Channel Outdoor and Maricopa County are teaming up for a second year in a row to reduce heat deaths in the region. A new digital billboard campaign will educate and alert residents and visitors across the Valley about critical, local heat relief resources, specifically 200+ local heat relief sites that can help them stay cool during Arizona's dangerous late spring and … [More]
Mesa Boosts Economic Development Department to Shape Economic Future
The City of Mesa Office of Economic Development is adding three dynamic professionals to its team: Amanda Elliott as Deputy Director, Small Business Services and Administration; Benjamin Snow as Deputy Director, Business Development and Hayley Freestone as Economic Development Specialist. These appointments underscore Mesa's continued commitment to fostering economic … [More]
Phoenix Recognized as a National Leader in Affordable Housing Development
Phoenix has earned a spot as one of the top 10 cities leading the way in affordable housing development, according to a recent report by Yardi Matrix. The report underscores Phoenix’s commitment to expanding affordable housing options and the City’s proactive approach to addressing the growing need for accessible living spaces for all residents. The most … [More]
Plans for Additional Tempe Town Lake Recreation Opportunities Begin to Take Shape
If you’ve ever wanted to partner with the City and open a recreation amenity business on Tempe Town Lake, the City of Tempe is looking for great concepts and companies to add to the suite of activities available on the lakeshore as part of exciting next steps for the implementation of the Rio Salado Master Plan. The Rio Salado Master Plan provides a roadmap for additional … [More]
Innovative Partnership Brings 96 New Affordable Family Housing Units to Phoenix
Nearly 100 families in Phoenix have a new, affordable place to call home. UMOM New Day Centers, the City of Phoenix, Maricopa County, the Phoenix IDA and its partners are proud to celebrate the grand opening of La Esperanza Terrace. This landmark affordable housing development was made possible through an innovative, first-of-its-kind agreement between the Isaac School … [More]
South Central-Downtown Hub Light Rail Extension Opens June 7
The City of Phoenix and Valley Metro Rail will soon expand into south Phoenix with the opening of the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub (SCE/DH) light rail project on Saturday, June 7, 2025. A ribbon cutting and community celebration filled with local culture and excitement is being planned for that day to commemorate the milestone. “It’s a big day for … [More]
City of Phoenix Names Chief Sustainability Officer
The City of Phoenix is honored to welcome Carla De La Chapa as the City’s new Chief Sustainability Officer following a nationwide recruitment. De La Chapa will start in her role on April 28th. She arrives in Phoenix after serving in various management and sustainability positions over 19 years with CPS Energy in San Antonio, Texas, the nation’s largest municipally-owned gas and … [More]
Veteran Journalist Joins Phoenix Vice Mayor’s Office
After reporting in Phoenix for more than 20 years, Christina Estes has taken on a new role as Director of Communications for Phoenix Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien. Previously, Estes spent nine years as a Senior Field Correspondent for the local NPR station, where she covered Phoenix City Hall. “For four years, I observed Vice Mayor O’Brien working with her … [More]
Phoenix Opens ‘Flagship’ Housing Facility
The City of Phoenix, RPM Team and Sprung Structures are announced the grand opening of the Phoenix Navigation Center – the City's flagship and largest housing facility, designed to provide immediate and transitional solutions for people experiencing homelessness. "This center will have ample space for people to live and work on the things they need to work on to end their … [More]
City of Phoenix Announces New Deputy City Manager
Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton announced the selection of David Mathews as Deputy City Manager effective March 31, 2025. David currently serves as the City’s Human Resources Director. This appointment follows last month’s promotion of Inger Erickson to Assistant City Manager and completes the City’s executive leadership team. “As … [More]
