Coolidge, Arizona

7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 3, ISSUE 3 COOL IDGE , AR I ZONA in the Sun Corridor of the State of Arizona – halfway between Phoenix and Tucson, which offer all of the entertainment and urban amenities of larger centers. While Coolidge has predominately been an agricultural mecca, Gilbert Lopez, Development Services Director, says major expansion plans are in the works and there is community buy-in to the idea of changing some of the rural landscape into a thriving energy and manufacturing sector. Lopez recounts, “When residents see me in town, they are always asking for a wider variety of restaurants and retail options that come with an increased population. People are really excited; they want to see things happen, so it’s really a good time and puts Coolidge in the spotlight.” While industrial and commercial activities may be rapidly expanding, city staff are also well aware that people are looking for outdoor activity and immersing themselves in nature. Coolidge is located in the Sonoran Desert, which offers beautiful hiking and biking trails, incredible views and is perfect for outdoor exploration all year. “The area’s natural wonders offer something for everyone,” says Miller, “It’s absolutely perfect for outdoor activity such as sky diving. There are a lot of small airports in the community, and if you’re an aviation enthusiast you can come here and fly all year-round.” Former farm fields have converted to utility Rick Miller, City Manager