Chamber expansion, remodeling will accommodate more visitors

In partnership with the city of Maricopa, the Maricopa Chamber of Commerce is expanding and remodeling its office to have a more visible presence with residents, visitors and prospective businesses looking at Maricopa.

“We’re working to present a more professional atmosphere to promote local business and to be more accessible to residents and for visitors as a tourism center,” said chamber office manager Diane Morrow. “We will still have the maps that are very popular and our display center that promotes Maricopa will get a new look with mahogany shelves.”

The chamber added a receptionist, LauRae Divito, to assist with the expected increase in visitors. Between 150 to 300 visitors come in to the chamber each month, but Morrow believes with construction of the new Banner Health Center and Central Arizona College campus, more walk-in traffic is likely.

“It’s imperative that we have a visitors center that positively represents the community as Banner and CAC are on their way,” Morrow said.

The office will expand by almost 300 square feet and include computer stations with desks, office chairs and bookcases donated by Orbitel Communications. Morrow said the computer stations will be open to residents or businesses.

Terry Shaffer, owner of Superior Contracting, is donating his time to help with the remodeling. He has provided the chamber with about 40 hours of labor and is working with city inspectors to have everything finished by the end of the month.  The chamber has remained open during its regular 9 a.m.-5 p.m. business hours during the remodeling.

“Upon completion, probably around the beginning of August, the chamber will plan an event to showcase the new look,” Morrow said. “We’re excited for the construction aspect to finish so that we can begin decorating.”   

At a glance:
44870 Hathaway Ave., Suite, 5
520-568-9573