by Lynn Parsons, Executive Director, Coolidge Chamber of Commerce
Coolidge is on the rise and has experienced significant economic and population growth in the last few years. As of 2024, the estimated population stands at more than19,000, up from just over 13,000 a few short years ago, in 2020.
Leading the way on the economic development front are local retail and services companies, Inland Port Arizona (IPAZ) and the Coolidge Airport. New coffee shops, restaurants, gyms and health service providers have sprung up among Coolidge’s legacy businesses.
IPAZ bustles with activity. Recent road improvements were named Project of the Year by the Arizona chapter of the American Public Works Association. Nikola Motor Company employs hundreds at its state-of-the-art facility to produce a hydrogen semi-truck being adopted by major companies throughout North America, including Walmart. Additionally, Procter and Gamble is targeting a 2024 groundbreaking for their new fabric care production facility at IPAZ that will employ 500.
Activity at the Coolidge Airport continues to soar.
A recently completed runway refurbishment project along with a new power line are helping to attract new companies, such as eCube, and support the growth of the existing companies and agencies.
In additional to commercial operations, Coolidge Airport hosts a fly-in on the first Saturday of the month from October until April with a buffet style pancake breakfast served by the Coolidge Lions Club. Pilots from throughout the country fly in to show off their planes, with a wide array of aircrafts from vintage and unique flyers to modern day jets and sometimes, experimental flying exhibits on display!
On the horizon, the city is planning a number of projects including additional infrastructure improvements, enhancements to public safety and a new regional park. The nearly 70-acre site will offer opportunities for hosting events and bring the community together with amenities that could include a splash pad, playground, shade ramadas, sports fields and courts for sand volleyball, basketball and pickleball.
Coolidge is seeing a surge in tourism. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, nestled in the heart of Coolidge, stands as a silent witness to centuries past. Last year, a record 113,000 people sought solace among these ancient stones. Its four stories, now weathered and worn, evoke whispers of ceremonies, laughter and dreams etched into the caliche walls.
Coolidge is thriving, and we’d love to welcome you as resident, visitor or new business.
