ANNIVERSARY
Maricopa: One community united for the future BY CITY MANAGER RICK HORST
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N THE BUSTLING CROSSROADS of Honeycutt and Porter Roads, and once more at the juncture of Honeycutt and Plainview,
Maricopa’s residents are met with a delightful sight: two vibrant signal boxes standing as distinctive landmarks. The first showcases a helmeted astronaut, while the second features a submerged deep- sea diver, both set against captivating backdrops blending elements of space, ocean and desert. When these artistic installations made their debut last year, they prompted a question in the community: “What do these figures signify in Maricopa?” While artistic expression often invites interpretation, the artist behind these creations, who chooses to remain anonymous, sheds light on the inspiration behind these works. He explains he sought to capture the essence of the people who call Maricopa home. What common threads unite them? Often, they are drawn to Maricopa by the allure of affordable housing, promising job opportunities and a safe haven to raise their families. Over just two decades, these advantages have enticed more than 70,000 people from across the nation to uproot their lives and embrace Maricopa's ever-expanding desert retreat. In their pursuit of dreams, this city’s residents embody the same resolute spirit as astronauts and deep-sea divers, epitomizing determined exploration. In their respective domains, they are pioneers, venturing into the far reaches of the universe and the uncharted depths of the ocean. Likewise, Maricopa's residents are pioneers, undeterred by the challenges of the harsh desert environment. They are trailblazers, innovators, groundbreakers and trendsetters, shaping the city's rich heritage and providing the foundation for their homes. It's no surprise a community that has captured the hearts of so many in such a short time now stands at the precipice of a new frontier in expansion. Today, residents witness rapid and tangible signs of progress in their city. The completion of the once seemingly unattainable overpass on John Wayne Parkway has unleashed Maricopa's full potential. The city has seen a surge in retail offerings, with new shopping outlets and restaurants springing up. Maricopa celebrated the opening of its first 24-hour hospital and
InMaricopa.com | October 2023
October 2023 | InMaricopa.com
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