Eye on Buckeye | March 2024 | Retail Survey

the official publication of the city of Buckeye

March 2024

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COUNCIL UPDATE

District 3 Representative Michelle Hess on Buckeye

I am excited to present to you the latest edition of our Eye on Buckeye Newsletter, showcasing the ongoing initiatives driving economic growth in our community.

Our featured article highlights the pivotal role of the Economic Development Department in harnessing resident feedback through retail surveys. These surveys work as a tool for understanding the evolving needs and desires of our local population, guiding strategic decisions to bolster economic growth and community development. By leveraging these insights, we aim to ensure that our city’s development remains closely aligned with the aspirations of our residents.

We’re also highlighting the success of Buckeye’s Reduce the Commute Job Fairs, which have been instrumental in connecting residents with local job opportunities and reducing commute times. By facilitating access to employment opportunities closer to home, our goal is to enhance the quality of life for our residents while bolstering economic prosperity in our community.

For more information on this publication, contact John O’Halloran at johalloran@buckeyeaz.gov or call 623.349.6976 BUCKEYE

Eric Orsborn, Mayor

Clay Goodman, Vice Mayor, District 6

Tony Youngker, District 1

Jeanine Guy, District 2

Michelle Hess, District 3

Patrick HagEstad, District 4

Craig Heustis, District 5

We also want to showcase the ongoing impact of the Catalyst Program in driving economic growth and revitalization efforts, mainly in Downtown Buckeye. This program has provided vital support to local businesses, enabling them to enhance their infrastructure and expand their operations. With a solid track record of supporting numerous projects and fostering collaboration between the city and private sector partners, the Catalyst Program continues to be a cornerstone of our economic development initiatives in Downtown.

I’d like to urge all members of our community to shop Buckeye businesses and support the revitalization efforts in Downtown Buckeye. Together, we can create a vibrant and thriving community that offers ample opportunities for residents and businesses alike. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the economic prosperity of Buckeye.

Your Opinion Matters! 2024 Resident Retail Survey

Buckeye is thrilled to announce the launch of our 2024 Retail Survey – your direct line to shaping the future of our community! Your input matters, and this survey gives you the opportunity to tell us exactly what businesses you’d love to see right here in Buckeye.

But it’s not just about sharing your preferences; it’s about making a real impact. The insights gathered from this survey empower strategies to actively attract the businesses you desire most.

Reflecting on the findings from our last survey in 2020, your voices spoke loud and clear. Top retail giants like Costco & Target were at the top of the list. We’re thrilled to have Costco open and operating in Buckeye now and we look forward to welcoming Target to the community as part of the Verrado Marketplace.

Your cravings for dine-in experiences have also been noted, leading to the arrival of fantastic restaurants like Macayo’s, Cold Beer and Cheeseburgers, The Craftsman Cocktails and Kitchen and many more.

You expressed a strong interest in more options related to fitness, automotive services and health and wellness – and we listened. Since then, the community has seen several new auto shops, fitness clubs and medical offices open in our community.

Now, it’s time to keep the momentum going. Your feedback fuels our efforts to continue enhancing Buckeye’s retail landscape. So don’t miss out –head over to buckeyeaz.gov/retailsurvey and let your voice be heard. Together, we’ll shape a vibrant and thriving community that meets all of your needs.

Utilizing Resident Retail Surveys for Economic Growth

In the dynamic landscape of our growing city, it’s important to recognize the value of harnessing insights directly from the community. Retail surveys conducted among residents stand out as a great tool for strategic planning.

These surveys serve as more than just a collection of preferences; they offer a glimpse into the evolving needs and desires of the local population. By analyzing the data generated, we gain a comprehensive understanding of retail trends, identifying gaps in the market and areas of untapped potential.

The significance of this data extends beyond commercial considerations. It serves as a foundation for fostering partnerships between desired businesses and the community, facilitating dialogue that aligns economic growth with community needs.

Moreover, the insights gained from retail surveys inform broader urban development strategies, guiding initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility and promoting equitable distribution of services across neighborhoods.

In essence, by leveraging resident retail surveys, businesses can make informed decisions that drive economic growth while ensuring that the aspirations of its residents are heard.

We want your feedback! Your opinions fuel our efforts to continue enhancing Buckeye’s retail landscape. So don’t miss out – head over to buckeyeaz.gov/retailsurvey and let your voice be heard. Together, we’ll shape a vibrant and thriving community that meets all of your needs.

Gateway Specific Area

Buckeye has launched an exciting new project—the Gateway Specific Area Plan (GSAP). This initiative aims to transform the area known as the Gateway Activity Center, which centers around Verrado Way from I-10 to Yuma Road, into a vibrant live, work and play destination. From residential to research and development, retail to healthcare, the GSAP will shape a dynamic mixed-use environment.

Gateway Specific Area

We’re committed to an inclusive approach, ensuring voices from all corners of our community are heard. Through public meetings, online questionnaires and stakeholder interviews, we’ll gather input on land use, economic development, transportation and more. This collaborative effort, backed by economic analysis, will set the stage for the area’s future. Be on the lookout for community and stakeholder engagement activities coming soon.

Learn more about the project at buckeyeaz. gov/gatewayplan

YUMA RD.

VERRADO WAY

Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn speaks at the “Beam Signing” event to kick off the construction of the Abrazo Medical Center in the Gateway Activity Center.

JOIN US FOR THE

APRIL 9, 2024

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Buckeye’s Reduce the Commute Job Fairs have been an incredible success, connecting residents with opportunities right here in our vibrant community. By bringing job seekers and employers together, we’re not just reducing commutes –we’re creating pathways to improving your quality of life. And we’re thrilled to announce that our fourth installment is just around the corner!

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, April 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., as we gather at West-MEC’s NEX building, conveniently located at 500 N. Verrado Way. This event promises to be bigger and better than ever before, offering a wealth of opportunities for Buckeye residents to kickstart or advance their careers without the hassle of long commutes.

Over 88% of Buckeye residents currently commute outside the city for work! That’s why this job fair is more than just an event –it’s a game-changer for our residents. With Buckeye’s growing industries, finding a fulfilling career close to home has never been easier. Our last job fair garnered over 800 registered residents with over 250 jobs offered!

Attend the Buckeye Job Fair and find a great job with a great company in your own backyard!

Here’s what you can expect at the Reduce the Commute Job Fair:

• Over 50 employers eager to meet talented individuals like you

• More than 2,000 job openings spanning various industries, including manufacturing, distribution and logistics, retail, healthcare, energy, education and more

• On-the-spot interviews for those ready to seize the moment

• Opportunities ranging from entry-level positions to management roles

• Flexible options, including part-time, full-time and seasonal positions

To make the most of this event, come dressed for success and bring along your polished resume. Whether you’re embarking on a new career journey or looking to advance in your field, the Buckeye Reduce the Commute Job Fair has something for everyone.

buckeyeaz.gov/careers

Buckeye’s newest Workforce Initiative for our residents is “Buckeye’s Ready 2 Work”! As part of this initiative, classes and workshops will be offered starting this month for resume writing, interview preparation, basic computer skills and more. These sessions will be hosted at both Buckeye libraries and are designed to assist our residents to get ready to work!

Take the next step toward a career closer to home, register now at buckeyeaz.gov/careers and let’s make your commute a thing of the past. See you there!

buckeyeaz.gov/careers

Boost your Business with Buckeye’s Catalyst Program!

Attention, local business owners of Buckeye! If you’re looking to elevate your establishment to new heights, the city’s renowned Catalyst Program is back and open for applications until March 28, 2024!

This is a fantastic opportunity for existing local businesses to receive support that can be used to spruce up their building façade, landscaping or exterior lighting. Whether you’re aiming to expand your space, enhance its curb appeal or simply give it a fresh new look, this program is for you. Each eligible business can apply for support of up to $50,000 to fuel their project.

Since the Catalyst Program started, the program has supported a total of 45 projects. Overall, we’ve seen a combined investment of $2.6 million from both the program and the private sector. It’s clear that the Catalyst Program is making a real difference in our community.

Don’t miss out, get started today! Visit www.growbuckeye.com/catalyst-program to learn more.

Buckeye is on the move... and so is its public transportation system

As our community grows, the need for efficient and accessible transportation becomes increasingly critical. The Buckeye Transit Study aims to evaluate this need, considering both traditional bus services and innovative alternatives to meet the evolving demands of our residents.

From micro transit to on-demand rideshare programs and subsidized ride-hailing services like taxis, Uber or Lyft, the study will explore a range of flexible transit options. By embracing emerging technologies and transportation models, Buckeye seeks to create a transit system that is not only convenient but also adaptable to the changing needs of our community.

Central to the study’s success is the engagement of our residents. We value your input and encourage you to participate in the survey to share your thoughts on the future of transit in Buckeye. Together, we have the opportunity to build a transportation network that not only connects people to jobs, education and essential services but also serves as a aid for economic growth and development in Buckeye. Join us in shaping the future of transit – take the online survey today at buckeyeaz.gov/transitstudy.