Maricopa saw several businesses come to town in 2018, many of them in new buildings. Our readers expressed excited anticipation over the possibilities of more shopping or dining opportunities and possible jobs as well as a bit of impatience with the whole process. Here are some of our top-read economic development stories:


5. Denny’s Restaurant caused much curiosity during its construction on a seemingly small lot and then more enthusiasm when it started hiring. It finally opened its doors in February near the southeast corner of John Wayne Parkway and Smith-Enke Road.


4. Those involved weren’t happy about the situation, but readers were amused when the new Dollar Tree opened in May and then immediately had to close for a couple of hours as city inspectors did their job.


3. With the many businesses opening, there were also some closures. That included Zoyo Yogurt in Maricopa Station. However, readers were happy to see Rosati’s Pizza immediately announce its intention to take over the spot. It opened in December.


2. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino was majorly transformed in 2018 in its continuing expansion. It added a skybridge to UltraStar Multi-tainment Center, opened the restaurant Chop Block & Brew and opened a spa. It is also adding ballroom space and 200 hotel rooms.


1. Hands down, the most reader interest garnered by an economic development story was the series of business openings in Edison Pointe, developed by Vintage Partners. 2019 sees the openings of IHOP and BrakesPlus there as well.


This story appears in the January issue of InMaricopa.