THE CASA GRANDE

GENERAL PLAN

City Council Adoption 1/4/2021

Voter Ratified on 5/18/2021
Effective Date 6/8/2021
 A Growing Horizon
2030 Casa Grande General Plan

City Council Members

Craig McFarland, Mayor Matt Herman, Council Member
Lisa Navarro Fitzgibbons, Mayor Pro Tempore Donna McBride, Council Member
Dick Powell, Council Member Robert Huddleston, Council Member
Mary Kortsen, Council Member

Planning & Zoning Commission

Kenneth Miller, Commission Chair David Snider, Commissioner
Mikel McBride, Commission Vice-Chair Anthony Estrada, Commissioner
Tammy Anderson, Commissioner Fred Tucker, Commissioner
Dennis Dugan, Commissioner Brett Benedict, Commissioner

Casa Grande City Staff

Larry Rains, City Manager Laura Blakeman, Planner
Paul Tice, Planning & Development Director Abel Ndambasha, Planning Intern
Linda Harris, Administrative Assistant Arriana Jones, Planning Intern
Joseph Horn, Planner Noah Schumerth, Planning Intern
James Gagliardi, Planner Deanna Davis, City of Casa Grande Librarian
*City Staff not mentioned here are listed in the Technical Advisory Group

Historic Preservation Commission

Marge Jantz, HPC Chair Susan G. Rooney, Commissioner
James Sommers, HPC Vice-Chair Melissa Yost Fuentes, Commissioner
Richard O’Neil, HPC Vice-Chair Clara L. Trulove, Commissioner
Brett Benedict, Commissioner

Youth Commission
Grace Annala, Youth Commissioner Melanie Nagel, Youth Commissioner
Evan Chaparro, Youth Commissioner Chloe Torres, Youth Commissioner
Delaney Dickey, Youth Commissioner Jeff Molner, Staff Liaison
Adrianna Guerra, Youth Commissioner Krystal Villegas, Academic Advisor
Jasmine Moreno Youth Commissioner Matt Herman, City Council Advisor

Thank You
A special acknowledgment to all the business, residents, and citizens that participated in the development
of this plan.
 Acknowledgments

General Plan Steering Forum

Mayor McFarland, (Chair) Amanda Mace, Mission Heights Charter School
Jackie Guthrie, Land Planner (Vice-Chair) Kathryn Westmoreland, Neighborhood
Ole Solberg, Engineer Representative
Kirk McCarville, Realtor Joshua Albert, Tohono O’odham Nation
Colleen Bechtel, Realtor Rita Wilson, Tohono O’odham Nation
Larry Yount, Land Developer Brian Kramer, Social Media
Spike Lawrence, Land Developer Jeff Lavender, CGESD
Brian Daelick, Redevelopment/In-fill Developer Councilman Powell, Equestrian
Scott Robson, Homebuilder Brenda Robbins, Neighborhood Representative
Mike Henderson, Citizen-At-Large Terry Emig, Industrial Facility Owner
Ernest Feliz, Open Space/Trails/Bicycles Renee Louzon-Benn, Chamber of Commerce
Rusty Riggs, Contractor Kimberly Antone, Gila River Indian Community
John McGuire, Citizen-At-Large Erica Herman, Artist
Pablo Correa, Latino Community Mike Norris, Farming/Ranching
Fred Tucker, Planning Commission Mark Vanderhayden, Homeless Service Provider
Tim Mace, CG Union High School

Technical Advisory Group

Richard Wilkie, CG Economic Development Director David Snider, Pinal County AMA Groundwater Users
Fernando Garcia, CG Economic Development Advisory Council (GUAC)
Specialist Joe Singleton, Pinal County Water Augmentation
Latonya Jordan-Smith, CG Public Information Officer Authority
Kevin Louis, CG Public Works Director Dan Wolf, Southwest Gas
Terrance McKeon, CG Deputy Public Works Director/ Janeen Rohovit, Salt River Project (SRP)
City Engineer Michael Worley, Arizona Public Service (APS)
Duane Eitel, CG Traffic Engineer Jon Froke, State Land Board
Aaron Card, CG Information Technology Manager Rina Rien, Former Main Street Director/Realtor
Steven Weaver, CG Deputy City Manager Irene Higgs, Sun Corridor Metropolitan Planning
Steve Hardesty, CG Community Services Director Organization (MPO)
Mark McCrory, CG Police Chief Jason Hafner, Sun Corridor Metropolitan Planning
Scott Sjerven, CG Casa Grande Police Organization (MPO)
Scott Miller/David Kean, CG Fire Chief Jason Bottjen, ADOT
Terri Sue Rossi, Arizona Water Co. Brett Wallace, CG City Attorney

Consultant Team
PLAN*et Communities and subconsultants EDPCo., AECOM & Upfront Planning were honored to work with
the community of Casa Grande and its dedicated and skilled staff to develop this General Plan .

Chapter 1 | Acknowledgements i
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWARD................................................................... 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY................................................ 6
CHAPTER 1: ABOUT THIS PLAN.................................. 8
PLAN ORGANIZATION & NAVIGATION............................................10
WHY DO WE NEED AN UPDATE?.......................................................11
HOW THIS PLAN WAS DEVELOPED .................................................12
CHAPTER 2: CASA GRANDE TODAY.........................16
DEMOGRAPHICS................................................................................17
PUBLIC HEALTH..................................................................................18
ECONOMICS........................................................................................22
LAND USE............................................................................................23
RESOURCES........................................................................................24
CHAPTER 3: THEMES & ELEMENTS...........................26
GENERAL PLAN THEMES...................................................................28
LAND USE, GROWTH, & ANNEXATION.............................................29
Rural Land Use.......................................................................................................... 61

Neighborhoods Land Use....................................................................................... 68

Open Space Land Use.............................................................................................. 73

Downtown Land Use............................................................................................... 80

Community Corridor Land Use............................................................................. 88

Commerce and Business Land Use....................................................................... 93

Manufacturing and Industry Land Use............................................................... 99

Large Mixed-Use Land Use................................................................................... 103

Aggregate Resources Land Use Addendum..................................................... 107

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT............................................................111
COST OF DEVELOPMENT.................................................................121
HOUSING..........................................................................................127
PARKS, RECREATION, TRAILS, & OPEN SPACE..............................135
PUBLIC SERVICES, BUILDINGS, & FACILITIES...............................155
CIRCULATION, TRANSPORTATION, & COMMUNITY MOBILITY...179
NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION, REVITALIZATION,
CONSERVATION, REHABILITATION & REDEVELOPMENT............195

ii A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

HISTORIC PRESERVATION...............................................................209
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, NATURAL RESOURCE
CONSERVATION & SAFETY..............................................................219
WATER RESOURCES.........................................................................227
ENERGY.............................................................................................243
CHAPTER 4: GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENTS........258
AMENDMENT REQUESTS................................................................260
AMENDMENT SUBMITTAL..............................................................260
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT DETERMINATION CRITERIA........260
AMENDMENT CLASSIFICATIONS...................................................261
MINOR VS. MAJOR GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT
DETERMINATION CRITERIA............................................................261

List of Figures & Tables

CHAPTER 1: ABOUT THIS PLAN.................................. 8
Figure 1:1 Organizing Framework for General Plan Themes & Elements... 10

Figure 1:2 ARS Content Requirement by Element............................................. 11

CHAPTER 2: CASA GRANDE TODAY.........................14
Figure 2:3 Regional Context Overview................................................................ 16

Figure 2:4 2019 Pinal County Population by Jurisdiction............................... 17

Figure 2:5 2017 Casa Grande Population by Age.............................................. 17

Figure 2:6 Educational Attainment in Casa Grande........................................ 18

Figure 2:7 Community Health Outcomes & County Health Rankings ........ 19

Figure 2:8 Top 7 Causes of Death ......................................................................... 19

Figure 2:9 Leading Causes of Death by Age Group.......................................... 20

Figure 2:10 Obesity Graphics................................................................................. 20

Figure 2:11 Survey Responses................................................................................ 21

Figure 2:12 Pinal County Food Security............................................................... 21

Figure 2:13 Location Quotient by Industry ........................................................ 23

Figure 2:14 Casa Grande 2019 Land Use (Within City Limits)........................ 23
Downtown Sign Park

Chapter 1 | Table of Contents iii

 List of Figures & Tables (Cont.)

CHAPTER 3: THEMES & ELEMENTS...........................26

LAND USE, GROWTH, & ANNEXATION.............................................29
Map Figure 3:1 2030 General Plan Land Use Map..................................... 31

Figure 3:15 A Breakdown of the Land Use Categories Found in

Casa Grande’s 2020 General Plan......................................................................... 34

Figure 3:16 A Breakdown of the Land Use Categories Found in

Casa Grande’s 2030 General Plan......................................................................... 34

Figure 3:17 The Percentage Changes in Land Use within

Casa Grande’s City Limits from 2020 to 2030.................................................... 35

Figure 3:18 The Percentage Changes in Land Use within

Casa Grande’s Planning Area from 2020 to 2030............................................. 35

Figure 3:19 Casa Grande’s Estimated Population Growth from

2020-2050.................................................................................................................. 36

Figure 3:20 Projections of Non-Residential Building Floor Area

to be Built between 2020-2050............................................................................. 40

Figure 3:21 The Percentage of Acres of Vacant Land within

Casa Grande’s City Limits........................................................................................ 41
City Hall
Figure 3:22 The Percentage of Acres of Vacant Land within
Casa Grande’s Planning Area................................................................................ 42

Figure 3:23 Acreage Needed to Accommodate Growth in Relation

to Vacant Land in Casa Grande’s City Limits and Planning Area.................. 43

Figure 3:24 Percentage of Vacant Land in Casa Grande’s

Phase I Growth Area................................................................................................ 45

Figure 3:25 Acres of Land Needed to Accommodate Growth ....................... 46

Map Figure 3:2 Certificates of Assured Water Supply................................ 47

Map Figure 3:3 2030 Growth Accommodation Areas................................ 49

Map Figure 3:4 Wastewater Service Boundary............................................ 51

Map Figure 3:5 Future Annexation Areas..................................................... 59

Map Figure 3:6 Aggregate Resource Areas................................................. 109

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT............................................................111
Figure 3:26 Accessibility to Regional Destinations......................................... 111

Figure 3:27 Urbanized Areas................................................................................ 111

Figure 3:28 Total Businesses by Type.................................................................. 112

Figure 3:29 Employment by Business in Casa Grande................................... 114

iv A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Figure 3:30 Educational Attainment in Casa Grande.................................... 119

COST OF DEVELOPMENT.................................................................121
HOUSING..........................................................................................127
Figure 3:31 Breakdown of Housing Units in Casa Grande
by Structure Size...................................................................................................... 127

Figure 3:32 Age of the Housing Stock in Casa Grande.................................. 128

Figure 3:33 Residential Building Permits in Casa Grande 2010-2020....... 129

PARKS, RECREATION, TRAILS, & OPEN SPACE..............................135

Figure 3:34 Recreational Resources within Casa Grande’s Private
Developments......................................................................................................... 136

Map Figure 3:7 Casa Grande Mountain Trails........................................... 139

Map Figure 3:8 North Mountain Park Trails............................................... 141

Map Figure 3:9 Parks & Recreation Uses - North....................................... 143

Map Figure 3:10 Parks & Recreation Uses - South..................................... 145

Map Figure 3:11 Trails - Casa Grande Planning Area............................... 147

PUBLIC SERVICES, BUILDINGS, & FACILITIES...............................155

Figure 3:35 School Year Enrollment, 2019-2020 ............................................ 162

Map Figure 3:12 Public & Government Facilities....................................... 167

Map Figure 3:13 Police Department Facilities........................................... 169

Map Figure 3:14 Fire Department Facilities................................................ 171

Map Figure 3:15 Casa Grande Elementary District #4 - K-6.................... 173

Map Figure 3:16 Casa Grande Elementary District #4 - 7-8.................... 175

Map Figure 3:17 Casa Grande Union High School District..................... 177

CIRCULATION, TRANSPORTATION, &

COMMUNITY MOBILITY..................................................................179
Map Figure 3:18 Planned Roadway Network............................................ 181

Map Figure 3:19 Planned Transit Network................................................. 183

NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION, REVITALIZATION,

CONSERVATION, REHABILITATION & REDEVELOPMENT............195
Map Figure 3:20 Neighborhood Strategy Areas........................................ 197

Map Figure 3:21 Designated Opportunity Zones..................................... 199

HISTORIC PRESERVATION...............................................................209
Map Figure 3:22 Historic District & Landmark Buildings........................ 213

Chapter 1 | Table of Contents v

 List of Figures & Tables (Cont.)
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION
& SAFETY...........................................................................................219
Map Figure 3:23 Airport Noise Contours..................................................... 225

WATER RESOURCES.........................................................................227
Map Figure 3:24 Planning Area Water Providers...................................... 229

Figure 3:40 Water Use Per Capita, Pinal Valley West (Casa Grande)......... 231

Figure 3:36 Available Certificates of Assured Water Supply (CAWS)

for Vacant Lots (As of 8/1/20).............................................................................. 233

Figure 3:37 Casa Grande Population Estimate Change 2020-2050........... 233

Figure 3:38 Casa Grande Projected Development Categories

2020-2050................................................................................................................ 234

Figure 3:39 Water Usage Assessment- Benchmarking Results.................... 236

Figure 3:41 Projected Water Demand and Population Growth.................. 238

Map Figure 3:25 Certificates of Assured Water Supply............................ 241

ENERGY.............................................................................................243
Figure 3:42 U.S. Greenhouse Ggas Emissions Broken Down by
Sector for 2018........................................................................................................ 243

Figure 3:43 : Arizona Net Energy Production by Source, 2020..................... 252

Figure 3:44 Number of Residential and Non-Residential Solar Permits Issued in

Casa Grande over the Past Ten Years................................................................. 253
CHAPTER 4: GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENTS........258
Figure 4:45 Minor vs. Major General Plan Amendment Matrix................... 261

vi A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

A Message from the Mayor
The City Council and I are proud to present the new General Plan for
Casa Grande that will guide the growth of our community unnl 2030.
The “A Growing Horizon” theme of our new General Plan reflects the
vision of quality growth fueled by economic development efforts that
result in quality jobs for our ciizens.

This n
new General Plan is the result of 18 months of effort, led by Casa
Grande Planning and Development staff, that included numerous
meeengs with ciizens and stakeholders. The result is a plan that
effeccvely addresses a number of emerging community issues,
including:

Ensuring that adequate water resources are available to

support growth & development.
Desire to promote in-fill of vacant land that can be easily served
by infrastructure and city services.
Need to expand housing choices to accommodate all income
levels and demographics.
Desire to bring new accvity and development into the
downtown area.
To drive growth through the creaaon of new quality
commercial/industrial development and well-paying jobs.

I think you will find that our new 2030 General Plan does an excellent
job of addressing these issues and seeng a course for the future of
Casa Grande that we all can be proud of.

Mayor Craig McFarland

Chapter 1 | Foreword 1
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2 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

A Message from the City Manager
As City Manager
Mana I am responsible for ensuring that the City’s growth and
development occurs in a manner that improves the quality of life and
character of the community. The Mayor and City Council, Planning
Commission and City staff all rely heavily on the City’s General Plan to
ensure that each approved new development results in posiive
contribuuons to the City.

I am excited to have been part of the effort to develop a new best in

class General Plan that will guide Casa Grande’s development for the
next ten years and beyond. Some of the smart growth and development
principles that helped guide the new General Plan include:

To honor and preserve the rural and agricultural heritage of Casa

Grande while allowing urbanizaaon to occur in appropriate
locaaons.
Strengthen Casa Grande’s posiion as the industrial and
commercial center of Pina County.
Facilitate new high density residennal development in the
downtown area to bolster exissng businesses and bring new
vitality and energy to the area.
Encourage development of exissng vacant lots/infill sites which
can be served with municipal services in a cost-effeccve
manner.
To expand the housing choices available in the community.
To ensure that adequate water resources are available to
support new growth and development.

Our n
new 2030 General Plan will serve the community well in achieving
these development goals and guiding growth in a manner that
implements our shared vision for the future.

Larry Rains,
City Manager
Chapter 1 | Foreword 3
4 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan
Chapter 1 | Foreword 5
Executive Summary

The Casa Grande General Plan is required, by state law, to be updated once every ten (10) years.
The new General Plan 2030 does not deviate significantly from the direction set by the current
General Plan 2020. However, there are some refinements, namely:
• Identifying the amount of water that will be needed to support anticipated growth and
determining whether there are adequate water resources to support projected growth and
development.
• Creation of a new Downtown land use category that will allow new medium and high-density
residential development to occur as a tool to energize and promote economic activity in the
downtown area.
• Increasing the areas that are classified as Community Corridor allowing for a greater mixing
of the commercial, service, and multi-family residential developments along major street
corridors.
• Providing for additional opportunity to construct medium density residential developments
in the Neighborhoods land use category.
• Encourage the development of vacant land that already has street/utility infrastructure
and city services prior to expanding development into areas that do not have existing
infrastructure and services readily available.
In development of the new General Plan, public input was provided by both the general public
as well as by a broad-based citizen Steering Forum appointed by City Council representing the
following stakeholder groups:
» City Council » Mission Heights Charter School
» Private Sector Land Planner » Neighborhood Representative (2)
» Private Sector Engineer » Social Media
» Commercial/Industrial Realtor » CG Elementary School District
» Residential Realtor » Equestrian
» Land Developer (2) » Industrial Facility Owner
» Redevelopment/In-fill Developer » Chamber of Commerce
» Homebuilder » Gila River Indian Community
» Citizen-At-Large (2) » Tohono O’odham Nation
» Open Space/Trails/Bicycles » Ak-Chin Indian Community
» Building Contractor » Artist
» Latino Community » Farming/Ranching
» Planning Commission » Homeless Service Provider
» CG Union High School
Based upon the public input provided, the following guiding principles were created which
formed the foundation for the direction taken by the new General Plan:
1. Honor and preserve the rural and agricultural heritage of Casa Grande while allowing
urbanization to occur in appropriate locations.
2. Community growth should be driven by high-paying quality jobs associated with
industrial, corporate office, professional services, financial services, research and
development, and other similar developments.
3. Support and strengthen Casa Grande’s position as the industrial and commercial center of
Pinal County.
4. Increase the range of housing choices and products available to all members of the Casa
Grande community.
5. Support development of vacant infill lots that can be efficiently and effectively served by
municipal services.
6. Encourage high-density residential development in Casa Grande’s downtown to
strengthen existing businesses and add further vitality to the downtown area.
7. Create a sense of arrival at all major entryways and cultivate a unique sense of place
throughout the community.
8. Link all land use decisions to known available water resources to ensure long-term
viability and environmental sustainability for all new growth and development.
9. Manage growth to ensure that essential infrastructure is available concurrent with new
development.
10. Plan for growth that allows the City to provide urban services in an efficient and fiscally
responsible manner.
11. Foster a land use pattern that is multi-modal in nature and which contributes to an active
transportation system such as walking, bicycling, vehicles, mass transit and autonomous
vehicles.
These guiding principles reflect the best in class smart growth planning practices. Following
these principles will allow Casa Grande to continue to grow and develop into the foreseeable
future in a manner that preserves the desired character of the community and quality of life for
our residents.
CHAPTER 1
About This Plan
CHAPTER 1
ABOUT THIS PLAN
Plan Organization & Navigation
How this Plan is Organized
About This Plan
This introductory section takes you through the plan
organization, how to navigate this document, the need and
process in forming the General Plan update, and the plan’s vision
and executive summary.
Casa Grande Today
Look at what makes our community today and explore
population demographics, economic conditions, and the current
context to see existing challenges and opportunity as we move
forward in planning Casa Grande in the next 10-15 years.
General Plan Themes & Elements
State statute requires several elements informing the general
plan that have been framed under three guiding general
plan themes: Growing Economy, Enhancing Quality of Life, &
Environmental Sustainability.
Administration & Implementation
This section looks at how the plan will be administered and
amendment procedures for Major and Minor amendments.

Figure 1:1 Organizing Framework for General Plan Themes & Elements

10 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Why Do We Need an Update?
Every 10 years cities and towns are required by state law to help guide growth and coordinate
development to protect and preserve resources. The General Plan serves as the community vision
with associated goals and strategies that inform updates of policies and plans.

Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS)

By law, city and town planning agencies shall prepare a General Plan for each municipality in
Arizona. Several element categories are required depending on population growth rate and size.
Figure 1:2 sets forth the ARS content requirements for General Plans as well as indicates where each
component can be found within the General Plan.

Information and Elements Where information is located within the General Plan
Required by ARS 9-461.05
Land Use Element Included in “Land Use, Growth and Annexation Element”.
Air quality and solar energy requirements also addressed in “Energy” and “Environmental
Planning, Natural Resource Conservation and Safety” Elements.
Growth Element Included in “Land Use, Growth and Annexation Element”.
Open Space Element Included as a land use category within the “Land Use, Growth and Annexation Element” as well
as within the “Parks, Recreation, Trails and Open Space” Elements.
Circulation Element Included in the “Circulation, Transportation and Community Mobility Element”.
Environmental Planning Element Included in the “Environmental Planning, Natural Resource Conservation and Safety Element”.
Conservation/Natural Resources Element Included in the “Environmental Planning, Natural Resource Conservation and Safety Element”.
Safety Element Included in the “Environmental Planning, Natural Resource Conservation and Safety Element”.
Cost of Development Element Included in the “Cost of Development Element”.
Recreation Element Included in the “Parks, Recreation, Trails and Open Space Element”.
Bicycling Element Included in both the “Circulation, Transportation and Community Mobility” and the Parks,
Recreation, Trails and Open Space” Elements.
Energy Element Included in an “Energy Element”
Neighborhood Preservation and Included in the “Neighborhood Preservation, Revitalization, Conservation, Rehabilitation and
Revitalization Element Redevelopment Element”
Conservation, Rehabilitation and Included in the “Neighborhood Preservation, Revitalization, Conservation, Rehabilitation and
Redevelopment Element Redevelopment Element”
Public Services and Facilities Element Included in the “Public Services, Buildings and Facilities Element”.
Public Building Element Included in the “Public Services, Buildings and Facilities Element”.
Safety Element Included in the “Public Services, Buildings and Facilities Element”.
Water Resources Element Included in the “Water Resources Element”.
Housing Element Included in the “Housing Element”
Figure 1:2 ARS Content Requirement by Element

Chapter 1 | About This Plan 11

 How this Plan was Developed

Public Outreach Process

This plan was informed through continuous
public outreach and communication via:
• Online communication via General Plan
2030 page & City website
• Social Media posts (Facebook, Twitter,
Nextdoor)
• Monthly presentation updates to the
Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) &
Steering Forum (SF) (Sept. 2019-Nov. 2020)
• 02/08/2020 Youth Council Event
Public Participation • 01/25/2020 Community Kick-Off Meeting
• 02/06/2020 Planning Commission Meeting
• 03/02/2020 Casa Grande City Council
Meeting

Forming the General Plan

This plan used several past and existing plans related to the different elements to inform the update.
In conjunction with monthly public update meetings to the committee and steering forums,
focus groups, and comments received online, a series of questions were provided and used with
developed land use scenarios that were presented at the community kick-off. The input received
by staff and community members was used in the modeling and presented in the draft plan. These
were presented and reviewed for further comment and used to form the goals, strategies, and
implementation of the plan.
Plans Used in this Update:
• Casa Grande General Plan 2020 • Casa Grande Mountain Park Trail System
• Sun Corridor MPO Regional Transportation Master Plan
Plan 2040: Creating Connectivity • Infrastructure Improvement Plan (IIP) &
• 2007 Small Area Transportation Study Development Fee Report
• 2016 Water Quality Management Plan • Casa Grande Municipal Airport Master Plan
• 2018 Land Use Assumptions Report • 2008 Reclaimed Water Use Master Plan
• Casa Grande Regional Trail System Master Plan • 2014 Wastewater Master Plan Update

12 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

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Chapter 1 | About This Plan 13

CHAPTER 2
Casa Grande Today
 CHAPTER 2
CASA GRANDE TODAY
Overview
REGIONAL CONTEXT OVERVIEW

Figure 2:3 Regional Context Overview

Casa Grande is located in Pinal County, between the cities of Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona. Interstate
10 (I-10), passes through Casa Grande’s east side and is the interstate connecting Los Angeles,
Calif. to Jacksonville, Fla. through Houston, Texas, Baton Rouge, La. and Biloxi, Miss. Interstate 8 is
located within the southern portion of the City’s planning area, originates at the I-10 in Casa Grande,
and connects Casa Grande to the San Diego area. The active Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) tracks
connecting Los Angeles, Calif. to El Paso, Texas are located in the southwest portion of the City.
The City limits include approximately 112 square miles of land. The City Planning Area, which includes
land outside the City limits and planned to be annexed in the future, includes nearly 269 square miles
of land north and south of the I-8 between the Tohono O’Odham and Gila River Indian Communities
and to the west by the Ak Chin Indian Community.

16 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 2019 PINAL COUNTY
POPULATION BY
JURISDICTION As of 2020 the City is the 16th
largest jurisdiction in Arizona
and the largest jurisdiction in
Pinal County, accounting for
almost13% of the County’s
2018 population. Almost 1/2
of County residents live in
unincorporated Pinal County.

Figure 2:4 2019 Pinal County Population by Jurisdiction

Source: Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity, 7/1/19 Population Estimates

Demographics
Families predominate in Casa Grande. Of the City’s estimated
17,651 2017 households, 71% are family households. Households
with three or more people comprise 40 % of the City’s households
and single - person households make up 22 % of City households.
The City’s average household size is 2.9 people, and the average
size of a Casa Grande family is 3.18 people.

Casa Grande residents are

CASA GRANDE POPULATION BY AGE
slightly younger than Pinal
County residents. In 2017, 28%
of the City’s population was
less than 18 years old, and 18%
of the population was over age
65.

For every Casa Grande resident

over the age of 65 there are
three residents between the
ages of 25 and 65.
Figure 2:5 2017 Casa Grande Population by Age
Source: 2017 American Community Survey, 5-Year Estimates

Chapter 2 | Casa Grande Today 17

 EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT IN CASA GRANDE Over half of all residents over
25 years old have at least some
college, and one quarter have
an Associate, Bachelor, or
graduate degree.

Figure 2:6 Educational Attainment in Casa Grande

Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survery (ACS), 2018 5-year estimates

Public Health
Introduction
Land use and transportation
planning are essential to
building a healthy community.
Planning decisions intersect
with many public health crises,
including obesity, diabetes,
physical activity, and fatal
accidents. It is important
for any long-range plan to
consider the public health
effects of planning decisions.
As the county’s largest city
and home to many of the
county’s medical and health
services, Casa Grande has a
particular responsibility to
plan to mitigate chronic health
conditions that are affected by
the built environment, provide
access to medical facilities
and emergency services, and
encourage physical activity
and safe active transportation.

18 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 As stated in the 2018 Community Health Needs Assessment,
Pinal County has particular challenges to planning for healthy
communities, given the county’s particularly diverse population by
age, ethnicity and balance of urban and rural residency

As of 2019, Pinal County is 7th out of all Arizona counties for public
health outcomes. This ranking is determined by an assessment of
the built environment, social and economic factors, medical access
and health behaviors.

Figure 2:7 Community Health Outcomes & County Health Rankings (Figure credits: Robert J. Woods Foundation, Pinal County Community Health Needs Assessment 2020)

Figure 2:8 Top 7 Causes of Death (Figure credits: Pinal County Public Health Dashboard, Arizona Department of Health Services Mortality Report Table 5E-5, 2016)

Pinal County has lower rates of the six leading causes of death than the State of Arizona. However,
mortality rates for diabetes continue to increase in Pinal County and exceed state averages.

Chapter 2 | Casa Grande Today 19

Figure 2:9 Leading Causes of Death by Age Group (Figure credits: Pinal County Community Health Needs Assessment 2018, Pinal County Strategic Transportation Safety
Plan 2019)
Accidents remain the leading cause of death for those under 45 years of age. Of those fatal accidents,
an average of nearly 50% involve an automobile each year. Between 2008 and 2017, 530 fatal accidents
occurred in Pinal County, 11% of which occurred in Casa Grande. The county is seeing increasing rates
of fatal vehicle accidents as the county urbanizes.

Figure 2:10 Obesity Graphics (Figure credits: Pinal County Community Health Needs Assessment 2020, Robert J Woods Foundation County Health Rankings 2019)

20 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 • 73% of people have “reasonable access” to exercise opportunities, compared to 85% at the national
level. (Source: Robert J Woods Foundation County Health Rankings 2019)
Obesity and diabetes are becoming major public health issues in Pinal County. Approximately 50% of
county residents were reported as overweight or obese in 2017, with 33% of county residents were
reported as obese. Over 12% of county residents reported as having diabetes. Rates for these chronic
conditions are increasing across the county. Problems such as high physical inactivity rates, low
levels of access to exercise opportunities, and long commute times are cited as contributors to these
conditions in Pinal County.

Figure 2:11 Survey Responses (Figure credits: Pinal County Community Health Needs Assessment 2020)

Opportunities exist to use the built environment to dramatically improve public health outcomes,
particularly for alleviating chronic health conditions such as obesity and diabetes. Almost half of all
respondents reported that the construction of walking trails and sidewalks would benefit their exercise
and physical activity habits.

Figure 2:12 Pinal County Food Security (Figure Credits: Feeding America: Food Security in Pinal County 2018)
Food security concerns remain in Casa Grande. Approximately 12.7% of residents in Pinal County were
reported as food insecure as of 2018. Over 68% of the population in the county is eligible for food
benefits programs such as SNAP. Identified barriers to proper food access include long distances to
grocery options, lack of food support services and chronic poverty conditions.

Chapter 2 | Casa Grande Today 21

 Economics
More than half (56%) of the City’s population over 16 years old is working. Over the
next 20 years, the number of jobs in Casa Grande is expected to almost double.
Casa Grande residents’ 2017 median income is $46,357 as compared to Pinal County
as a whole ($52,628) and the City of Maricopa ($68,908). In 2017, 15% of all Casa
Grande households earned more than $100,000 per year. In that same year, 25% of all
Casa Grande households earned less than $25,000 per year – slightly more than the
2017 $24,600 federal poverty level for a family of four. Offering quality jobs within
the city can result in higher incomes for Casa Grande residents.
One-quarter (25%) of Casa Grande residents have occupations in management,
business, science, and arts, 25% are service workers, and 25% have sales and office
occupations. The balance of city residents have production, transportation and
material moving (17%) or natural resources, construction, and maintenance (8%)
occupations. Almost 25% of all residents work in the educational services, healthcare,
and social assistance industry. 14% of all residents work in retail trade, and 12%
work in arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, and food services. 8% of all
residents work in professional, scientific and management, administrative, and waste
management services.
Considering the key industries located in Pinal County, the City is an industry
leader. Forty-three (43%) of Pinal County jobs in finance, health care, information
technology, manufacturing, and warehousing & distribution are located in Casa
Grande.

Casa Grande as a Destination Economy

Casa Grande is where people throughout the region come to shop and dine. Retail
sales taxes constitute a significant share of the total City revenues and are used to
pay for a large share of City services including parks, trails, recreation programs, fire,
police and roads. Encouraging development and other activities that continue to
support the City’s role as a regional retail and entertainment leader is important to
the continued economic health of the community.
City per capita restaurant and bar sales are the highest in the County. To stay
a regional leader, Casa Grande will have to remain an attractive county-wide
destination. Since 2014, the City of Maricopa’s sales have increased at an average of
15% per year as compared to Casa Grande’s 4%, and Maricopa’s share of the Pinal
County bar and retail receipts has increased to 26% from 2014 to 2018 while Casa
Grande’s share has declined from 57 to 51% over the same time period.

22 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 LOCATION QUOTIENT BY INDUSTRY The Location Quotient
indicates the strength of Casa
Grande’s economy relative
to Pinal County. A Location
Quotient greater than one (1)
shows Casa Grande has an
above average employment
level relative to the County. A
Location Quotient of two (2)
or more shows very strong
industry sectors. Casa Grande
has a Location Quotient of 2.28
for high tech manufacturing
and development. The City
has a Location Quotient of
2.02 for consumer goods
manufacturing. The city
is also a county leader
in telecommunications,
healthcare, retail, and consumer
services.
Figure 2:13 Location Quotient by Industry
Source: Maricopa Association of Governments 2019

Land Use
Casa Grande has ample land within its city CASA GRANDE 2019 LAND USE
limits to accommodate projected population (WITHIN CITY LIMITS)
growth. Eighty one percent (81%) of the
more than 71,000 acres of land within the
City’s incorporated limits is undeveloped or in
agricultural use. Residential development and
government uses comprise the next two largest
categories of land use. Commercial land uses,
which includes health care facilities, retail and
office development total 4% percent of the
City’s current land use, followed by industrial
(2%) and various land uses (1%) (utility corridors,
unclassified land, and special taxing districts).
The City’s Planning Area is more than 175,000
acres and includes land outside the current city
limits which is designated for future annexation
into Casa Grande.
Figure 2:14 Casa Grande 2019 Land Use (Within City Limits)
The majority of the residential land in the
Source: Pinal County Assessor
City consists of master planned communities
constructed after 1980 that include single
family subdivisions, parks, trails and community
amenities.

Chapter 2 | Casa Grande Today 23

 South of Cottonwood Lane and west of Colorado Street includes
most of the City’s pre-1980 single family development and historic
districts.
The City’s historic downtown includes buildings dating to the
19th Century and reflects the City’s rich agricultural, mining
and rail history. The historic district is predominantly developed
with commercial uses that are located in historic buildings. An
older residential community borders the historic district on the
southwest, on the southside of the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR)
tracks. The City Hall is located in the historic Casa Grande High
School, constructed in 1921 and located on Florence Boulevard
adjacent to the northern edge of the historic downtown.
A large portion of the City’s commercial development is along
Florence Boulevard. The 926,000 square foot Promenade Mall is a
regional commercial destination located at Florence Boulevard and
I-10. Florence Boulevard is the main east-west corridor between
I-10 and S.R. 347 to Maricopa and Pinal Ave. Other commercial
development is also located along Pinal Avenue (S.R. 387) - the
City’s main north south corridor connecting I-10 to Florence
Boulevard and terminating in the City’s historic downtown.
The area north of Kortsen Road is still mostly zoned for residential
and commercial development and still undeveloped. Large
undeveloped Master Planned communities are also planned for the
area west of the Casa Grande/Maricopa Highway between Casa
Grande Highway (Florence Boulevard/SR 84) and Val Vista Road.
Most of the City’s employment is located on the City’s west side,
along the Union Pacific Railroad and the Casa Grande/Maricopa
Highway. New industrial development, which includes Lucid
Motors, is moving south towards the I-8.

Resources
Water
Before recording a subdivision plat with six or more lots,
developers must demonstrate that each lot has a 100-year assured
water supply and possesses a Certificate of Assured Water Supply
provided by the AZ. Department of Water Resources (ADWR).
The Casa Grande Planning Area includes eight water providers, all
of which are privately operated, other than the City-owned Copper
Mountain Ranch water system.
The largest water provider inside the City’s planning area is Arizona
Water Company which serves the majority of the developed
portion of the planning area. Arizona Water Company has nearly
20,000 customers inside Casa Grande’s planning area and annually
provides around 15,600 acre-feet of water to these customers.
Approximately 63% of Arizona Water Company’s connections are
residential customers and 37% are non-residential.

24 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Parks, Trails, & Open Space
The City of Casa Grande is home to 19 parks, 17 miles of trails,
sports fields and open spaces. The City additionally operates
and maintains recreation facilities for residents of all ages. These
include:
• The Dorothy Powell Senior Center: Open to people ages
50 and older. Daily hot lunches along with recreational and
social programs are offered at this facility.
• Grande Sports World: Eight professional grade soccer fields,
59,000 s.f. training center and home to the Grande Sports
Soccer academy.
• Len Colla Recreation Center: A multi-purpose recreation
center that features a full size gymnasium, multi-purpose/game
room, computer lab/meeting room and an arts and crafts room.
The Center is also the site of the City’s After School Kids Club
which is a supervised program for school age youth 5-17.
• Palm Island Family Aquatic Park: Open to the public from
Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
• Paul Mason Sports Complex: Four adult softball fields with
movable fencing to accommodate regulation Little League,
Pony League, Babe Ruth and girls fast-pitch softball.
• Ed Hooper Rodeo Park: This facility, leased and operated
by the West Pinal Mounted Sheriff’s Posse, hosts a number of
rodeo events.
• Community Recreation Center: This newly constructed
facility contains a gymnasium, fitness loft, walking/jogging
track, fitness classes and community meeting space.
• Dave White Golf Course: An 18 hole facility with practice
greens, driving range and clubhouse.

--------------
Sources:
2018 Pinal County Community Needs Assessment: https://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/publichealth/documents/
pcphsd-2018-chna-final-report.pdf
2020 Pinal County Community Health Needs Assessment: https://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/publichealth/
Documents/Pinal%20_County_CHNA_100620.pdf
Arizona Department of Health Services Mortality Report Table 5E-5, 2016: https://pub.azdhs.gov/health-stats/
report/ahs/ahs2016/pdf/5e5.pdf
Feeding America: Food Insecurity in Pinal County (2018): https://map.feedingamerica.org/county/2018/overall/
arizona/county/pinal
Pinal County Public Health Dashboard: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.
html?appid=c061fd05a8e44fcbb31977b7021c4bd1’
Pinal County Strategic Transportation Safety Plan, November 2019: https://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/
PublicWorks/TransportationPlanning/Documents/Pinal_Co_STSPFinalNov_4_2019withAppendices.pdf
Robert J Woods Foundation County Health Rankings 2019: https://www.countyhealthrankings.org/
reports/2019-county-health-rankings-key-findings-report

Chapter 2 | Casa Grande Today 25

CHAPTER 3
Themes & Elements
CHAPTER 3
GENERAL PLAN THEMES &
ELEMENTS
General Plan Themes
This plan is focused into three key theme areas that encompass the core values of the City and includes
all state required general plan elements: Growing Economy, Enhancing Quality of Life, &
Environmental Sustainability. These themes will guide the plan.

Growing Economy
A thriving economy is comprised of smart placement of different land uses,
coordinated areas of growth strategies, and anticipating future costs of
development.
Elements:
• Land Use
• Economic Development
• Cost of Development

Enhancing Quality of Life

A primary focus of this General Plan is to ensure that our residents have access to
public facilities, parks and open space, and affordable housing to help enhance the
health of our residents’ neighborhoods and improve the quality of life.
Elements:
• Housing
• Parks, Recreation, Trails, & Open Space
• Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities
• Circulation, Transportation, & Community Mobility
• Neighborhood Preservation, Revitalization, Conservation, Rehabilitation, &
Redevelopment
• Historic Preservation

Environmental Sustainability
This Plan focuses on ensuring that we have adequate water resources to sustain
future growth along with and emphasis on taking environmental constraints and
energy conservation into account in making decisions on future developments.
Elements:
• Environmental Planning, Natural Resource Conservation, & Safety
• Water Resources
• Energy

28 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
Land Use, Growth, & Annexation

OVERVIEW
The Land Use, Growth & Annexation Element is the core of the 2030
General Plan – it provides the primary tool by which the visions, goals,
and action steps detailed in this plan will be implemented over the
lifespan of the plan. This element sets forth the land use categories
that will be used to guide future decisions on zoning, site plan reviews,
land subdivisions, and a host of other local land use controls. The land
use element also provides a community-guided vision for how the
community should look, grow, and function over the next decade and
beyond.
One of the first steps in the development of this plan was the creation of a set of guiding principles
that would help determine the amount and location of the various land use areas.

Guiding Principles for the Land Use Plan

1. Honor and preserve the rural and agricultural heritage of Casa Grande while allowing urbanization
to occur in appropriate locations.
2. Community growth should be driven by industrial, corporate office, professional services, financial
services, research and development, and other similar developments which offer the opportunity
for high-paying quality jobs.
3. Support and strengthen Casa Grande’s position as the industrial and commercial center of Pinal
County.
4. Increase the range of housing choices and products available to all members of the Casa Grande
community.
5. Support development of vacant infill lots that can be efficiently and effectively served by municipal
services.
6. Encourage high-density residential development in Casa Grande’s downtown to strengthen
existing businesses and add further vitality to the downtown area.
7. Create a sense of arrival at all major entryways and cultivate a unique sense of place throughout
the community.
8. Link all land use decisions to known available water resources to ensure long-term viability and
environmental sustainability for all new growth and development.
9. Manage growth to ensure that essential infrastructure is available concurrent with new
development.
10. Plan for growth that allows the City to provide urban services in an efficient and fiscally responsible
manner.
11. Foster a land use pattern that can be served by a variety of transportation modes that contribute
to an active transportation system such as walking, bicycling, automobiles, mass transit and
autonomous vehicles to provide residents an opportunity to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation
| Element 29
 About the Land Use, Growth & Annexation
Element
This element, the Land Use Map in particular, are tools that are
used to enforce the specifics of the General Plan. Many planning
applications, including major site plans and rezoning requests,
require compliance with the Land Use Map and the Goals put forth
in the various elements of the General Plan. The Land Use Map
and its associated recommendations also guide city investment
strategies and plans produced by the city, including the city’s
Capital Improvement Plan, and “area-specific plans” for various
districts of the city.
Additionally, the Land Use, Growth & Annexation Element
provides guidance for how all of the policies, action steps, and
recommendations in this plan will combine into a cohesive vision
for the future of the community. The Land Use map represents a
future for land use patterns in Casa Grande. The detailed land use
category descriptions in this element are intended to provide an
easy-to-understand visual guide for interpreting the Land Use Map
for residents, developers, and planning staff alike.
The Land Use, Growth & Annexation Element sets a pattern for
growth designed to balance projected growth with limitations
from water resources, wastewater infrastructure, transportation
and environmental conditions. This element is designed to
articulate a vision for specific districts of the city, such as the
downtown and arterial corridors, where the public has expressed
interest in new investment and growth. The vision in this element
is not designed to be binding, but rather to guide and shape
future development with enough flexibility to accommodate and
anticipate future challenges. However, this element can be trusted
by residents, developers, and practitioners as an effective manual
for future growth in Casa Grande.

30 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.1:
3:1 2030 2030
GENERAL PLANGeneral Plan Land Use Map
LAND USE MAP

Land Use Categories

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd
Pinal Ave
Murphy Rd

Anderson Rd

Russell Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd

Estrella Rd
Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd

Signal Peak Rd
Commerce/Business
Millrise Rd Millrise Rd
Gila River Community Corridor
Trading Post Rd
Indian Community Waverly Dr
Downtown
Ak-Chin
Val Vista Blvd Indian Val Vista Blvd Large Mixed-Use

Community
Manufacturing/Industry
Woodruff Rd o Woodruff Rd
Neighborhoods

McCartney Rd McCartney Rd Open Space

Rural
Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd

Boundaries
Kortsen Rd Kortsen Rd Planning Area Boundary

Tribal Communities
Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln

Other Features
Gila Bend Hwy Florence Blvd
Interstate

Major Road
Peters Rd Earley Rd

²
Minor Road

Selma Hwy Selma Hwy

Cornman Rd Cornman Rd

0 0.5 1 2 3
Hanna Rd Miles
Hanna Rd
Version Date: 01/05/2020

Arica Rd Arica Rd Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,

GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
IGN, and the GIS User Community

Shedd Rd Shedd Rd

Houser Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Houser Rd

Sunland Gin Rd
Tohono O'odham
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy

Henness Rd
Midway Rd
Murphy Rd

Estrella Rd
Russell Rd

Trekell Rd

Nation

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

Chapter 3 | Element Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 31

 <This Page Intentionally Left Blank >

32 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

What’s Different from the General Plan 2020?
Several significant changes have been made between the
General Plan 2020 and the new 2030 General Plan. These changes
reflect the dramatically different economic and environmental
circumstances that Casa Grande faces in 2020 that were not
present in 2010 when the previous plan was authored. This plan
has been carefully written to respond to these new challenges
and circumstances in a thoughtful manner. Some of the primary
changes to this land use plan include:
• Establishing a downtown land use category that encourages a
mix of higher residential, commercial, and retail uses.
• Expanding areas dedicated to industrial and manufacturing
to accommodate projections of rapid growth, particularly
between Gila Bend Highway and I-8.
• Concentrating new neighborhood growth in areas where
assured water supplies exist, and construction of new
infrastructure is fiscally feasible.
• The Rural land use category has been expanded to include
both agricultural and natural areas located within the
unincorporated area of Pinal County outside of the city that
will have minimal urban development over the life of this
plan. This category is designed not to be a “placeholder” for
future development, but to carefully control urban growth
and protect Casa Grande’s agricultural, natural, and aggregate
resources.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 33

 2020 GENERAL PLAN LAND USE CATEGORIES

Figure 3:15 A Breakdown of the Land Use Categories Found in Casa Grande’s 2020 General Plan.
Source: City of Casa Grande

2030 GENERAL PLAN LAND USE CATEGORIES

Figure 3:16 A Breakdown of the Land Use Categories Found in Casa Grande’s 2030 General Plan.
Source: City of Casa Grande

34 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 % Area
City Limits Land Use 2020 2030 Change
2020-2030
Acres % of Total Acres % of Total
Rural and Agricultural 2,948 4.2 4,919 6.9 66.9
Neighborhoods 48,633 68.5 43,489 60.6 -10.6
Commerce and
8,676 12.2 8,746 12.2 0.8
Business
Manufacturing and
5,723 8.1 6,042 8.4 5.6
Industry
Large Mixed-Use 0 0.0 1,816 2.5 N/A
Community Corridor
3,411 4.8 4,396 6.1 28.9
(Center)
Downtown 0 0.0 662 0.9 N/A
Open Space 1,567 2.2 1,693 2.4 8.1
Figure 3:17 The Percentage Changes in Land Use within Casa Grande’s City Limits from 2020 to 2030.
Source: City of Casa Grande

% Area
Planning Area Land 2020 2030 Change
Use 2020-2030
Acres % of Total Acres % of Total
Rural and Agricultural 70,339 40.1 78,559 45.5 11.7
Neighborhoods 71,151 40.5 51,395 29.8 -27.8
Commerce and
15,332 8.7 13,696 7.9 -10.7
Business
Manufacturing and
10,461 6.0 16,137 9.4 54.3
Industry
Large Mixed-Use 2,573 1.5 4,406 2.6 71.2
Community Corridor
3,764 2.1 4,679 2.7 24.3
(Center)
Downtown 0 0.0 744 0.4 N/A
Open Space 1,888 1.1 2,892 1.7 53.2
Figure 3:18 The Percentage Changes in Land Use within Casa Grande’s Planning Area from 2020 to 2030.
Source: City of Casa Grande

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 35

 Review of this data indicates that there are significant differences
as to how land within the City is classified in the 2030 General Plan
versus the 2020 General Plan, including:
• The land included into the Rural/Agricultural category
increased from roughly 4% to 7%.
• Although the Neighborhoods category is by far the largest
of the land use categories, the land included in that category
reduced from 69% to 60%.
• The Commerce & Business category remained at approximately
12%.
• The land within the City limits classified as Manufacturing &
Industry generally remained the same.
• Both the Large Mixed-Use and Community Corridor land use
categories were expanded to contain more land to facilitate
the types of mixed-use, infill and urban developments that are
encouraged in these areas.
• The Downtown Core is a new land use category which
represents approximately 0.5% of the total City land use.
• The land included in the Open Space category increased
slightly to reflect recent open space purchases by the City as
well as trail corridors and parks that were not included in the
2020 General Plan.

Casa Grande Urbanizing

Throughout most of its history, Casa Grande has been a thriving
agricultural community by exporting cotton, dairy products and
a range of other agricultural products. As the Phoenix and Tucson
metro areas continue to grow rapidly, the urbanization is having an
impact upon the growth of Casa Grande. Casa Grande is projected
to double in population by 2050 according to the Arizona Office of
Economic Opportunity (OEO).
Casa Grande
Year Population
Estimate
2020 57,518
2030 75,049 The focus of the 2030 General Plan is to direct this population
2040 92,880 growth into the areas of the City where urban services and
infrastructure can be effectively and efficiently provided. This
2050 118,395 effort should result in a more compact land use pattern that
Figure 3:19 Casa Grande’s Estimated Population supports a fiscally sound and sustainable community. Accordingly,
Growth from 2020-2050. the City must take a proactive position to manage growth in a
Source: OEO Forecast 2019 manner that will both embrace an increasingly urban future for
Casa Grande while preserving its vibrant rural economy and natural
beauty.

36 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

To do this, Casa Grande will promote infill development and
urbanization in an effort to slow the outward leapfrog growth and
sprawl in the city. An important step in achieving this balance will
be creating a new downtown district to plan for a strong urban
core in Casa Grande that will allow for higher density residential
development appropriate for the city’s future as a mid-sized city
with close ties to two major metropolitan areas. These decisions
will build upon the success that many Arizona communities
have had in redeveloping their downtowns as a catalyst for more
sustainable growth.
Casa Grande has also taken steps to update the Community
Corridor land use category in an effort to promote increased
economic activity and growth along major corridors without
sacrificing the attributes of Casa Grande that many residents
enjoy, including open spaces and a quieter village feel. Finally,
the city has created a sound phased growth program that
decreases the amount of area devoted to traditional suburban
developments, reflecting limited capabilities to grow outward due
to environmental constraints such as a lack of guaranteed water
supplies for new developments.
Casa Grande will establish its priorities for investments in city
infrastructure and public services using this Land Use Element.
The land use decisions based upon this element will impact
investments in trails, both urban and rural, and other park spaces
that will both ease safe movement through Casa Grande while
connecting residents with rural spaces. This plan will also change
the role that renewable infrastructure plays in Casa Grande’s
development, preserving spaces for greater investments in
electrical power that draws from Arizona’s natural solar and wind
advantages while also increasing investments in “consumer-side”
energy connections, such as electric vehicle charging stations.
Finally, this land use chapter will significantly affect street planning
decisions to create more urban streets that are safer to walk, bike,
and drive on. The urban streets will also contribute to healthy
lifestyles for both pedestrians and bicyclists by providing them the
opportunity to be active.

Growing as an Independent Regional Center

Casa Grande is in an extremely unique position as a city that offers
opportunities to commute to two major metropolitan areas. Many
workers choose to commute to Phoenix or Tucson to reach the
large job centers found in these cities while living in the quieter,
spacious environment found in Pinal County. However, Casa
Grande has much to offer its own residents, including a growing
industrial job sector, a robust local economy that offers greater
than one job for every two people in Casa Grande, high quality
public infrastructure and schools, and unmatched opportunities to
interact with the Sonoran Desert.
Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 37
 Casa Grande will use the 2030 General Plan, and the Land Use Map
in particular, to continue to develop Casa Grande as a regional
center of Pinal County that can thrive independently from Phoenix
and Tucson while offering proximity to these adjacent urban
centers. The city has set aside locations for open space and natural
areas, to allow the city to expand opportunities for the rural
recreation and vistas that make the city unique. By expanding
industrial opportunities, such as the Lucid Car Factory and several
other growing facilities, the city will expand its base of high-paying
jobs that can support Casa Grande as a thriving independent
economy. Casa Grande will also make key infrastructure
investments that will balance Casa Grande’s role as a regional
destination and as a community with a downtown that serves its
residents.

Linking Land Use to Water Availability

The Land Use, Growth & Annexation Element, along with the
entire 2030 General Plan, is designed to link Casa Grande’s growth
with available water resources. Currently, the water that supplies
city developments comes primarily from groundwater sources
controlled by private water providers, with small amounts coming
from other water resources such as Central Arizona Project
(Colorado River) or treated wastewater (effluent).
The water resource available to support development will shape
the future land use pattern. Most notably, the 2030 General Plan
features significant reduction in the amount of space dedicated
for future Neighborhoods, designating much of that space for
Rural land uses. Additionally, this plan calls for the concentration
of growth around subdivision areas that have already documented
assured water supplies. This approach will result in a sustainable
pattern of growth that realistically reflects the available water
resources in Casa Grande.

Accommodating Growth
In association with the preparation of this General Plan Elliott
D. Pollack & Co. conducted a land use demand analysis for Casa
Grande. This analysis was based upon the population projections
provided by the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO).
The OEO projections reflect a population increase of approximately
60,900 persons over the next 30 years creating a population of
118,400 residents in 2050.
According to Pollack & Co., at an average household size of
2.9 persons, over 22,000 new housing units will need to be
constructed over the next 30 years to accommodate this growing
population.

38 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Accordingly, it is projected that the following number of new
dwelling units will be required in each of the next three decades to
meet the housing demands:
• 2020-2030: 6,407 dwelling units
• 2030-2040: 6,519 dwelling units
• 2040-2050: 9,350 dwelling units
These residential dwelling unit needs will be accommodated
through a variety of different housing types, including:
• Traditional Single-family Detached/Attached
• Multi-family Apartments/Condominiums/Townhomes
• Manufactured Homes
• Park Models
For each decade of growth, an analysis has been undertaken to
determine the number of acres of land that will be needed to
accommodate the number and type of dwelling units needed for
the 2020-2050 timeframe. For the purposes of this analysis, the
following development factors were applied:
Density (dwelling units/acre)
• Single-family Detached/Attached: 4 du/acre
• Manufactured/Park Model Homes: 8 du/acre
• Multi-family/Condominiums/Townhome: 16 du/acre
Dwelling Unit Types
• Single-family Detached/Attached: 70%
• Manufactured/Park Model Homes: 15%
• Multifamily/Condominiums/Townhomes: 15%
Persons Per Household
• Single-family Detached/Attached: 3.13
• Manufactured/Park Model Homes: 2.01
• Multi-family/Condominiums/Townhomes: 2.23
Based upon these development factors, the following minimum
acreage will need to be provided to accommodate the city’s
residential growth over the 2020-2050 timeframe:
2020-2030 Acres Needed for Residential Development
• Single-family Detached/Attached: 1,212 acres
• Manufactured/Park Model Homes: 120 acres
• Multi-family/Condominiums/Townhomes: 60 acres
• Total Residential Acreage Needed to Meet Demand: 1392
2030-2040 Acres Needed for Residential Development
• Single-family Detached/Attached: 1,141 acres
• Manufactured/Park Model Homes: 245 acres
• Multi-family/Condominiums/Townhomes: 122 acres
• Total Residential Acreage Needed to Meet Demand: 1,508

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 39

 2040-2050 Acres Needed for Residential Development
• Single-family Detached/Attached: 1,636 acres
• Manufactured/Park Model Homes: 175 acres
• Multi-family/Condominiums/Townhomes: 88 acres
• Total Residential Acreage Needed to Meet Demand: 1,899

A similar analysis was performed to project the amount of land

that needs to be provided to accommodate Commercial/Office/
Institutional uses as well as Industrial/Manufacturing uses over
the 2020-2050 timeframe. For the purposes of this analysis, the
amount of building square footage needed to meet demand
was determined based upon non-residential building permit
data over the 2010-2020 timeframe with an annual increase in
building areas from the historical rate assumed for the 2020-2050
timeframe. Additionally, a FAR of .25 was assumed for these types
of developments. This analysis produced the following projections
of non-residential building floor area that is anticipated to be
constructed over the 2020-2050 timeframe as well as the amount
of land need to accommodate this amount of development:

Commercial/Office/ Manufacturing/
Institutional Industrial
Years
Building Floor Building Floor
Acreage Acreage
Area Area

2020-2030 850,000 sq. ft. 78 7,400,000 sq. ft. 680

2030-2040 930,726 sq. ft. 86 8,102,000 sq. ft. 744

2040-2050 1,134,533 sq. ft. 104 9,873,845 sq. ft. 907

Minimum
Total
268 2331
Acreage
Needed
Figure 3:20 Projections of Non-Residential Building Floor Area to be Built between 2020-2050.
Source: City of Casa Grande

40 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

It is important to understand whether the various land use
categories set forth in the General Plan provide an adequate
amount of land to accommodate the amount of growth and
development projected to occur in the City over the next 30 years.
The following tables illustrate the total amount of acreage that
is included in each land use category as well as the amount of
acreage that is vacant for both the City Limits and the Planning
Area.

Vacant Land Use Assessment – City Limits

Vacant % Area
Total Acreage
Land Use Acreage in Vacant in
in Land Use
Category Land Use Land Use
Category
Category Category

Open Space 1,693 1,693 N/A

Rural 4,546 4,919 92.4

Neighborhoods 35,357 43,489 81.3

Commerce and
6,124 8,746 70.0
Business

Manufacturing
2,886 6,042 47.8
and Industry

Large Mixed-Use 887 1,816 48.8

Community
1,727 4,396 39.3
Corridor

Downtown 178 662 26.9

Figure 3:21 The Percentage of Acres of Vacant Land within Casa Grande’s City Limits.
Source: City of Casa Grande

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 41

 Vacant Land Use Assessment – Planning Area
Vacant % Area
Total Acreage
Acreage in Vacant in
Land Use Category in Land Use
Land Use Land Use
Category
Category Category

Open Space 2,892 2,892 N/A

Rural 55,790 78,559 71.0

Neighborhoods 39,762 51,395 77.4

Commerce and 8,844 13696

64.6
Business

Manufacturing and
9,845 16137 61.0
Industry

Large Mixed-Use 3,384 4406 76.8

Community 1,908 4679

40.8
Corridor

Downtown 255 744 34.3

Figure 3:22 The Percentage of Acres of Vacant Land within Casa Grande’s Planning Area.
Source: City of Casa Grande

42 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

The table below (Figure 3:23) provides a comparison of the amount
of vacant acreage that is available in select land use categories to
the anticipated demand. This data indicates that there is generally
more than enough land available in each of the land use categories
within the existing City Limits to accommodate anticipated
growth over the next 30 years. While there is enough land in the
Manufacturing and Industry category to accommodate growth, it
may be necessary, over time, to annex additional land to maintain
a robust supply of vacant land for new development. Accordingly,
the city will likely need to annex some land within the Planning
Area that is classified as Manufacturing & Industry to meet the land
demand for that sector. There is significantly more land included
in the Neighborhoods and Commerce & Business categories than
is needed to accommodate anticipated growth over the next 30
years.

Land Needed to Accommodate Growth 2020-2050

Minimum Acres
Vacant Vacant Acres
Land Use Needed to
Acres in in Planning
Category Accommodate
City Limits Area
Anticipated Growth

Neighborhoods 4,799 33,357 39,762

Commerce and
268 6,225 8,945
Business
Manufacturing
2,331 2,886 9,845
and Industry
Figure 3:23 Acreage Needed to Accommodate Growth in Relation to Vacant Land in Casa Grande’s City
Limits and Planning Area.
Source: City of Casa Grande

Having significantly more land designated for specific land uses

than is needed to accommodate anticipated growth points to
the need to ensure that the sites proposed for development can
be served by infrastructure and city services in a cost-effective
manner. A lack of adequate monitoring of where and how growth
occurs can lead to non-contiguous developments with large vacant
gaps of land between them. This type of disjointed development
pattern is more costly to serve with both infrastructure (i.e. streets,
water, wastewater, and dry utilities) as well as city services (i.e. fire
and police protection, sanitation services, street maintenance, etc.).

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 43

 The abundant amount of land in the Neighborhoods and
Commerce and Business land use categories can result in large
vacant areas being left undeveloped between developments that
will not be ripe for development until far beyond the timeframe
of this General Plan. The fact that this General Plan encourages
multi-family development in the Downtown and Community
Corridor land use categories, and allows it within the Commerce
and Business and Large Mixed-Use categories, will further slow
development demand within the Neighborhoods land use
category.
In an effort to ensure that development occurs in the most cost-
effective fashion, the concept of phased Growth Areas has been
created. The Phase I Growth Area has been formulated to reflect
the area of the city where growth can be provided with water and
wastewater service as well as other municipal services in a cost-
effective manner. The following criteria were used in determining if
a property should be included in the Phase I Growth Area:
1. Whether the property had approved Certificates of Assured
Water Supply (CAWS) or could be provided water service
by alternative means if development of the site could be
accomplished without CAWS.
2. Whether the property could be served by the Casa Grande
wastewater treatment facility or could be developed using
alternative wastewater service.
3. Whether the property could be provided fire, police,
sanitation, and street maintenance services in a cost-
effective manner.
4. Whether the property was in a land use classification that
allowed urban-level development.
5. Whether the property was currently within the City limits or
was in the process of being annexed.
As a result of applying these criteria, properties included within
the Phase I Growth Area included all subdivisions with Final or
Preliminary Plats, as well as condominium or townhome sites with
approved Certificates of Assured Water Supply. The boundaries
of the Phase I Growth Area have also been configured to include
properties that the City can serve from its existing wastewater
treatment facility and which meet the other criteria.
Development may occur in the Phase II Growth Area if it is
located within the Rural land use category, can be served with
alternative water and wastewater facilities, and does not require
typical levels of municipal services. An example would be the low
density residential development in the Northeast Annexation
area. Since water supply, wastewater service and the ability to
provide municipal services changes over time, development may
be reclassified from Phase II to Phase I Growth Area via a General
Plan amendment process with a finding that it meets the Phase I
Growth Area criteria.

44 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 An evaluation of the approved Certificates of
Assured Water Supply (CAWS) associated with
vacant/undeveloped single-family lots and
condominium/townhome sites indicates that there
are:
• 19,202 vacant/undeveloped single-family lots
with CAWS
• 3,158 CAWS associated with vacant
condominium/townhome sites
• 22,528 total residential units with CAWS
An analysis of the number of vacant acres within
each land use category within the Phase I Growth
Area indicates that there is adequate land available
to meet Casa Grande’s growth and development
needs for the next 30 years.

Vacant Land Use Assessment – Growth Area I

Vacant % Area
Total Acreage
Land Use Acreage in Vacant in
in Land Use
Category Land Use Land Use
Category
Category Category

Open Space 628 628 N/A

Rural 153 583 26.3

Neighborhoods 17,671 25,542 69.2

Commerce and
5,137 7,758 66.2
Business
Manufacturing
3,562 6,795 52.4
and Industry
Large Mixed-
540 1,470 36.7
Use
Community
1,302 4,074 32.0
Corridor

Downtown 178 662 26.9

Figure 3:24 Percentage of Vacant Land in Casa Grande’s Phase I Growth Area.
Source: City of Casa Grande

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 45

 Land Needed to Accommodate Growth 2020-2050
Minimum
Vacant
Acres
Acres Phase
Land Use Needed to Vacant Acres
I Growth
Category Accommodate in City Limits
Planning
Anticipated
Area
Growth
Neighborhoods
4,799 17,674 35,357
(Residential)

Commerce and
268 5137 6124
Business

Manufacturing
2,331 3,562 2,886
and Industry
Figure 3:25 Acres of Land Needed to Accommodate Growth
Source: City of Casa Grande

46 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.2: Certificates
3:2 CERTIFICATES ofSUPPLY
OF ASSURED WATER Assured Water Supply
Approved CAWS Areas

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Weaver Rd

Overfield Rd
Pinal Ave
Anderson Rd

Russell Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd

Estrella Rd
Corrales Rd

Signal Peak Rd
Ethington Rd
Final Plats

Preliminary Plats

Condo Area with CAWS

Total Available CAWS Certificates in

Val Vista Blvd Val Vista Blvd Final Plats: 6,313

Total Available CAWS Certificates in

Preliminary Plats: 12,879

Woodruff Rd Woodruff Rd Total Available CAWS Certificates in

Condo Parcels: 3,098

Total Lots: 22,290

McCartney Rd McCartney Rd
Boundaries
City Limits
Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd
Planning Area

Kortsen Rd Kortsen Rd
Other Features
Interstate
Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln Major Road

²
Gila Bend Hwy Florence Blvd

Peters Rd Earley Rd

0 0.75 1.5 3
Selma Hwy Selma Hwy Miles

Version Date: 12/11/2020

Cornman Rd Cornman Rd
Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,
GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
IGN, and the GIS User Community
Hanna Rd Hanna Rd
Montgomery Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Ethington Rd
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy

Henness Rd
Corrales Rd
Midway Rd

Estrella Rd
Russell Rd

Bianco Rd

Trekell Rd
Burris Rd

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

Chapter 3 | Element Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 47

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48 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.3:
3:3 2030 Growth
GROWTH Accommodation
ACCOMMODATION AREAS Areas
Growth Areas
Phase 1 Growth Area

Phase 2 Growth Area

Boundaries
City Limits

Planning Area Boundary

Other Features
Interstate

Major Road

Minor Road
Phase 1 Railroads

Phase 2
0 0.5 1
² 2 3
Miles

Version Date: 11/14/2020

Note: Growth accommodation areas are

subject to change. See Major and Minor
General Plan Amendments for information
about amending the growth
accommodation areas map for appropriate
developments.

Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,

GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
IGN, and the GIS User Community

Chapter 3 | Element Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 49

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50 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure 3.4: Wastewater Service Boundary

Cox Rd
Map Figure 3:4 WASTEWATER SERVICE BOUNDARY

Sewer Areas

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Overfield Rd
Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Weaver Rd

Curry Rd

Tweedy Rd
Pinal Ave
Fuqua Rd

Russell Rd
Murphy Rd

Anderson Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd

Eleven Mile Corner Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Stanfield Rd

Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd

Signal Peak Rd
Casa Grande Sewer District

East Sewer Expansion Area

Global Water - Santa Cruz
Water Co. (provides sewer)

Val Vista Blvd Val Vista Blvd Boundaries

City Limits
Woodruff Rd Woodruff Rd
Planning Area Boundary

McCartney Rd McCartney Rd
Other Features
Rodeo Rd Interstate
Rodeo Rd
Major Road

Kortsen Rd Kortsen Rd Minor Road

Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln

Gila Bend Hwy Florence Blvd

Peters Rd Peters Rd

²
Selma Rd Selma Rd

Cornman Rd Cornman Rd
0 0.5 1 2 3
Miles
Hanna Rd Hanna Rd
Version Date: 12/11/2020

Arica Rd Arica Rd Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,

GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
IGN, and the GIS User Community
Shedd Rd

Eleven Mile Corner Rd

Montgomery Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Ethington Rd
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy
Stanfield Rd

Henness Rd
Corrales Rd
Midway Rd
Murphy Rd

Tweedy Rd
Russell Rd

Bianco Rd

Trekell Rd
Fuqua Rd

Burris Rd

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd

Curry Rd
Peart Rd

Chapter 3 | Element Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 51

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52 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Annexation
Annexations must comply with the state statutory requirements
of contiguity and shape of the area to be annexed as well as 51%
property owner approval and property valuation criteria within the
identified area. In addition, municipalities must be able to provide
all annexed areas with appropriate levels of municipal services and
infrastructure within 10 years of annexation. Lastly, care has to be
taken to ensure that an annexation does not totally surround an
unincorporated area creating a “county island” as prohibited by
state law.
The need to annex land within our Planning Area that is classified
as Manufacturing and Industry to meet our projected land use
needs has been previously documented. Additionally, there
are other areas within the Planning Area that warrant strong
consideration for future annexation as they would be logical
extensions of the city boundaries and have various benefits to the
city. These areas are outlined in this section.

Casa Grande/Maricopa Highway South Annexation

This annexation consists of approximately 1065 acres located
southwest of the Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway/UPPR tracks,
with its western boundary being Bianco Rd.; its eastern boundary
being Burris Road; and Clayton Road as its southern boundary.
This property is classified as Manufacturing and Industry and is
located within the Phase I Growth Area and can be readily served
with utilities, municipal services, and transportation infrastructure,
although significant utility and transportation improvements will
have to be made prior to any significant industrial development
occurring in this area.

Southern Industrial Area

This annexation consists of approximately 6300 acres that are
roughly bounded on the west by the Burris Road alignment; on the
east by Chuichu Road; on the south by I-8; and on the north by the
existing corporate limits. Most of this property is contained within
the Manufacturing and Industry land use category with a small
portion along I-8 contained within the Commerce and Business
land use category. This annexation is needed to accommodate
future industrial growth. Although this area is currently contained
within the Phase II Growth Area, it is assumed that it can be
reclassified as Phase I in conjunction with annexation as both
Thornton and Burris Roads are programed for improvement in
the near future to arterial standards. The interstate connectivity
for both Burris and Thornton Roads will also likely be improved
in conjunction with the arterial improvements, making this area
ripe for future industrial development. This area can also be
readily served with sewer, water and municipal services. There is

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 53

 a major sewer main in Burris Road and industrial development is
typically not contained within subdivisions that require Certificates
of Assured Water Supply. Although this area is under multiple
ownerships, the vast majority of the area is made up of large vacant
parcels of land held by owners who would likely be receptive to
annexation as it will make their property more developable.

Mountain View Estates

This annexation consists of a large subdivision containing
approximately 737 acres which is adjacent to the southeast
corner of the Casa Grande Mountain Open Space area. Some of
the lots within this subdivision have been developed, especially
in the northern area of the subdivision. However, the majority of
the lots remain undeveloped, some subdivision infrastructure,
such as paved streets and utility infrastructure has been installed.
This area is currently served by Arizona Water Company with
wastewater provided through the use of individual septic tanks,
although sewer mains have been installed in some of the area in
anticipation of future centralized wastewater service. Currently,
access is provided via Arica Road from Sunland Gin Road. However,
in the future the Mountain View Estates street network is designed
to connect to the city streets developed in the adjacent PAD. Once
these future street connections are made fire, police and sanitation
service will be able to be provided more efficiently. Upon
annexation this area could be classified as a Phase 1 Growth Area
and could provide additional sites for custom homes. The proximity
to the Casa Grande Mountain Open Space and foothills make this
a desirable location. Municipal services and infrastructure can
be provided especially as the adjacent PAD develops in the city.
Obstacles to annexation include the stormwater management
facilities and street construction that serve the existing lots do
not meet city standards and may have to be upgraded. Also, the
high number of individual owners of both developed and vacant
lots may present a challenge to obtaining the required number of
property owners to consent to annexation.

Northeast Annexation
This annexation area contains approximately 8,300 acres and
consists of multiple low-density residential developments and
subdivisions intermixed with large vacant parcels. This area is
bounded on the south by McCartney Rd.; on the east by Overfield
Rd.; on the north by the Gila River Indian Community lands; and
on the west by I-10. This area is classified as Rural except for an
area of Commerce and Business located at the Val Vista Blvd.
and McCartney Rd. interchanges with I-10. This area is located
within the Phase II Growth area and the rural nature of this area
will allow the current low-density residential pattern to continue
without being reclassified into Phase I; nor would a General Plan

54 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

amendment be necessary to remove it from the Rural classification.
Wastewater treatment is provided using individual septic systems
and water is provided by Arizona Water Company. The subdivisions
in this area pre-date the creation of the Pinal Groundwater Active
Management Area and thus are not subject to having Certificates
of Assured Water Supply. Accordingly, the continued low-density
residential growth of custom and semi-custom homes and
rural commercial development can be expected to occur in this
area into the future. Annexation of this area would be a logical
extension of the city’s boundaries and would result in bringing the
city’s North Mountain Park and Central Arizona College into the
corporate boundaries. Issues that would need to be addressed with
this annexation would be:
1. Whether police, fire, street, and sanitation services could be
provided in a cost-effective manner. A Cost-Benefit analysis
should be completed in conjunction with the annexation of
this area to assist in the evaluation of this issue.
2. Many of the streets are un-paved and thus present
maintenance issues as well as create dust that result in PM-
10 non-compliance.
3. The paved streets do not meet city standards and may
present higher than normal maintenance costs.
4. There is a high number of individual property owners
of both developed and vacant parcels that may make
obtaining the necessary 51% of property owner consent to
annexation difficult to achieve.
North Pinal
There are several smaller areas within the Pinal Ave. corridor north
of Val Vista Blvd. that should be considered for future annexation
as they are a logical extension of the city boundaries and can be
easily served with municipal services. These areas are:

West of Pinal/North of Val Vista

This area consists of approximately 1000 acres that are mostly
developed as low-density single-family homes, but it also contains
a manufactured home park and manufactured home subdivision
built to a medium-density standard. There are also a few large
undeveloped tracts of land within this area as well. A portion of
the area is already provided wastewater service by the city as we
have previously extended mains to serve some of the existing
developed and vacant lots in the Desert Vista Subdivision. The
remainder of the area is served by private on-site wastewater septic
systems. Water service is provided to this area by Arizona Water
Company. This area is classified as Neighborhoods in the General
Plan and located in the Phase II Growth Area. Upon annexation this
area can be re-classified as Phase I Growth Area once municipal
services are extended to it.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 55

 Issues that would need to be addressed with this annexation
would be:
1. Whether police, fire, street, and sanitation services could be
provided in a cost-effective manner. A Cost-Benefit analysis
should be completed in conjunction with the annexation of
this area to assist in the evaluation of this issue.
2. The paved streets do not meet city standards and may
present higher than normal maintenance costs.
3. The stormwater facilities do not meet city standards and
may need to be upgraded.
4. There is a high number of individual property owners
of both developed and vacant parcels that may make
obtaining the necessary 51% of property owner consent to
annexation difficult to achieve.
East of Pinal/North of Val Vista
This area consists of approximately 731 acres that are mostly
developed as low-density single-family, but it also contains a
manufactured home park and recreational vehicle park built to a
medium-density standard. There are also a few large undeveloped
tracts of land within this area as well. This area has ample adjacent
transportation infrastructure as its southern boundary is Val Vista
Blvd. – which is planned to be upgraded to a 4-land parkway – its
western boundary is Pinal Ave., and I-10 is its eastern boundary.
This area is served by private on-site wastewater septic systems,
although city wastewater mains exist adjacent to the northern and
western boundary. Water service is provided to this area by Arizona
Water Company. The Pinal Ave. and western portion of the Val Vista
frontage of this area is classified as Community Corridor, while
the remainder of the Val Vista frontage is contained within the
Commerce and Business land use category. The remainder of the
area is classified as Rural. The entire area is in the Phase II Growth
Area; however, upon annexation this area can be re-classified
as Phase I Growth Area once municipal services are extended to
it. Issues that would need to be addressed with this annexation
would be:
1. Whether police, fire, street, and sanitation services could be
provided in a cost-effective manner. A Cost-Benefit analysis
should be completed in conjunction with the annexation of
this area to assist in the evaluation of this issue.
2. The paved streets do not meet city standards and may
present higher than normal maintenance costs.
3. The stormwater facilities do not meet city standards and
may need to be upgraded.
4. There is a high number of individual property owners
of both developed and vacant parcels that may make
obtaining the necessary 51% of property owner consent to
annexation difficult to achieve.

56 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

West Side of North Pinal
There are two areas just to the west of N. Pinal Ave. that would be
a logical extension of the city boundaries as they both are adjacent
to the city limits on three sides (east, south, and west). These areas
are also adjacent to a large PAD-zoned master-planned community
located within the city limits.
The eastern area contains approximately 155 acres and has
approximately 1/2 mile of Pinal Ave. frontage as its eastern border,
and is bounded on the north by the Gila River Reservation.
The Pinal Ave. frontage is contained within the Community
Corridor land use category while the western half is classified as
Neighborhoods. All of this area is vacant but has been platted into
large lots.
The western area contains approximately 181 acres and has been
broken up into parcels for low-density residential development.
Approximately 1/3 of the parcels contain custom single-family
homes with the remainder being vacant. There is platted street
right of way, but most remain unpaved. This area is served by
private on-site wastewater septic systems; some homes in this
area receive water service by temporary service lines connected
to the Arizona Water Company system, while others are served by
individual wells. Accordingly, the continued low-density residential
growth of custom and semi-custom homes utilizing individual
septic systems and water wells can be expected to occur in this
area into the future. This area is located within the Rural land
use category in which low-density residential development is
appropriate.
Issues that would need to be addressed with this annexation
would be:
1. Whether police, fire, street, and sanitation services could be
provided in a cost-effective manner. A Cost-Benefit analysis
should be completed in conjunction with the annexation of
this area to assist in the evaluation of this issue.
2. Many of the streets are unpaved and thus present
maintenance issues as well as create dust that results in PM-
10 non-compliance.
3. The provision of water mains that allow connection for all
homes to the Arizona Water Company system. This may
have to be accomplished through the creation of a Special
District to finance the new water mains.
4. There is a high number of individual property owners
of both developed and vacant parcels that may make
obtaining the necessary 51% of property owner consent to
annexation difficult to achieve.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 57

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58 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.5:ANNEXATION
3:5 FUTURE FutureAREAS
Annexation Areas
Boundaries

Montgomery Rd
Midway Rd

Thornton Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Weaver Rd

Overfield Rd

Tweedy Rd
Pinal Ave
Murphy Rd

Anderson Rd

Russell Rd

Cox Rd

Estrella Rd

Eleven Mile Corner Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Stanfield Rd

Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd

Signal Peak Rd
Fuqua Rd

Annexation Areas

City Limits

Planning Area Boundary

North Pinal
Val Vista Blvd Annexation Areas Val Vista Blvd Other Features
2068 acres Northeast Interstate
Woodruff Rd Annexation Woodruff Rd
Major Road
8327 acres
McCartney Rd McCartney Rd
Total Planned Annexation Area:
18,645 acres
Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd
New Corporate City Area:
Approx. 89,600 acres
Casa Grande-Maricopa
Kortsen Rd Kortsen Rd
Highway South Annexation
1198 acres
Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln

Gila Bend Hwy Florence Blvd

Peters Rd Earley Rd

²
Selma Hwy Selma Hwy
South Industrial
Annexation
Cornman Rd Cornman Rd
6315 acres
0 0.5 1 2 3
Hanna Rd Hanna Rd Miles

Version Date: 01/05/2021

Arica Rd Arica Rd
Mountain View Estates Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,
GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
Annexation CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
Shedd Rd IGN, and the GIS User Community
736 acres

Eleven Mile Corner Rd

Montgomery Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Ethington Rd
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy
Stanfield Rd

Henness Rd
Corrales Rd
Midway Rd
Murphy Rd

Tweedy Rd
Estrella Rd
Russell Rd

Bianco Rd

Trekell Rd
Fuqua Rd

Burris Rd

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

Chapter 3 | Element Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 59

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60 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Rural Land Use

Honoring the rural and agricultural heritage of

Casa Grande.
Pinal County has long been an agriculturally rich region, and Casa
Grande’s history of blending commercial agricultural and rural
lifestyles is integral to the City’s character today. Generations
of families have settled in Casa Grande to tend the land since
its incorporation, and these family farms have contributed to
the growth and economic vitality of the City. Over the years,
commercial agriculture has grown as new agricultural businesses
move into the community to raise livestock and produce dairy,
cotton, wheat, and other agricultural products.
Rural land use areas realize the economic potential of the City’s
agricultural lands without compromising the rural lifestyle of
the surrounding areas. Central to this lifestyle are the natural,
unobstructed views of the region and the wealth of native wildlife
and vegetation that are treasured by residents. Low density
development within the Rural category will achieve this balance
between rural economic use and resource preservation, ensuring
sustainable growth and land use compatibility.
Preserving rural areas will discourage unplanned sprawl and
maintain Casa Grande’s diverse economic and lifestyle offerings. It
will also minimize negative impacts of development on adjacent
Tribal Community agricultural lands, creating harmonious land
uses within the overarching region.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 61

 Sustaining agricultural productivity and rural
lifestyles.
Contrary to many communities, Casa Grande’s Rural land use
category is more than just a placeholder for future development. The
City seeks to actively protect important agricultural assets and rural
communities.
Reserving rural areas for farming and other agricultural activities
encourages diverse economic activity in Casa Grande while
preserving views of the mountains and open spaces that are
central to the City’s character. Major roadways will be designed to
accommodate agricultural traffic and regional connections.
Rural areas will also feature low-density residential developments
designed to complement rather than encroach upon the surrounding
environment and natural landscapes. Residential communities in
Rural land use areas should conserve open spaces and implement
designs that ensure the health of the surrounding environment. Low
densities, larger home lots, and limited urban services will define
Rural developments. Environmental features, such as washes and
arroyos, should be carefully incorporated into developments to
create unique rural places.
Small commercial developments compatible with rural activity,
religious institutions, and other amenities will create complete
communities in Rural areas. Rural land use areas also serve as prime
locations to further Casa Grande’s sustainability goals, providing
opportunities for the development of renewable energy resources.
Careful attention to natural environments in Rural land use areas
will allow the City to monitor fragile habitats and preserve the
biodiversity of native plants and animals.

What can I build in Rural areas?

Appropriate Land Uses Appropriate Base Zoning Categories
• Farming and Agricultural • UR – Urban Ranch Residential Zone
• Residential (low density) • RR – Rural Ranch Residential Zone
• Rural Commercial/Office • SH – Suburban Homestead Residential
• Public facilities Zone
• Religious institutions • B-1 – Neighborhood Business Zone
• Utility-level solar facilities • B-2 – General Business Zone (less than 5
• Rural recreational/open space uses acres)
• CO – Commercial Office
• Residential PAD – Maximum one (1)
residential dwelling unit per acre
• Commercial PAD for large-scale commercial
agriculture and utility solar developments

62 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

What standards guide Rural development?
General Development Standards
• Developments shall reflect rural/agricultural design themes.
• No more than 20 acres, within a ½ mile radius, shall be used for
neighborhood commercial/office developments.
• Developments should be located on collector and/or arterial
streets.
• New developments shall include streets that are paved and
maintained to provide adequate levels of service.
• Use to use compatibility between agricultural and non-
agricultural uses shall be achieved through building and site
design components such as physical separation, building
setbacks, and landscape buffers.
• Individual site access from arterial roadways may be allowed
on a limited basis.
• Arterial, collector, and local streets may be offset from the
existing City grid.
• Streets should be paved according to rural design norms.
• Natural washes and arroyos shall be preserved and
incorporated into developments’ open space areas.
• Pedestrian and/or equestrian connectivity to adjacent trail
and/or community open space networks shall be provided.

Rural Infrastructure Development Standards

• Developments may be adjacent to or include open irrigation
ditches and canals.
• Developments may be adjacent to or include above ground
utility wires such as electric and communication lines.
• Developments may, where appropriate, make provisions for
on-site water and wastewater treatment facilities.

Rural City Services

• Trash collection shall be made available through the City
sanitation department when the site is within City limits.
• Emergency, safety, and municipal services may be available,
but the level of service may be below typical City norms.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 63

 Residential Specific Development Standards
Site Design Standards
• Single-family developments shall build homes on individual
lots with a maximum gross density of 1 du/ac.
• Maximum residential lot coverage is 25%.
• Developments shall conserve open spaces, natural landscapes,
and habitats as well as allow for expansive views.
• Walking, biking, and equestrian trails shall be encouraged in
the open space design of residential developments; when
possible, trails should provide connectivity to community and
regional trail systems.
• Developments shall limit the use of fencing that obstructs the
view of the surrounding community.
Building Design Standards
• Rural design elements shall be present in the form and design
of buildings, landscaping, and other site components.

Non-Residential Specific Development Standards

Site Design Standards
• Sites of 5 or more acres shall dedicate at least 50% of the site
area to public open space in the form of seating, gardens, or
shaded areas that connote a rural town feel.
• Surface parking areas may be covered with a dust free surface
as an alternative to conventional paving.
• Developments shall ensure compatibility with surrounding
rural land uses. Design factors such as scale, massing,
buffering, and open space shall be considered in determining
compatibility.
Building Design Standards
• Developments shall have a maximum Floor Area Ratio of 0.15

Which General Plan goals align with our vision

for Rural land use?
GOAL R-1: Conserve rural landscapes and development
patterns.
Action Step R-1.1: Promote the appropriate use of voluntary
conservation easements and density transfers within rural
areas.
Action Step R-1.2: Require new development in rural areas to
be compatible with existing development in design, form, and
scale.
Action Step R-1.3: Plan and design public buildings,
infrastructure, and improvements to be compatible with rural
landscapes.

64 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

GOAL R-2: Ensure the visual distinction between
suburban and rural areas through development patterns,
architecture, and design.
Action Step R-2.1: Create a variety of residential lot sizes within
rural areas.
Action Step R-2.2: Discourage the use of solid walls around
the perimeter of a property to maintain view sheds and visual
openness.
Action Step R-2.3: Integrate canals and other agricultural
features into site plans and development when practical.
Action Step R-2.4: Develop a rural road standard that minimizes
dust pollution and reflects rural development patterns.
Action Step R-2.5: Encourage the use of building materials
compatible with the surrounding rural, desert landscapes.
Action Step R-2.6: Develop a Citywide Gateway Plan to
highlight key entrances into the City.
Action Step R-2.7: Require new development adjacent to rural/
agricultural areas within the City and its Planning Area to be no
more than one (1) story higher than the adjacent development.
GOAL R-3: Protect Casa Grande’s unique historic and
natural features.
Action Step R-3.1: Be sensitive to any changes in the location,
capacity, function and form of washes, arroyos, alluvial fans,
and other natural features.
Action Step R-3.2: Encourage the use of native landscaping.
Action Step R-3.3: Encourage the use of stabilized soil surfaces
for driveways and parking areas.
GOAL R-4: Encourage investment in services while
maintaining the unique lifestyle and character of rural
areas.
Action Step R-4.1: Work with utility and communication
providers to expand access to modern infrastructure (such as
broadband access).
Action Step R-4.2: Work with educational and health care
entities to ensure adequate access to services in rural areas.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 65

 GOAL R-5: Ensure that proposed commercial
developments are an appropriate scale that complements
rural lifestyles and serves the economic and operational
needs of rural areas.
Action Step R-5.1: Coordinate with developers of commercial
projects to identify potential impacts to rural and agricultural
lifestyles that could occur as a result of the development.
Consider possible mitigation measures for developers to
undertake if necessary.
Action Step R-5.2: Improve communication between the City
and rural residents and businesses.
GOAL R-6: Continue to work with Casa Grande’s
commercial farmers and ranchers to support their right to
farm.
Action Step R-6.1: Require new development within a half-
mile of existing agricultural uses to provide disclosure that
outlines elements of agricultural practices to all prospective
homebuyers and commercial tenants.
Action Step R-6.2: Promote Farmers Markets that allow food
that is locally produced to be sold directly to residents.
GOAL R-7: Promote an appropriate, sustainable balance
between rural and urban areas.
Action Step R-7.1: Ensure that rezoning requests are in
conformance with the Land Use Map.
Action Step R-7.2: Discourage amendments to the Land Use
Map resulting in the elimination of more than 3% of the
total net acres of Rural land, as calculated at the time of the
proposed amendment.
GOAL R-8: Evaluate and consider the impacts of
proposed annexations on the City’s economic, social, and
environmental conditions.
Action Step R-8.1: Develop a qualitative and quantitative cost
benefit analysis for all annexations.
Action Step R-8.2: Work with Pinal County to obtain notice prior
to lot splits within the City’s Planning Area.

66 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

GOAL R-9: Explore the City’s potential and capacity for
solar industry development.
Action Step R-9.1: Identify rural areas that offer the potential
to utilize natural resources through investment in the solar
industry.
Action Step R-9.2: Permit solar energy production facilities in
appropriate areas of rural land use.
GOAL R-10: Identify and protect public views of the Casa
Grande and Sacaton Mountains, agricultural landscapes,
and public open spaces.
GOAL R-11: Minimize land use conflicts between City
development and adjacent Tribal Communities.
Action Step R-11.1: Require the use of 300-foot wide open space
and/or other natural buffers between new development and
adjacent Tribal farming operations.
Action Step R-11.2: Require new developments that are adjacent
to agricultural/rural areas and farming operations within the
Ak Chin Indian Community to be no more than one (1) story
higher than the adjacent Tribal area development.
Action Step R-11.3: Require new development within a half-mile
of existing agricultural uses in Tribal Communities to provide
disclosure that outlines elements of agricultural practices to all
prospective homebuyers and commercial tenants.
Action Step R-11.4: Continue to work with representatives of
abutting Tribal Communities to discuss the potential impact of
proposed new development on existing agricultural operations
and to discuss possible mitigation measures.
GOAL R-12: Improve environmental accountability and
integrate energy efficiency measures in rural residential
and agricultural development.
Action Step R-12.1: Encourage new and existing residential
developments to implement energy efficient design, renewable
energy systems, and water conservation measures.
Action Step R-12.2: Encourage new and existing agricultural
developments to implement energy efficient processes and
water conservation measures into their agricultural activities.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 67

 Neighborhoods Land Use

Building the foundation for a vibrant

community.
The Neighborhoods land use category creates community
hubs that offer safe, healthy places to live, work, and play.
Neighborhoods are composed of a variety of interconnected
residential developments with thoughtfully placed non-
residential uses that offer neighborhood-level amenities and
services. Residential developments provide the foundation for
City neighborhoods, while commercial developments provide
places to connect residential areas and strengthen community
ties. Neighborhoods should be walkable, bikeable areas that
provide safe access to both housing and community amenities.
Neighborhoods land use areas influence the layout of the City, and
are a key factor in defining what makes Casa Grande a desirable
place to call home.

Enhancing community character through

neighborhood design.
Vibrant communities appropriately blend residential and non-
residential uses to create harmonious environments. Variety in
neighborhood design ensures that the City offers desirable lifestyle
choices to a diverse, growing resident population. Creating a range
of different housing types, amenities, and services that match the
character of their respective neighborhoods paves the way for
culturally sustainable growth.
Although neighborhoods land use areas are anchored
by residential development, they should also contain an
appropriate amount of non-residential uses. Schools, parks,
religious institutions, and commercial developments serve as
complementary uses that enhance neighborhoods and should
be integrated into the fabric of the community. Non-residential
developments should be sensitive to scale and massing, matching
the neighborhood’s character through building and site design
features appropriate for neighborhood-level development.

68 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Compatibility between adjacent residential and non-residential
developments shall be promoted through the use of open
space, natural buffers, and other design features. Developments
should prioritize transit and pedestrian friendly designs that
provide access for future transit and allow for diverse mobility
options. Non-residential developments should be accessible from
residential areas by pedestrians and bicycles in order to improve
pedestrian circulation. Connectivity between neighborhood
trails and community/regional trail systems is encouraged when
possible.

What can I build in Neighborhoods areas?

Appropriate Land Uses Appropriate Base Zoning Categories

• Residential • R-1 – Single-Family Residential Zone
• Neighborhood Commercial/Office • R-1a – Single-Family Residential Zone
• Public facilities • R-2 – Multi-Family Residential Zone
• Religious institutions • R-3 – Multi-Family Residential Zone
• R-4 – Mobile Home Residential Zone
• B-1 – Neighborhood Business Zone
• B-2 – General Business Zone
• CO – Commercial Office Zone
• PAD – Planned Area Development

What standards guide Neighborhoods

development?
General Development Standards
• New development shall be designed to minimize adverse
impacts upon surrounding existing land uses.
• No more than 20% of Neighborhoods land area, within a ½ mile
radius, shall be used for medium or high density developments.
• No more than 12% of Neighborhoods land area, within a ½
mile radius, shall be used for neighborhood commercial/office
developments.
• Use to use compatibility between single-family residential,
multi-family residential, and non-residential developments shall
be achieved through the use of increased building setbacks,
landscape buffers, building height limits and building step-
backs.
• Non-residential developments should be located on collector
and/or arterial streets.
• Multi-family residential developments shall have primary direct
access to an arterial or collector street.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 69

 • Developments shall provide paved streets constructed to City
standards and connected to the Citywide grid at key access
points.
• Utilities shall be provided underground.
• Minimum required open space shall be 15% of residential site
areas or 10% of commercial site areas. All open space areas
shall be publicly usable and accessible, and be designed to
provide active and/or passive recreational uses. Open space
area requirements exclude detention, roadway landscaping,
and entry monuments.
• Direct pedestrian connectivity to adjacent trail and/or
community open space networks shall be provided.

Residential Specific Development Standards

Site Design Standards
• Single-family developments with homes on individual lots shall
have a maximum gross density of 4.5 du/ac.
• Medium density residential developments on single sites with
25 acres or less shall have a maximum gross density of 10 du/
ac.
• High density residential developments on single sites with 20
acres or less shall have a maximum gross density of 20 du/ac.
• No mathematical rounding down shall be allowed in density
calculations
Building Design Standards
• Multi-story developments adjacent to single-story
developments shall be sensitive to scale and massing to
maintain land use compatibility.

Non-Residential Specific Development Standards

Site Design Standards
• Direct pedestrian access shall be provided from the building to
the sidewalk network.
• Single commercial sites of up to 30 acres shall be designed
in such a way as to represent an appropriate neighborhood
human scale.
Building Design Standards
• Commercial developments shall have a maximum Floor Area
Ratio (FAR) of 0.25. Indoor parking areas shall not be included
in FAR calculations.

70 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Which General Plan goals align with our vision
for Neighborhoods land use?
GOAL N-1: The spatial form and design of developments
in Neighborhoods areas should be transit friendly and
appropriate to adjoining land uses.
Action Step N-1.1: Strive to expand multimodal transit
opportunities within the City, and surrounding region, by
encouraging the use of transit friendly design features in new
and existing developments.
Action Step N-1.2: Design neighborhoods so that housing, jobs,
retail, and community services are within walking and biking
distance of each other to provide opportunities for residents to
lead a healthy lifestyle.
GOAL N-2: Encourage developments to include an ample
supply of specialized open space in the form of squares,
greens, and parks, in which frequent use is encouraged
through accessibility, placement, design, and provide
opportunities for non-motorized pedestrian linkages
between open space areas to allow residents to engage in
health activities.
Action Step N-2.1: Action Step N-2.1: Apply the Center for the
Future of Arizona Natural Resource Progress Meter (https://
www.arizonafuture.org/az-progrsss-meters/overview/) to set
benchmarks on appropriate levels of open space per person
and to track progress over time.
GOAL N-3: Minimize land use conflicts.
Action Step N-3.1: Require physical separation such as fences,
berms, parks, or landscape areas between residential and non-
residential developments to increase use to use compatibility.
Action Step N-3.2: Promote compatibility between residential
developments of different scale by encouraging the use of
physical separation or landscape areas to separate adjacent
single and multi-story developments.
Action Step N-3.3: Increase the amount of medium
density housing within the City, and encourage the use of
medium density residential developments as transitional
buffers between low density and high density residential
developments.
Action Step N-3.4: Require the use of 300-foot wide open space
and/or other natural buffers between new development and
adjacent Tribal farming operations.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 71

 Action Step N-3.5: Developments adjacent to rural areas and/or
Tribal farming operations should be no more than one (1) story
higher than development in the adjacent area.
GOAL N-4: Encourage variety in neighborhood design and
development patterns.
Action Step N-4.1: Provide a variety of housing choice in
Neighborhoods areas for all income levels, generations, and
household demographics.
Action Step N-4.2: Encourage a range of residential
development types, densities, and building design with
Planned Area Developments throughout the City.
GOAL N-5: Maintain the quality of life in residential parts
of Neighborhoods areas.
Action Step N-5.1: Increase rehabilitation and revitalization
efforts for homes and businesses in older City neighborhoods.
GOAL N-6: Preserve the unique qualities of
neighborhoods within the City.
Action Step N-6.1: Encourage the design of commercial
buildings that reflect differences between neighborhoods, by
being sensitive to scale and massing.
Action Step N-6.2: Encourage building and site design elements
of new developments to blend in with existing developments
in order to strengthen the unique character and style of City
neighborhoods.

72 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Open Space Land Use

Preserving land for outdoor recreational opportunities, while

also keeping cherished areas undeveloped to maintain scenic
vistas and to ensure relief from the built environment.
One consequence of a growing community is that the surrounding openness
and access to nature gets increasingly limited. Residents within established
neighborhoods adjacent to privately-owned undeveloped land use these barren
areas informally for public use. There is a perception that this area is free for roaming,
and it serves as a convenient escape from urban surroundings. Once these lands are
constructed upon, views and access permanently change. Aspects about what made
a place special – the offering of a reprieve from the built environment – gets replaced
with more built environment.
While some level of open space is provided in conjunction with development, and
this open space serves as an important amenity and benefit, a land use designation
specifically purposed for Open Space is also vital. Open space provided for a
development is privately owned and intended primarily for the owners or guests
of that area. It is usually limited to residents of that respective neighborhood or
intended for employees and customers of a specific grouping of businesses. These
open space areas also tend to be unnatural, or ornamental. These areas are often
placed into a site after grading and other development has occurred. It is landscaped
with young trees and shrubs from nurseries, and these areas usually serve a dual
function as retention basins. The location, if not to capture drainage, is to simply
provide a minimal buffer between land uses.
The Open Space land use category, instead, is intended to primarily accommodate
an area’s natural state and to provide a nearby getaway within the growing urban
area. Areas designated as Open Space are primarily governmentally owned with the
intent for the area to be for public use including non-motorized trails, linking open
space areas and providing opportunities for residents to lead a healthy lifestyle. Less
common Open Space designated areas are large privately-owned land holdings,
where the public is granted access by means of an easement or agreement, such as a
nature conservancy.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 73

 Designating and using open space for the
public’s benefit.
The designation of Open Space tends to be upon areas that are
inherently or relatively undevelopable while also containing
natural amenities worthy of preservation. Examples include the
area surrounding the Santa Cruz River, where there are existing
City-owned parcels rich with riparian features and within a
designated floodway, ideal for the expansion of the City’s trail
system; or Casa Grande Mountain comprised of both City and
State owned property where there are areas of steep grade and
significant vegetation accommodating for natural-course trails.
Floodways and mountains are not as feasible for development as
many other areas of the community, and both can provide prized
scenery of and from the area, helping to permanently preserve
views that can serve as ways to create a positive visual identity for
Casa Grande. These areas also provide recreation-rich amenities
that can’t be easily produced in the built environment, such as
birdwatching, hiking, or mountain biking.
Within Open Space areas there will be a minimal amount of
structures; however, parking areas, restrooms, picnic areas,
natural or constructed shading, seating, stables, and equipment
storage would be expected. Some privately-leased uses within
City owned areas not recreational in nature are also warranted –
such as wireless telecommunication facilities and water treatment
– due to these types of facilities relying on these areas to best
accommodate that use. The understanding, however, is that these
facilities shall not conflict with the intended use of the Open Space
area. Disturbance of the land brought about by excessive grading,
filling, deforesting and vehicular traffic shall be prohibited.
This land use category also is interrelated to the Parks, Recreation,
Open Space and Trails element of the General Plan and should
serve as reference.

What can I build in Open Space areas?

Appropriate Land Uses Appropriate Base Zoning Categories

• Regional, Community, Linear and Mountain • UR – Urban Ranch Residential Zone
Parks • RR – Rural Ranch Residential Zone
• Community events such as races, guided • SH – Suburban Homestead Residential
walks, club activities, scavenger hunts Zone
• Public facilities and utility installations, • PAD – Planned Area Development Zone
wireless telecommunication facilities
• Public and Private recreational uses
• Any use granted a lease by the City

74 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

What standards guide Open Space management
and development?
General Development Standards
• Buildings shall be as low-profile as possible and of materials
and colors with less than 50% light reflectivity value. Buildings
should incorporate the same design theme and be constructed
of the same materials and colors to create branding and
identity among all the City Open Space areas.
• Buildings shall be oriented and constructed in a manner that
maximizes the views of the surrounding area from the building,
where appropriate.
• Structures shall be sited in a manner that masques its ability to
be seen from other land use areas, where practical.
• Development within or immediately impacting an Open
Space area shall not impede or shall otherwise be designed to
accommodate for open space uses. For example, a cell tower
and its equipment areas shall not impede or restrict a planned
or existing trail, unless said trail can reasonably be re-routed
through appropriate measures and the result is no net loss of
trail distance.
• Parking areas should use low-impact design and be sized
appropriately to discourage off-site, overflow parking.
• Access to most Open Space areas shall be encouraged by
means of connecting trails in addition to vehicular connection
to reduce the need for large parking areas.
• Appropriate signage shall be for navigation and wayfinding
and shall utilize the same design theme within all City Open
Spaces to create branding and identity.
• Easily accessible trash receptacles in parking areas and
trailheads shall be provided.
• Natural washes and arroyos shall be preserved and only
minimally affected to accommodate crossings or adjacent
paths.
• Pedestrian and/or equestrian connectivity to adjacent trail and/
or community open space networks shall be provided.
• Limited lighting shall be provided to promote Dark Skies.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 75

 Open Space Infrastructure Development Standards
• Roads designed to access open space areas shall be improved
with a dust-free surface.
• Trailheads and areas of high use shall be provided with
restroom facilities and access to drinking water, where practical.
Use of cisterns, septic, bio-composting, and battery/solar
operated lighting should be used if traditional purveyance of
utilities and services are impractical due to the remoteness or
potential disturbance of sensitive areas.
• New transmission lines are to be discouraged through open
space, however, any utility line deemed necessary should
undergo thorough public input and shall only be considered
if there only be minimal impact to the preservation and
enjoyment of the open space.
• Trails and other amenities are to be built to the standards
specified per the Community Services Master Plan, Casa Grande
Regional Trails System Master Plan, and Casa Grande Mountain
Park Trail System Master Plan.

Open Space City Services

• Trash collection from road-accessible trailheads shall be made
available.
• Maintenance shall be coordinated through Community
Services department or as delegated.
• Emergency, safety, and community services may be available,
but the level of service may be below adopted City norms.

Which General Plan goals align with our vision

for Open Space land use?
GOAL O-1: High quality parks, trails and open spaces
located throughout Casa Grande.
Action Step O-1.1: Review all new development proposals
for compliance with the Community Services Master Plan,
Casa Grande Regional Trail System Master Plan, Pinal County
Open Space & Trails Master Plan, and applicable Zoning Code
requirements.
Action Step O-1.2: Provide parks, trails and recreation facilities
to meet the standards adopted in the Community Services and
Regional Trails System Master Plans through the development
review process.
Action Step O-1.3: Use Crime Prevention through Environmental
Design (CPTED) principles to enhance public safety along the
trail system.

76 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step O-1.4: Use the Park Design Guidelines to update
existing City parks to meet the minimum standard requirement.
Action Step O-1.5: Establish required Level of Service (LOS)
to be met by all developed parks using the list of acceptable
components in the Park Design Guidelines as presented in the
Community Services Master Plan.
Action Step O-1.6: Develop new park and trail facilities
compliant with the design guidelines presented within the
Community Services Master Plan and Regional Trail System
Master Plan.
Action Step O-1.7: Encourage the use of low-maintenance park
features that are environmentally friendly and low water usage
landscaping for both City and non-city parks.
Action Step O-1.8: Work in partnership with developments,
adjacent communities, and other key stakeholders to identify
and dedicate land for trail corridors in accordance with the Casa
Grande Regional Trails Master Plan.
GOAL O-2: Adequate recreational facilities are easily
accessible.
Action Step O-2.1: Connect areas to schools, natural areas, and
other facilities by implementing the Casa Grande Regional
Trails Master Plan neighborhood trail system to link residential
and commercial areas and community facilities where feasible.
Action Step O-2.2: Roadway projects near a planned or existing
trail are to incorporate an appropriate trail crossing into its
design.
GOAL O-3: Coordinated park and trail planning and
programs between Casa Grande, Pinal County, and
neighboring jurisdictions.
Action Step O-3.1: Collaboration between the City and Pinal
County, neighboring municipalities, and state and federal
landowners and/or managers to coordinate and complement
recreation and open space amenities.
Action Step O-3.2: Work in partnership with appropriate
entities to ensure coordinated efforts are communicated and
supported to fully complement the City’s community resource
provision.
Action Step O-3.3: Conduct regularly scheduled coordination
meetings with Pinal County and other entities and
or jurisdictions as required to coordinate trail system
development in the region.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 77

 GOAL O-4: Expanded City network of open spaces, parks,
and trails.
Action Step O-4.1: Proactively identify, and when appropriate,
act on opportunities to acquire land or right of access for future
open spaces, parks, trails, and community facilities.
Action Step O-4.2: Target properties adjacent to Casa Grande
Mountain for purchase for open space expansion.
Action Step O-4.3: Develop a funding mechanism to allow
purchases of open space.
Action Step O-4.4: Create new parks in areas where residents are
not currently served.
Action Step O-4.5: Strive to meet the national standards
advertised by the National Recreation and Park Association in
2019 of at least 10.1 acres of developed park land per 1,000
residents, 8.3 full time equivalent employees per 10,000
residents, and $78.69 per capita spending per year.
Action Step O-4.6: Plan for new parks in expanding areas to
supplement the service currently being provided exclusively by
HOAs.
Action Step O-4.7: Ensure that all new parks be constructed to
provide adequate LOS.
Action Step O-4.8: Locate parks in new developments.
Action Step O-4.9: Explore the possibility of creating an Adopt-
A-Park program to help with park maintenance, beautification,
and civic pride.
Action Step O-4.10: As available, review land in growth areas for
future parks based on creating a consistent base LOS.
Action Step O-4.11: Continue to acquire land to develop a scenic
corridor around Casa Grande by connecting large parks with
greenways and multi-use trails.
Action Step O-4.12: Increase recreational resources by
maximizing the multi-purpose uses of existing open spaces.
Action Step O-4.13: Build partnerships within the community
to take advantage of existing facilities, share new facilities, and
help maintain community facilities.
Action Step O-4.14: Supplement public-owned open spaces
with private open space resources.

78 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Action Step O-4.15: Create a comprehensive resource plan
using all resources in the Casa Grande area to enhance the
Community Services Department programs and services.
Action Step O-4.16: Continue to plan for the provision of
recreational amenities and natural area conservation in line
with the Center for the Future of Arizona Natural Resource
Progress Meter benchmarks (https://www.arizonafuture.org/az-
progrsss-meters/natural-resources/overview/).

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 79

 Downtown Land Use

A strong foundation for Casa Grande’s growth.

The Downtown land use category is designed to facilitate the
creation of a vibrant and lively urban core for the City and the
region. A strong downtown is essential for realizing the vision of
this General Plan – building smart infill development, managing
public investments, linking land use and water resources,
encouraging environmental responsibility, and promoting local
economic growth.

A secure investment in Casa Grande’s future.

The location, existing infrastructure, and configuration of the
downtown area will serve as the catalyst for renewal with the goal
of creating the “gathering place” for the community. The historic
center of Casa Grande has outstanding development potential
– featuring a number of unique regional assets (museums),
fundamental businesses (grocery stores, offices, restaurants, etc.),
and several historic buildings. Given these attributes, downtown
has the potential to become a true urban core for the region.
The Downtown land use category outlines strategies for restoring
downtown Casa Grande. Emphasizing local culture while providing
new development opportunities and services to an expanding
population of downtown residents will harness the potential of the
area.

80 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

What can I build in the Downtown area?
Appropriate Land Uses Appropriate Base Zoning Categories
• Residential (medium to high density) • R-2 – Multi-Family Residential Zone
• Commercial (Medium Density)
• Mixed Residential/Commercial • R-3 – Multi-Family Residential Zone
• Offices • (High Density)
• Medical Campus/Hospital • B-3 – Central Business Zone
• Professional Services • PAD – Planned Area Development
• Restaurants/Bars/Taverns
• Entertainment
• Hospitality
• Educational facilities
• Public facilities
• Religious institutions

What standards guide Downtown development?

General Development Standards
• All new developments shall complement the existing
surrounding development, particularly historic structures and
existing residential development.
• Buildings and site design shall have a pedestrian orientation:
» Main entrances to buildings should be visible from the
sidewalk and street.
» Entrances shall have pedestrian access from the building
to the public sidewalk.
» Wherever possible, vehicle access and parking should not
interfere with the front elevation of the building.
• Outdoor common areas interior to developments shall be
encouraged for all buildings.
• Open spaces on lots shall take on an urban form, including
plaza areas and buildings/architecture that frames the open
space.
• Street spaces and public parks shall function as the primary
open spaces in downtown areas, reducing requirements for
private developments.
• The provision of wide sidewalks and additional open space
that can accommodate pedestrian use and outside activity
associated with adjacent buildings shall be encouraged.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 81

 • Surface parking lots shall be limited for all developments
through the use of:
» On-street parking.
» Parking garages.
» Municipal parking lots.
» Shared parking.
» Ride-share spaces.
• Surface parking lots shall be screened from street view and
adjacent residential uses through the use of landscaping or
architectural features.
• Lots developed as public or private parking lots shall not be
subject to FAR requirements.

Downtown Infrastructure Development Standards

• New, and re-constructed, streets shall be designed to
accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, automobiles, transit,
autonomous vehicles, and ride-share services, including the
following improvements where possible:
» Sidewalks with decorative pavement designs.
» Angled or parallel parking.
» Street trees and planters.
» Barrier-free design elements.
» Decorative or alternative street paving or ribbons.
» Pedestrian improvements, including benches, trash
receptacles, art, etc.
» Narrow vehicles lanes on streets not classified as truck
routes.
» Dedicated parking spaces for curbside activities, including
ride-share and curbside pick-up from local businesses.
• Shared streets that can accommodate non-separated multiple
modes of transportation (i.e. vehicles and bicycles) are
encouraged in areas where plans identify them as suitable.
• Alleys shall be maintained to a high standard of cleanliness and
repair.
• Alleys shall be designed to create urban open spaces
in appropriate settings, particularly in partnership with
neighboring businesses.
• Municipal parking lots shall be constructed by the City as
downtown development matures.
• Site drainage requirements shall acknowledge the urban
nature and site constraints of downtown development.
• On-site drainage retention shall use underground and/or small
low-impact development designs. Large retention ponds are
discouraged except on large properties.
• In conjunction with new development utilities should be
underground unless located in alleys.

82 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Residential Specific Development Standards
Site Design Standards
• Single-family, two-family, and three-family developments shall
have maximum gross density of 10 du/ac.
• New single-family detached home developments, both infill and
greenfield, should be adjacent to existing single-family detached
homes.
• Innovative multi-family projects are highly encouraged.
• Encourage the adaptation of existing single-family and two-family
structures into commercial uses or “live-work” units blending
commercial and residential uses.
• Any new residential development providing roadways should
continue the city street grid and provide multiple points of
pedestrian and vehicle connectivity to the development.
• Open spaces on residential sites is encouraged, with particular
emphasis on including:
» Gardens and courtyards adjacent to city sidewalks and
streets that reflect those found on many traditional Casa
Grande properties.
» Outdoor common spaces on the interior of the development.
• Multi-family buildings shall be placed as close to the public
sidewalk as possible.
• Site landscaping will reflect the urban nature and site constraints
of downtown development.
Building Design Standards
• Residential developments shall have a maximum Floor Area
Ratio of 3.0. Indoor parking areas shall not be included in FAR
calculations.
• Ground floor elevations adjacent to street frontage shall include
patios, porches, or other features that encourage outside use.
• Upper floor elevations adjacent to street frontages shall provide
windows, patios, doors, balconies, awnings, articulated facades or
other similar architectural features in a manner that provides visual
interest to building elevations from the street.
• Relationship between building and larger streetscape should be
emphasized in all building proposals in downtown area.
• Public art and artistic expressions are encouraged on residential
structures.

Non-Residential Specific Development Standards

Site Design Standards
• The provision of wide sidewalks and additional open space that
can accommodate pedestrian use and outside activity appropriate
for downtown areas (i.e. outdoor dining, seating areas, lawn
games, etc.) shall be encouraged.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 83

 • Outdoor common areas on the interior of the development are
encouraged.
• Site landscaping shall reflect the urban nature and site
constraints of downtown development.
Building Design Standards
• Non-residential developments shall have a maximum Floor
Area Ratio of 3.0. Indoor parking areas shall not be included in
FAR calculations.
• Commercial ground floor elevations adjacent to street frontage
shall be a minimum of 65% windows, patios, doors or other
similar architectural features.
• Arcades, awnings, and other shaded pedestrian areas should
be considered in the design of front and side elevations, where
appropriate or feasible.
• On commercial and mixed-use buildings in particular,
entrances should be clearly visible and emphasized in the
design of front elevations.
• Upper floor elevations adjacent to street frontages shall provide
windows, patios, doors, balconies, awnings, articulating facades
or other similar architectural features in a manner that provides
visual interest to building elevations and streetscapes.
• Sites should utilize public art and artistic expression in highly
visible areas, particularly on large wall areas.

Which General Plan goals align with our vision

for Downtown land use?
GOAL D-1: Develop a strategy for downtown development,
redevelopment, and adaptive re-use.
Action Step D-1.1: Develop an Area Specific Plan for
the Downtown Core that sets forth a more detailed
implementation strategy for this downtown vision.
Action Step D-1.2: Develop a development process that
encourages collaboration between city staff and potential
developers of downtown brownfield and greenfield sites.
Action Step D-1.3: Develop unique strategies for a “New
Downtown” in greenfield and redevelopment areas south of the
Union Pacific Railroad and for the “Historic Downtown” in the
core of the downtown area north of the Union Pacific Railroad.
Action Step D-1.4: Create new stormwater management
regulations for the downtown area that allow for the use
of unique stormwater management techniques that can
be effectively applied to sites with limited ability to retain
stormwater on-site.

84 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step D-1.5: Create a set of design guidelines that address
street space and public sidewalk usage by private businesses to
increase visibility and street life, particularly for outdoor dining,
curbside services, or outdoor retail as appropriate.
Action Step D-1.6: Revise the parking standards for the downtown
core area to recognize the unique nature of the parking demand
of downtown land uses and multi-modal nature of downtown
customers and residents; and which addresses the use of shared
parking, on-street parking, transit service, autonomous vehicle
drop-off/pick-up areas, and public parking lots.
Action Step D-1.7: Modify the landscape code to create a special
set of landscape regulations for the downtown that recognizes
the urban nature and desired character of the area.
Action Step D-1.8: Develop public-private partnerships to facilitate
the implementation of the downtown vision of creating an urban
environment and improving downtown infrastructure.
Action Step D-1.9: Consider the creation and adoption of a form-
based code, or a similar land use regulation, that will act to
implement the design characteristics of this land use category.
Action Step D-1.10: Develop a strategy for the removal of slum and
blight conditions in the downtown area.
Action Step D-1.11: Assign responsibility for downtown
development to a city staff position who reports directly to the
City Manager or Deputy City Manager.
Action Step D-1.12: Dedicate funding sources such as CDBG; CIP
and/or Special District to assist in downtown redevelopment
efforts.
Action Step D-1.13: Develop an enhanced public safety plan for
downtown patrons, visitors, residents and businesses.
Action Step D-1.14: Encourage the conversion of vacant, and/or
under utilized, sites to more intensive urban uses.
GOAL D-2: Prioritize mixed-use development in and
surrounding downtown areas.
Action Step D-2.1: Revise the zoning regulations to allow the mix
of uses and urban form desired for the downtown core area.
Action Step D-2.2: Modify regulations to create incentives to
promote the adaptive reuse of existing single-family homes into
small mixed-use, office or retail uses.
Action Step D-2.3: Communicate regularly with stakeholders to
identify barriers to downtown development and plan methods for
removing obstacles to development.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 85

 GOAL D-3: Preserve and adapt existing structures and
historic assets to tie Casa Grande’s downtown to its rich
agricultural and railroad roots.
Action Step D-3.1: Develop programs that encourage façade
and building improvements of historic structures.
Action Step D-3.2: Continue to aggressively pursue
“placemaking” efforts that highlight and improve existing
assets.
Action Step D-3.3: Encourage the development of land uses on
the City owned property adjacent to the Shonessy House and
the Casa Grande Hotel that complement the historic nature of
those structures.
GOAL D-4: Design “people first” streets by planning for
safe and efficient pedestrian and bicycle travel, setting
downtown apart as a unique part of the community.
Action Step D-4.1: Emphasize “complete streets” throughout the
downtown area, particularly along Florence and 2nd Streets.
Emphasize pedestrian and bicycle movement that is safe from
conflicts with vehicles.
Action Step D-4.2: Adjust standards for minor arterials,
collectors, and local roads to promote equal opportunities for
travel by different modes of transportation by amending road
design standards for the downtown core area.
Action Step D-4.3: Develop specific downtown street design
standards to encourage pedestrian friendly and urban scale
streets.
Action Step D-4.4: Develop decorative and/or alternative street
paving designs and plans. Streets should utilize alternative
materials. Safe crosswalks and pedestrian areas should be a
point of emphasis.

86 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

GOAL D-5: Focus on reintroducing housing and
residential opportunities to downtown Casa Grande to
take advantage of demand for desirable urban living.
Action Step D-5.1: Promote homeownership opportunities in an
urban setting.
Action Step D-5.2: Document existing housing types and look
for opportunities for implementing new housing products.
Action Step D-5.3: Be proactive with infill development in
neighborhoods near downtown to insert new residential units
into existing neighborhoods in an appropriate manner.
Action Step D-5.4: Use recommendations from Life on Main
Master Plan to encourage high density housing and/or mixed-
use developments on City owned sites.
GOAL D-6: Encourage investment in public open spaces
to accommodate new development that can cater to
diverse demographics, particularly families and older
residents.
Action Step D-6.1: Invest in expanding public parks, or re-
programming existing parks, to increase usefulness for new
and existing residents.
Action Step D-6.2: Inventory potential opportunities for “pocket
parks” and other small-scale open spaces in the downtown
area.
Action Step D-6.3: Encourage the use of gardens, courtyards
and plazas in new developments to complement existing
historical structures in Casa Grande and foster social interaction
and community health.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 87

 Community Corridor Land Use

Building centers of urban activity across Casa

Grande.
The Community Corridor land use category is designed to
encourage increased activity along select arterial corridors and
key intersections throughout the City. These areas are designed
to function as local destinations, providing a range of uses easily
accessed from nearby City neighborhoods.

Providing accessible activity centers.

Community Corridor areas are intended to contain diverse activity
centers and should feature a range of building sizes and land
uses. The uses within Community Corridor areas will utilize higher
density residential development to create vibrant and healthy
economic areas dispersed along the City’s critical thoroughfares.
Infill development, particularly in and around aging retail areas,
is essential to the success of the Community Corridor vision of
improving the appearance and economic vitality of the City’s
corridors.

What can I build in Community Corridor areas?

Appropriate Land Uses Appropriate Base Zoning Categories

• Residential (medium to high density) • B-2 – General Business Zone
• Commercial • B-3 – Central Business Zone
• Mixed Residential/Commercial • R-2 – Multi-Family Residential Zone
• Offices (Medium Density)
• Medical Campus/Hospital • R-3 – Multi-Family Residential Zone (High
• Professional Services Density)
• Restaurants/Bars/Taverns • R-4 – Mobile Home Residential Zone
• Entertainment • CO – Commercial Office Zone
• Hospitality • PAD – Planned Area Development
• Educational facilities
• Public facilities
• Religious institutions

88 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

What standards guide Community Corridor
development?
General Development Standards
• Buildings should embrace the street and public sidewalk,
located as close to the front setback as appropriate and placing
parking and other secondary uses behind or on the sides of
buildings.
• Infill development opportunities shall be encouraged.
• All Community Corridor areas will be located near arterial or
collector streets.
• Arterial and collector streets in Community Corridor areas
should be designed to be pedestrian-oriented, with widened
sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, traffic calming devices, street
trees, and flora.
• Pedestrian and bicyclist access and mobility shall be strong
design considerations.
• Parking and vehicle entrances should not be placed between
building entrances and streets.
• Parking lots should provide opportunities for pedestrians to
move safely from vehicles to buildings, including sidewalks and
highly visible crosswalks.
• Low impact stormwater management facilities (bio-swales,
rain gardens, etc.) are encouraged to manage stormwater in a
manner that has positive environmental impacts and reduces
impact on City stormwater systems.

Residential Specific Development Standards

Site Design Standards
• Residential developments shall have a maximum gross density
of 25 du/ac.
• All developments adjacent to or across a local or collector street
from single-family residential uses shall be designed to be
compatible with the adjacent single-family uses and to provide
suitable transition to the more urban Community Corridor uses.
• Developments shall provide direct pedestrian access for
residents to public sidewalks.
Building Design Standards
• Elevations adjacent to street frontages shall provide windows,
patios, doors, balconies, awnings, articulating facades, or other
similar architectural features in a manner that provides visual
interest to the elevations and streetscape.
• Residential developments should have a strong relationship
with adjacent streets and sidewalks.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 89

 Non-Residential Specific Development Standards
Site Design Standards
• Encourage a variety of uses on a single site, both horizontally
(uses located near one another) and vertically (uses on different
floors).
• Uses should be placed adjacent to arterial and collector
roadways to promote visibility for businesses and to encourage
a transition to surrounding residential uses.
• Encourage shared parking facilities between buildings and
uses.
• Encourage pedestrian, bicyclist, and vehicle access into and
between uses and parcels to decrease congestion and promote
synergy.
• Provide pedestrian and bicycle access to surrounding
neighborhoods and residential uses.
• Encourage use of appropriate open space, including plazas,
courtyards, and other pedestrian areas.
• Encourage open space to be visible from City streets.
Building Design Standards
• Non-residential developments shall have a maximum Floor
Area Ratio (FAR) of 0.5. Indoor parking areas shall not be
included in FAR calculations.
• Elevations adjacent to street frontages shall provide windows,
patios, doors, balconies, awnings, articulating facades or other
similar architectural features in a manner that provides visual
interest to the elevations and streetscape.
• Commercial and mixed-use developments should have a
strong relationship with adjacent streets and sidewalks.
• Direct pedestrian access should be provided to building
entrances from streets and public open spaces.
• Pedestrian access and mobility shall be strong design
considerations.

90 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Which General Plan goals align with our vision
for Community Corridor land use?
GOAL CC-1: Transition Community Corridor areas
to become more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly
environments, particularly along major street corridors.
Action Step CC-1.1: Take action to promote site design
featuring reduced front setbacks and building placement that
approaches and embraces public sidewalks and streets.
Action Step CC-1.2: Encourage connections between buildings,
public sidewalks and streets, parking areas, and surrounding
land uses where appropriate.
Action Step CC-1.3: Promote site design guidelines that ensure
pedestrian safety.
GOAL CC-2: Promote diverse business, retail, and office
uses in Community Corridor areas.
Action Step CC-2.1: Encourage mixed-use, commercial, and
retail structures to create a higher density of uses along major
corridors.
Action Step CC-2.2: Create incentives to encourage adaptive re-
use of existing vacant or underutilized structures.
Action Step CC-2.3: Encourage alternative architecture for large
retailers and traditional “big box” establishments that fits the
urban scale and design concepts for the Community Corridor
area.
Action Step CC-2.4: Promote opportunities for expanding office
development.
GOAL CC-3: Promote Casa Grande’s identity by creating
gateways at the major entryways into the City.
Action Step CC-3.1: Consider the creation and adoption of a
form-based code, or a similar land use regulation, that will
act to implement the design characteristics of this land use
category.
Action Step CC-3.2: Create development opportunities for larger
retailers and office developments at key City entry points.
Action Step CC-3.3: Encourage architecture with a distinctive
theme compatible with a rural desert community.
Action Step CC-3.4: Use public art to highlight community
culture to those arriving to the community.
Action Step CC-3.5: Connect gateways to trails as designated in
the Regional Trails Master Plan.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 91

 GOAL CC-4: Promote high-density residential uses along
urban corridors and near major commercial centers.
Action Step CC-4.1: Encourage higher density residential
developments on infill sites and along key corridors.
Action Step CC-4.2: Allow manufactured home communities
to be constructed with appropriate site design features,
including easy pedestrian access to and from development and
connectivity with other uses.
Action Step CC-4.3: Encourage residential site design to engage
the public street, including pedestrian connections, buildings
placed close to sidewalks, and building elevations facing public
streets that include appropriate articulation (balconies, wide
windows, etc.) and/or design elements.
Action Step CC-4.4: Use multi-family housing products to meet
housing demand while encouraging the conservation of water
resources in Casa Grande.

92 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Commerce and Business Land Use

Fostering competitive locations to do business in

Casa Grande.
The Commerce and Business category ensures that Casa Grande
can offer a competitive market for office, retail, and commercial
developments. The guidelines in this category encourage high-
quality site design for these uses. Commerce and Business areas are
designed to promote uses that can best benefit from Casa Grande’s
strategic location at the intersection of major interstates with high
visibility to traffic between Phoenix, Tucson, and California.
Properties designated as Commerce and Business are located
along interstates, parkways, and specific areas along major arterial
roadways where auto-oriented uses are dominant. This category is
designed to promote site development which encourages visibility
from major roadways and surrounding areas. Steps will be taken to
distribute Commerce and Business areas in a manner that creates
a variety of unique development opportunities along different
corridors. The Commerce and Business category represents
a strategic effort to place auto-oriented uses in appropriate
environments, ensuring that the location of office, commercial,
light industrial and retail uses complements the community’s
urban design goals.
The development guidelines set forth for the Commerce and
Business category are intended to address some of the existing
undesirable characteristics of commercial, retail and office centers
that should be avoided with future development, including a
lack of connectivity between sites and poor traffic and circulation
management. New emphasis has been placed on providing
for pedestrian movement between sites and allowing for easy
access between buildings and the public realm. Because these
areas are essential for providing employment opportunities, sites
should be designed to encourage access by alternate modes of
transportation, particularly transit and carpool programs. The
category will represent planning efforts to produce commercial
centers that can provide opportunities for long-term growth and
expansion.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 93

 Creating highly visible and dynamic
employment centers.
The Commerce and Business category will produce campus-style
developments providing retail, commercial and office uses for Casa
Grande. It is anticipated that most of the land within this category
will continue to consist of larger-lot commercial developments
and institutions. Developments in a Commerce and Business area
should be continuous, promoting movement between buildings
and creating cohesive, multi-use activity centers. This category has
been redesigned in the 2030 General Plan to accommodate a wider
array of complementary uses in areas traditionally set aside for
commercial development.

What can I build in Commerce and Business areas?

Appropriate Land Uses Appropriate Base Zoning Categories

• Multi-family Residential • R-3 – Multi-Family Residential Zone
• Commercial • B-2 – General Business Zone
• Mixed Residential/Commercial • B-4 – Community Service Zone
• Offices • I-1 – Garden and Light Industrial Zone
• Medical Campus/Hospital • PAD – Planned Area Development
• Professional Services • CO – Commercial Office Zone
• Restaurants/Bars/Taverns
• Entertainment
• Hospitality
• Educational facilities
• Religious institutions
• Public facilities
• Business Park
• Light Manufacturing
• Warehousing/Distribution

What standards guide Commerce and Business

development?
General Development Standards
• Developments should be designed to accommodate regional
traffic, particularly retail, commercial, office, and light industrial
developments.
• Traditional “big box” developments and other large commercial
centers are encouraged to feature architectural design concepts
that act to mitigate common external impacts of “big box”
development while promoting commercial development to
serve regional and local needs.

94 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 • Light industrial and office uses should be highly encouraged
along freeway corridors, particularly on sites not immediately
adjacent to highway interchanges.
• Retail and commercial development should complement other
surrounding uses.
• Non-residential developments are subject to a maximum Floor
Area Ratio (FAR) of 0.35. Indoor parking spaces shall not be
included in FAR calculations.
• Safe and efficient pedestrian movement on sites should be
emphasized for all developments.
• Maximum 12% of land area within a ½ mile radius may be
devoted to residential land uses (including mixed-use with
residential).

Residential Specific Development Standards

Site Design Standards
• Multi-family residential developments shall be built on campus-
style development sites with a gross density between 10-45
du/acre.
• All multi-family residential developments should be adjacent or
within ¼ mile of a Neighborhoods land use area.
• Building and site design shall achieve use to use compatibility
when adjacent to residential uses in the Neighborhoods land
use category.
• Multi-family buildings should be sited with appropriate
infrastructure and open space connecting each building in a
campus-style design.
• Multi-family residential developments should provide ample
connectivity between common areas, residential units, and the
public realm.
Building Design Standards
• Elevations adjacent to street frontages or residential uses shall
provide windows, patios, doors, balconies, awnings, articulating
facades or other similar architectural features in a manner that
provides visual interest to the elevations and streetscape.

Non-Residential Specific Development Standards

Site Design Standards
• New development shall be designed to minimize adverse
impact upon surrounding and existing land uses.
• Office, business park, and enclosed industrial uses shall be
located within a PAD that includes multiple buildings with
unified architectural and/or landscape elements.
• Developments shall have accessibility from arterial and
collector streets; adding traffic counts on local residential
streets should be avoided.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 95

 • Perimeter buildings should be used to draw uses closer to
the street and sidewalk, or the primary structure should be
designed to reduce distance between the street and building.
• Retail, commercial, and office developments should require a
minimum of 10% of the site’s gross site area to be dedicated as
open space.
• Where possible, retail, commercial, and office developments
should provide spaces that encourage an urban sense of place,
including plazas and pedestrian areas framed by buildings.
• Urban facilities should be provided along arterial and collector
roadways, including sidewalks, traffic crossings, and curb/
gutter service where applicable.
• Landscaping should integrate sites with surrounding desert
environment, particularly industrial uses.
Building Design Standards
• Maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is 0.35. Indoor parking areas
shall not be included in FAR calculations.
• Elevations adjacent to street frontages or residential uses shall
provide windows, patios, doors, awnings, articulated facades,
varied colors or other similar architectural features in a manner
that provides visual interest to the elevations and streetscape.

Which General Plan goals align with our vision

for Commerce and Business land use?
GOAL CB-1: Develop economically competitive regional
centers of commercial activity.
Action Step CB-1.1: Promote a wider range of uses than
traditional commercial areas, including blended commercial
and industrial sites, to prepare for changes in demand for retail
and other commercial uses.
Action Step CB-1.2: Promote a balance of uses within individual
commercial areas to create a more resilient local economy.
Action Step CB-1.3: Develop promotional strategies to market
Casa Grande as the regional center of commercial activity in
Pinal County.
Action Step CB-1.4: Support site design that includes
incremental growth strategies and considers opportunities
for redevelopment in the next generation of commercial
development, promoting long-term sustainable growth in Casa
Grande.

96 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

GOAL CB-2: Improve site design in commercial and
industrial locations, particularly those along higher-value
corridors.
Action Step CB-2.1: Promote architectural details and site
elevations that contribute to a unique sense of place and tie
into a desert community.
Action Step CB-2.2: Use PAD zoning to create unified design and
landscaping between sites.
Action Step CB-2.3: Update Casa Grande’s landscaping
standards to improve the appearance of large sites and to
integrate developments into the surrounding desert landscape.
Action Step CB-2.4: Encourage connectivity between sites for
both vehicular and non-vehicular transportation.
Action Step CB-2.5: Provide for safe pedestrian access to parking
areas using zoning and landscaping standards.
GOAL CB-3: Promote more sustainable development to
respond to environmental pressures in Casa Grande.
Action Step CB-3.1: Promote policies to minimize development
impacts on surrounding properties and land uses, including
buffering requirements between incompatible uses and
design features to mitigate congestion, noise, and negative
environmental impacts.
Action Step CB-3.2: Encourage sustainable design features on
commercial sites, including alternative pavements, low impact
stormwater management, or other site design decisions that
reduce the negative impacts of the site on the surrounding
environment.
Action Step CB-3.3: Promote landscaping standards that reduce
urban heat island effect in large parking lots.
Action Step CB-3.4: Consider policies to require electric vehicle
parking spaces and charging stations for larger developments.
Consider accompanying incentives and policies to encourage
implementing electric vehicle spaces and charging stations for
smaller developments.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 97

 GOAL CB-4: Create visibility without compromising
attractive streetscapes or community character.
Action Step CB-4.1: Site auto-oriented businesses to appropriate
locations along interstates and/or select arterial corridors.
Action Step CB-4.2: Complete an assessment of the interstate
and arterial corridors in Casa Grande that have adequate
utility and transportation infrastructure suitable to support
Commerce and Business type development.
Action Step CB-4.3: Take steps to encourage and incentivize
retail and destination uses at intersections and interchanges,
allowing office and light industrial uses to locate within
interstate and select arterial corridors.
Action Step CB-4.4: Revise signage standards to maintain
visibility from corridors while maintaining a high degree of
design quality and avoiding obstructions of scenic views.
Action Step CB-4.5: Promote unique retail, commercial, office,
and institutional campuses through collaboration during the
PAD application process.

98 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Manufacturing and Industry Land Use

Creating industry and employment areas to

form a healthy and viable Casa Grande.
The Manufacturing and Industry land use category is designed
to promote suitable areas for a variety of industrial and
manufacturing uses creating an economic engine for Casa Grande.
Situated in locations to take advantage of the regional
transportation network that includes Interstates 8 and 10, as well
as the Union Pacific Railroad, these areas are essential to creating
employment centers for the community.
The Manufacturing and Industry category shall be developed and
designed to emphasize compatibility with adjoining uses and
minimize any adverse impact on the surrounding areas of the
community.

What can I build in Manufacturing & Industry

areas?
Appropriate Land Uses Appropriate Base Zoning Categories
• Work/live vertically or horizontally • B-4 – Community Services Zone
integrated units • I-1 – Garden and Light Industrial Zone
• Commercial • I-2 – General Industrial Zone
• Offices • PAD – Planned Area Development
• Professional Services
• Restaurants/On-premise liquor
• Public facilities
• Business Park
• Light Manufacturing
• General Manufacturing
• Industrial
• Warehousing/Distribution

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 99

 What standards guide Manufacturing & Industry
development?
General Development Standards
• Within this land use category no more than 25% of the land
area, within a ½ mile radius, shall be used for commercial
purposes.
• New development shall be designed to minimize adverse
impact upon surrounding and existing land uses.
• Building and site design shall achieve use to use compatibility;
especially when adjacent to residential uses.
• Manufacturing and Industry areas shall provide vehicular
access to nearby interstate, expressways, arterials, or collector
streets.
• All streets and roadways shall be paved and fully serviced and
be constructed to City standards.
• Rail access shall be considered an integral component of this
category.
• Streets should provide pedestrian and/or bicycle facilities
where appropriate.
• Bicycle lanes and paths will be added along City streets where
appropriate or planned by the Regional Trails Master Plan of
2008.
Site Design Standards
• Direct pedestrian access should be provided from the building
to the sidewalk network.
• Parking lots shall be paved and constructed to meet City
standards.
• Shaded parking areas should be provided to the degree
feasible.
• Parking lots should provide opportunities for pedestrians to
move safely from vehicles to buildings, including sidewalks,
shade structures and access paths.
• Open space shall meet all required City standards.
• Open space will primarily be provided in the form of employee
recreation areas or plazas, as well as retention areas.
Building Design Standards
• Building design should strive to be architecturally interesting
and aesthetically pleasing.

100 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Which General Plan goals align with our vision
for Manufacturing and Industry land use?
GOAL MI-1: Provide and expand the Manufacturing and
Industry land use areas to accommodate a variety of
industries.
Action Step MI-1.1: Identify locations where it would be
beneficial to increase the Manufacturing and Industry areas
within the City.
Action Step MI-1.2: Promote the use of the City owned Airport
Industrial Park.
GOAL MI-2: Mitigate adverse impacts from industrial
users.
Action Step MI-2.1: Create effective buffers when industrial
development is adjacent to lower intensity residential, office, or
institutional land uses by using a variety of techniques (berms,
landscape, walls, etc.).
Action Step MI-2.2: Encourage new buildings’ use to use
compatibility by utilizing architectural details and aesthetics.
Action Step MI-2.3: Ensure all regulatory standards are being
met.
Action Step MI-2.4: Improve architectural and landscape design
along high-value roadways and corridors.
GOAL MI-3: Promote diversified types of industries and
uses.
Action Step MI-3.1: Modify the Zoning Use Table to expand the
uses that are appropriate for the B-4; I-1 and I-2 Zone Districts
but not currently allowed as Principal or Conditional Uses.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 101

 GOAL MI-4: Encourage and promote developers to utilize
infill sites.
Action Step MI-4.1: Identify appropriate infill areas where utilities
and infrastructure are available.
Action Step MI-4.2: Explore opportunities to expedite review
time frames for sites determined to be infill.
Action Step MI-4.3: Promote potential multi-user industrial park
development by offering potential incentives.
GOAL MI-5: Encourage appropriate and responsible
industrial development in appropriate locations.
Action Step MI-5.1: Evaluate and analyze prospective industrial
users to ensure natural resources and specifically water is being
appropriately allocated.
Action Step MI-5.2: Sites that have the ability to offer/utilize rail
should be encouraged to attract developments of the like.
Action Step MI-5.3: Encourage high traffic generating uses to be
located near planned and active transit corridors.
Action Step MI-5.4: Encourage development and infrastructure
investments that promote logical expansion of the industrial
area.
GOAL MI-6: Enhance Casa Grande’s competitive
advantage in regard to attracting manufacturing and
logistic companies by investing in public infrastructure.
Action Step MI-6.1: Provide funding for transportation and
wastewater infrastructure enhancements in designated areas
to create “shovel-ready” sites for commercial and industrial
development.

102 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Large Mixed-Use Land Use

Creating large, creative, campus-like

developments with integrated design.
This category is intended for large multi-purpose mixed-use
developments which support a mix of land uses that, because of
the clustering and supportive and/or complementary nature of the
uses, bolsters the local economy by creating opportunities for new
employment, commerce, recreation, entertainment, amusement,
cultural experiences and transportation.
This category provides an alternative to conventional residential,
commercial and industrial developments by promoting imaginative,
integrated and innovative planning.
This category is limited to areas that are under unified ownership
and/or master developer control at inception of at least 320 acres
of contiguous land and subject to a development agreement or
development right plan at the time of PAD zoning.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 103

What can I build in Large Mixed-Use areas?
Appropriate Land Uses Appropriate Base Zoning Categories
• Residential • PAD – Planned Area Development
• Commercial
• Industrial
• Work/live vertically or horizontally
integrated units
• Horizontal and Vertical Residential/
Commercial/Hospitality/Entertainment
Mixed-Use
• Offices
• Medical Campus/Hospital
• Professional Services
• Restaurants/on-premise liquor
• Entertainment facilities including:
motorsports, stadium, fairgrounds, etc.
• Hospitality
• Educational facilities
• Religious institutions
• Public facilities
• Transportation facilities; including airport,
heliport and droneport.

What standards guide Large Mixed-Use

development?
General Development Standards
• Zoning shall be PAD.
• Minimum project area shall be 320 contiguous acres.
• No single land use shall exceed 70% of the LMU development
acreage; except residential and industrial uses which shall not
exceed 50%.
• Residential development shall be restricted as follows:
» High density residential:
» Gross density not to exceed 40 du/ac.
» Maximum utilization of 20% of allotted residential land
use area.
» Medium density residential:
» Gross density not to exceed 12 du/ac.
» Maximum utilization of 30% of allotted residential land
use area.
» Low density residential:
» Gross density not to exceed 6 du/ac.
• New development shall be designed to minimize adverse
impact upon surrounding and existing land uses.

104 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 • Developments shall include common design elements or
theming.
• All streets and roadways shall be constructed to City standards,
paved and fully serviced.
• Pedestrian access should be encouraged to be provided
throughout and between adjacent uses.
• Buildings and site design shall have a strong and integrated
relationship with adjacent streets and sidewalks.
• Bicycle lanes and paths will be added along City streets where
appropriate or planned by the Regional Trails Master Plan of 2008.
Site Design Standards
• Maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for non-residential structures is
1.5.
• Utilities should be provided underground.
• Entrances shall provide direct pedestrian access from the building
to the sidewalk network. Pedestrian access should be encouraged
to be provided throughout and between adjacent uses.
• Parking lots shall be paved and constructed to meet City
standards.
• Parking or drive aisles separating buildings from streetscape
landscaping should be limited.
• Parking lots should provide opportunities for pedestrians to move
safely from vehicles to buildings, including sidewalks and access
paths.
Building Design Standards
• Architecture should generally have a building forward
orientation.
• Developments shall utilize a variety of building form and heights.
• Developments shall include common architectural design
elements.

Which General Plan goals align with our vision for

Large Mixed-Use areas?
GOAL LM-1: Create large regional developments with a
cohesive, aesthetically pleasing design.
Action Step LM-1.1: Encourage creative and dynamic design that
will create a sense of place.
Action Step LM-1.2: Site design should be integrated throughout
to create a campus-like environment.
Action Step LM-1.3: Promote variations in form and height while
utilizing common design features.
Action Step LM-1.4: Require integrated and coordinated signage
throughout the project.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 105

 Action Step LM-1.5: Create effective buffers between
incompatible uses or unsightly areas.
GOAL LM-2: Promote diverse residential, business, retail,
and office uses.
Action Step LM-2.1: Promote a healthy balance of uses between
residential, commercial, service and others.
Action Step LM-2.2: Encourage “small-scale urbanism,” to create a
higher density of uses and promote a lower threshold for local
business development along major corridors.
Action Step LM-2.3: Encourage alternative site designs and
building treatments for large retailers and traditional “big box”
establishments.
Action Step LM-2.4: Promote opportunities for expanding office
development, which accounts for one-third of commercial
demand in Casa Grande.
GOAL LM-3: Encourage pedestrian friendly, walkable
developments.
Action Step LM-3.1: Encourage pedestrian connectivity
throughout the developments.
Action Step LM-3.2: Provide trail and bike networks separate
from vehicular networks.
Action Step LM-3.3: Encourage vehicular and delivery areas in
locations not easily accessed by pedestrians.
Action Step LM-3.4: Require direct pedestrian access from
buildings to the sidewalk, paths, and pedestrian network.

106 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Aggregate Resources Land Use Addendum

HISTORY
Casa Grande has a rich mining history, extending back to the early
20th century, as miners took advantage of the area’s mineral and
ore deposits. Resource extraction and aggregate collection have
played a vital role in the development of Casa Grande as a regional
industrial and manufacturing hub. The city’s last operational
mining facility closed in 1997, but several aggregate resource
facilities continue to produce and export sand, gravel, stone,
and other materials in the Planning Area of Casa Grande. These
facilities continue to play a small but important part in the Casa
Grande economy. Just as Casa Grande has always provided unique
opportunities for prospecting from its earliest days, Casa Grande
will continue to grow in a manner that can promote and preserve
aggregate resource activities in areas where it is suitable and
profitable to do so. Casa Grande will strive to ensure that aggregate
resources can be extracted in a manner that is compatible with
existing and future surrounding land uses.

STATE REQUIREMENTS
In compliance with the ARS Section 9-461.05, this General
Plan document details several pieces of information regarding
mineral and aggregate resources, including:
• Existing, proposed, and inactive mines and mining
operations.
• Information to assist in locating existing mines.
• Geological resources within community boundaries.
In addition, policies are provided to guide the following:
• Preservation of currently identified aggregate resource
areas.
• Ensuring sufficient resources for future development.
• Avoiding incompatible land uses.

Chapter 3 | Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 107

 Where are Casa Grande’s aggregate areas?
Casa Grande is home to several areas where aggregate resources
are likely to be located. The city features three veins of aggregate
resources that follow wash boundaries in the community and
stretch from the northwest to the southeast through the largely
undeveloped portion of the city. In addition, the Casa Grande
Mountains also feature a small aggregate resource area. The map
provided shows locations of aggregate resource areas as well as
currently active and inactive resource facilities located near and
within these resource areas.
The closed Sacaton Unit mine is an open pit copper mining facility
located west of the urbanized area of Casa Grande. Several plans
have been produced to reopen the mine to commercial mining
activity, and the City will monitor interest in using the facility and
plan urban growth accordingly to ensure compatibility with new
mining activities.
GOAL AR-1: Diversify industrial land uses to include
aggregate and mining activities.
Action Step AR-1.1: Accommodate additional aggregate and
mining operations where such operations are compatible with
the existing and/or future land use pattern.
Action Step AR-1.2: Revise the Zoning Code to allow mining to
occur, as a Permitted or Conditional Use, in identified high value
aggregate resource areas.
GOAL AR-2: Promote post-mining reclamation practices
that allow mined sites to be redeveloped for desired long-
term land uses.
Action Step AR-2.1: Develop specific reclamation guidelines that
foster the redevelopment of sites to a post-mining beneficial
land use in accordance with their General Plan land use
category.
Action Step AR-2.2: Develop regulations that will minimize the
adverse impact that mines and aggregate operations are likely
to cause on surrounding land uses, including dust, noise, water
contamination and industrial safety hazards.

108 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.6: Aggregate
3:6 AGGREGATE RESOURCE AREASResource Areas

Aggregate Facilities

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Tweedy Rd
Pinal Ave
Anderson Rd

Russell Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd

Estrella Rd

Eleven Mile Corner Rd

Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd

Signal Peak Rd
Aggregate Operations

Gila River Active Facilities

Ak-Chin Indian Community
Indian
Community Inactive Facilities

Aggregate Areas

Woodruff Rd Woodruff Rd Boundaries

Planning Area Boundary
McCartney Rd McCartney Rd
Tribal Communities

Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd
Land Use Categories
Commerce and Business
Korsten Rd Korsten Rd
Community Corridor

Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln Downtown

Large Mixed-Use
Gila Bend Hwy Florence Blvd
Manufacturing/Industry

Neighborhoods
Peters Rd Earley Rd
Open Space

Selma Hwy Selma Hwy Rural

Cornman Rd
Other Features
Cornman Rd
Interstate

Major Road
Hanna Rd Hanna Rd
Minor Road
Version Date: 01/05/2021
Arica Rd Arica Rd
Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,
GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
Shedd Rd IGN, and the GIS User Community
Shedd Rd

Eleven Mile Corner Rd

Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Tohono O'odham
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy
Stanfield Rd

Henness Rd

Nation
Midway Rd
Murphy Rd

Tweedy Rd
Estrella Rd
Russell Rd

Trekell Rd

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

0 0.5 1 2 3
Miles

Chapter 3 | Element Land Use, Growth, & Annexation 109

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110 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
Economic Development

OVERVIEW
Casa Grande is located in Pinal County, Arizona,
mid-way between the Phoenix and Tucson
Metropolitan areas. Also, the Nogales Port of
Entry on the Mexico-US border is approximately
120 miles south of the City. Casa Grande benefits
from this prime location.
Casa Grande sits at the nexus of two key
Interstates. Interstate 8 (I-8) provides access
toward the west to San Diego, California and
bypasses the Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan
areas. Interstate 10 (I-10) provides access to Los
Figure 3:26 Accessibility to Regional Destinations
Angeles, California. While I-8 ends in Casa Grande
at its intersection with I-10, I-10 continues east
to provide regional connections to Tucson and
Mexico via Interstate 19 continuing east towards
El Paso, Texas. In addition to national and
international roadway transits, the UPRR main
line passes through the City to Los Angeles and
El Paso’s major ports and transfer points.
The current city boundary of Casa Grande
encompasses 110 square miles, but within 300
square miles of planning area. Of this planning
area only 25 square miles have been developed. 0
Urbanized Area

Lands are used primarily for manufacturing,

Miles

logistics, residential and commercial. As the

Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas continue
to grow, Casa Grande’s accessible location will
enhance. There are opportunities to encourage Figure 3:27 Urbanized Areas
development patterns competitive with those of
Phoenix and Tucson, in addition to offering the
“small town” lifestyle treasured by residents.

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Economic Development

| Element 111
 THE COMMERCIAL, SERVICE AND INDUSTRIAL CENTER
OF PINAL COUNTY.
Casa Grande has a significant amount of retail, office, restaurant,
hotel, and service establishments which serve the residents of
Pinal County, as well as the visitors and travelers on the I-10 and
I-8 interstates. Casa Grande’s strong industrial sector includes
manufacturers associated with the agricultural and food industry
along with the producers of durable goods which are exported
throughout the world. The manufacturing and industrial sector
also includes several firms that support the construction industry.
Two major distribution centers have located in Casa Grande due to
its location at the juncture of two interstates along with the UPRR.
The health care industry is represented by over 25 specialties, more
than 100 service providers, and almost two dozen health care
facilities including a regional hospital.
Dairy Processing Facility
TOTAL BUSINESSES BY TYPE

Figure 3:28 Total Businesses by Type

Source: Applied Geographic Solutions, Arizona Public Service (APS), Arizona Commerce Authority, 2020

The City of Casa Grande’s infrastructure, locational assets, and

other economical attributes support the expansion of retail and
industrial employment allowing it to function as the economic hub
of Pinal County.

112 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Given its location, infrastructure, and existing economic base, Casa
Grande’s strong fundamental characteristics ensure it continues
to be the export, commercial, industrial and employment center
of Pinal County. Export-based industries in the area include
manufacturing, logistics, and agricultural production related
businesses. With the continuing interest from manufacturing and
commercial companies to locate in Casa Grande, the City’s growth
will be self-sustaining and less dependent on the Phoenix and
Tucson metropolitan areas.

A COMMUNITY THAT SUPPORTS ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT AND DIVERSITY.
As the City moves forward, it can capitalize upon tremendous
resources. As infill, commercial, and residential densities increase,
mobility choices will be explored. As surrounding cities grow,
they will provide opportunities to attract new employees and
businesses to Casa Grande.
Casa Grande is the economic hub of Pinal County and has
tremendous economic assets to benefit businesses. The City’s
proximity to the Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas, its
location along two interstate highways, the main line of the
UPRR, and having three major airports within an hour provide
unparalleled connectivity to markets throughout Arizona, the
southwest, and Mexico. Casa Grande also has thousands of acres
of undeveloped, cost effective land and is served by a robust
infrastructure system. The City’s living and labor costs are much
lower than the Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas. Its
proximity to both areas provides easy access for a highly skilled
and educated workforce of more than one million. More than 30
colleges and universities are within a one-hour drive.
With these assets, the City is positioned to continue realizing
significant growth for many more decades, both in terms of
population and employment. However, in order to ensure
the City develops a sustainable and diversified economy it is
important it continues to follow and regularly update its Economic
Development Strategic Plan, while aligning with the General Plan.
The following Economic Development Element includes goals and
action steps to help achieve this alignment. It will enhance Casa
Grande’s economic development, prosperity, and improve the lives
of residents.
The health of any economy is directly tied to the health of the local
employment base. Unlike some other communities in the Greater
Phoenix economic region, Casa Grande has an opportunity to
significantly develop its own employment base and be somewhat
independent of public policy directives of other locations.
However, regional partnering is still an important component of Retail Shopping Area
any economic development plan.

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Economic Development

| Element 113
 VISION: COMMUNITY GROWTH SHOULD BE DRIVEN BY QUALITY JOBS
ASSOCIATED WITH INDUSTRIAL, CORPORATE OFFICE, DISTRIBUTION
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, FINANCIAL SERVICES, RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
AND OTHER SIMILAR DEVELOPMENTS.
Casa Grande accounts for 45% of County employment. The City has historically posted Pinal County’s
strongest jobs-to-population ratio. The City employment-to-population ratio is 0.4 or one job for every 2.5
residents. This exceeds the 0.122 ratio of Pinal County. Continuing to create good quality jobs should be
the basis for the future growth and development of Casa Grande.

EMPLOYMENT BY BUSINESS IN CASA GRANDE

Figure 3:29 Employment by Business in Casa Grande

Source: Arizona Commerce Authority, US Census Bureau American Community Survey 2018 (5-year estimates)

114 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

GOAL ED-1: To have a job-to-population ratio of .5 or higher
which results in at least one job for every two residents by
providing employment options for residents of the City and
the Pinal County region.
Action Step ED-1.1: Identify which existing businesses and
industries need to prosper and grow.
Action Step ED-1.2: Provide a solution-driven, result-oriented
service delivery model to enhance the retention and expansion of
Casa Grande’s existing employers.
Action Step ED-1.3: Reach out to minority owned businesses to
ensure they feel connected with and valued by Casa Grande.
Action Step ED-1.4: Support and promote the expansion of the
Banner Casa Grande Medical Center as the hub of regional
medical services in Pinal County.
Action Step ED-1.5: Set benchmarks for job growth and track
progress over time using The Arizona We Want progress meters
and/or other reliable source.
GOAL ED-2: Focus on attracting employers who create
higher paying jobs aligned with key industries.
Action Step ED-2.1: Identify businesses that fit into the City’s
key industries and suppliers, and then develop and employ
customized recruitment efforts to attract them.
Action Step ED-2.2: Develop a strategic marketing plan to target
Auto-manufacturing regions, suppliers, and employees.
GOAL ED-3: Establish policies for business development
incentives to offer to companies considering locating in
Casa Grande.
Action Step ED-3.1: Identify business development incentives
that have a net positive financial and/or social impact on
the community. Submit new incentives to Council for their
consideration and approval.
Action Step ED-3.2: Lobby State legislators to support legislation
promoting programs and policies that encourage businesses to
expand and locate in Arizona and enhance our state’s competitive
position in attracting and retaining high wage jobs.
Action Step ED-3.3: Evaluate the hiring of a full-time government
affairs professional to further strengthen relations with key state
and federal agencies and elected officials.

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Economic Development

| Element 115
 GOAL ED-4: To ensure that the City’s development review
process is the best in class for processing development
applications and permits.
Action Step ED-4.1: Evaluate the City’s development processing
schedules and procedures to identify opportunities to reduce
time and costs for review of projects.
Action Step ED-4.2: Review the City’s development processes
and procedures, to make code changes and adjustments as
necessary and ensure best practices are being utilized.
Action Step ED-4.3: Update existing policies, procedures, and
requirements and replace them with current best practices.
Action Step ED-4.4: Consider the economic development
consequences of implementing new development fee
schedules or new tax structures.
Action Step ED-4.5: Examine the competitiveness of any current
or proposed fees/taxes and how the fee/tax level may positively
or negatively affect economic development.
GOAL ED-5: Evaluate the Casa Grande Municipal Airport
to enhance its ability to attract more businesses.
Action Step ED-5.1: Develop and implement a Business Plan for
the Airport.
GOAL ED-6: Provide a workforce who meets the needs of
our existing and future employers.
Action Step ED-6.1: Collaborate with community stakeholders
to promote and support workforce development efforts that
address the needs of both current and future employers.
Action Step ED-6.2: Work with regional and state partners to
inventory, monitor, and reaffirm priorities for skill requirements
and workforce shortages.
Action Step ED-6.3: Develop implementation strategies to assist
Casa Grande and regional educational institutions deliver
training and education addressing short and long-term talent
needs for Casa Grande’s employers.
Action Step ED-6.4: Assist Casa Grande employers and
institutions in recruiting talent.
Action Step ED-6.5: Encourage Casa Grande employers to
institute internships, externships, and apprentice programs for
Casa Grande middle and high school youth.
Action Step ED-6.6: Gather demographic data from other
Pinal County communities which may also contribute to an
employment pool for newly locating businesses.
Action Step ED-6.7: Develop a Center of Excellence with a focus
in trades to meet workforce need in the construction industry.

116 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

GOAL ED-7: Identify current industries that have potential
for expanding into higher value-added operations.
Action Step ED-7.1: Create a task force to focus on the City’s
current industries (i.e. manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, etc.) to
identify if any expansion into higher value-operations is possible.
Action Step ED-7.2: Explore regional employment opportunities
in connection with regional transportation projects, including
railroad and airport.

VISION: CASA GRANDE IS AN EXPANDING REGIONAL CENTER FOR ECONOMIC

ACTIVITY.
Communities significantly rely on sales taxes to fund government operations. These government
expenditures are required to provide basic services and facilitate economic development. The extent that
Casa Grande residents spend locally, directly translates into the extent the City can provide services and
incentives for a strong economy.

GOAL ED-8: Enhance Casa Grande’s competitive advantage

in regards to attracting manufacturing and logistic
companies by investing in public infrastructure and
business climate.
Action Step ED-8.1: Provide funding for transportation and
wastewater infrastructure enhancements in designated areas
to create “shovel-ready” sites for commercial and industrial
development.
GOAL ED-9: Maintain the City’s position as the retail center
of Pinal County.
Action Step ED-9.1: Support the development of key commercial
retail cores and regional retail services serving all of Pinal County.
Action Step ED-9.2: Continue to work with the owners of shopping
centers and the Promenade to support their efforts to recruit new
retailers.
Action Step ED-9.3: Facilitate and promote the retention and
expansion of automotive sales centers in Casa Grande.
Action Step ED-9.4: Promote commerce and business growth
areas located along Interstate 10 (I-10) and Interstate 8 (I-8) as the
next cycle of development.

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Economic Development

| Element 117
 Action Step ED-9.5: Work with the owners of the under occupied
retail properties along Florence Blvd. to identify ways to
incorporate multi-use opportunities for their properties.
Action Step ED-9.6: Continue to support the Main Street
Casa Grande organization and revitalization/reinvestment
downtown.
GOAL ED-10: Improve Casa Grande’s internal and
external image.
Action Step ED-10.1: Work with a professional marketing firm to
develop a series of messages for residents and businesses.
Action Step ED-10.2: Develop City promotional presentation
materials that can be provided to a targeted list of opinion
leaders and decision-makers in important media venues and
positions of influence.
Action Step ED-10.3: Distribute the Economic Development
Department’s newsletter to school districts, civic organizations,
and community partners to keep them informed.
Action Step ED-10.4: Develop and publish special sections
in local, regional and state magazines about Casa Grande’s
livability and business location advantages.

118 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 VISION: A COMMUNITY WITH ACCESS TO EDUCATION THAT SUPPORTS ECONOMIC
GROWTH.
An educated workforce is a primary economic development tool. To be sustainable, Casa Grande will need
to educate its residents, and then provide jobs for those seeking to live within the community.

GOAL ED-11: Partner with high schools, community

colleges and universities to create training and education
programs necessary to support the employee needs of
high wage industries.
Action Step ED-11.1: Identify points-of-contact (POC) with
Central Arizona College (CAC) and educational institutions in
the Phoenix metropolitan area offering degrees/certifications
aligned with City’s key industries and work with the POCs
to engage their students and recent graduates about the
opportunities that are available in Casa Grande.
Action Step ED-11.2: Assist CAC with its Strategic Plan Goal
of increasing the number of four-year degree opportunities
offered in Pinal County.
Action Step ED-11.3: Increase collaborative efforts with CAC to
market four-year degree opportunities within the County.
Action Step ED-11.4: Facilitate/support efforts between the
school districts, Central Arizona College (CAC), and industry
to identify skills industry requires and incorporate them into
curriculum.

EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT IN CASA GRANDE

Figure 3:30 Educational Attainment in Casa Grande

Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS), 2018 5-year estimates

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Economic Development

| Element 119
 VISION: A REGIONAL LEADER IN ADVANCING GREEN INDUSTRY AND
SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY.
A green economy is a viable economic development opportunity, including businesses that provide
environmental goods and services, like alternative sources of energy and pollution prevention technology.
The objectives of sustainable communities and economic development are not mutually exclusive. This
city will encourage the location of sustainable green economies when such industries are considering their
future locations.

GOAL ED-12: Target industries that produce

environmentally friendly green economies such as
solar manufacturing, biomass, waste-energy, and other
renewable energy industries.
Action Step ED-12.1: Identify the specific needs of
environmentally friendly businesses, both in terms of labor and
of capital inputs, as well as incentives.
Action Step ED-12.2: Identify and implement sustainable and
efficient green initiatives for the City.
Action Step ED-12.3: Complete a comparative analysis of
municipalities leading in the development of green industries
and identify similarities that exist between Casa Grande and
these communities.
Action Step ED-12.4: Prepare a marketing strategy to target
green industries.

120 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
Cost of Development

OVERVIEW
The Cost of Development Element is designed to ensure that
new development pays its “fair share” of associated costs,
with appropriate exceptions when in the public interest. The
two primary tools used by Casa Grande to ensure that new
development pays its fair share of the costs of infrastructure
and City services needed to support it are impact fees and
development agreements. Casa Grande adopted its original impact
fee ordinance in 2000 which has been updated several times
City Park Construction since then, most recently with the creation of a new Infrastructure
Improvement Plan (IIP) in July of 2018 and associated impact fee
ordinance in January of 2019. The most current IIP and impact fee
rates are available on the City website.
New growth and development require an increase in various
City services and basic infrastructure to serve new residents,
employees, and visitors. The costs associated with providing these
services and infrastructure improvements should be funded based
upon the premise of development paying for itself.
There is no one correct level of service that a community must
provide. Certainly, standards exist. However, community policy
makers and residents must decide what level of service is
Infrastructure Construction
appropriate for Casa Grande.
For a community that must allocate a considerable amount
of resources to economic development, the issue of funding
community investment as an incentive also becomes important. In
some cases, the two considerations are complementary, while in
other cases, due to limited resources, the two are in conflict.
Growing cities often depend upon cooperation with the private
sector to provide some of the services and infrastructure desired
by the community. For instance, city development policies and
standards could require developers to set aside a portion of a
project for open space and recreation areas. In this manner, the
community is meeting at least a portion of its service standard for Road Construction
parks and open space, without an initial publicly funded capital
investment.

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| Element 121
 Prioritization of community funding strategies and capital
improvement programs are an important component of the
Growth Areas Element of the General Plan. By coordinating City
spending on infrastructure with its long-term economic goals, the
City can direct growth to those locations where the city will reap
the greatest benefit. These benefits may include increased job
growth, increased retail sales, or other long-term policy objectives.
The Growth Areas Element of the General Plan identifies those
locations where the City anticipates the greatest benefit will be
generated.

INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICE FUNDING

Casa Grande funds public infrastructure and services needed to
support both existing and new developments in a variety of ways,
including:
1. Development Impact Fees: These fees are imposed on
developers in conjunction with the issuance of building
permits to cover the anticipated additional costs that the City
will bear because of the development. While accepted by the
development community, Casa Grande will need to assure
that the fees are competitive with other communities to avoid
redirecting development elsewhere.
2. Property Taxes: These revenues are imposed annually on
both residential and commercial property and tend to be more
stable than other sources of revenue.
3. Sales Taxes: These are taxes imposed on sales activity that
occur within the City boundaries. These revenues can vary
considerably during the business cycle.
4. Construction Excise Sales Tax: This is a tax that is paid
on a portion of the material and labor costs associated with
each construction project. The City of Casa Grande typically
allocates the revenue generated by this tax, which can vary
significantly from year to year, to capital projects associated
with infrastructure enhancement.
5. Bed Taxes: This tax is imposed on the room revenues of
hotels and motels within the City. These revenues can also vary
considerably.
6. User Fees: These are fees directly linked to specific City
services such as sewer service, solid waste disposal, recreation,
etc.
7. Bonding: Whether general obligation bonds or revenue
bonds, this source of immediate capital allows for capital
projects to be built prior to the revenue being fully collected.
In these cases, community taxes and fees are simply used to
service the debt over a specific period of years.

122 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

8. Community Facilities Districts: These districts are typically
used by developers of large Planned Area Developments to
finance major public infrastructure (i.e., streets, sewers, etc.).
These costs are paid through the sale of bonds which are backed
by the assets of the land that is being developed and are not an
obligation of the City. These bonds are repaid over time through
the imposition of an additional tax levied on the property
contained within the District.
9. Improvement Districts: These districts are typically used
by cities to construct streets and utilities to support existing
underserved portions of the city versus new development.
Landowners within the boundaries of the district are assessed for
the improvements through annual assessments.
10. Certificates of Participation: These lease purchase
agreements provide an investor returns based on the lease
revenues. The transference of property is usually specified after
some period.
11. Public-Private Partnerships: Public-Private Partnerships
(PPP) constitute an important, but often overlooked technique
for leveraging the limited assets of a community. PPPs are often
used in downtown areas, where the city may have acquired land
over time, and desires a developer to redevelop the area. This
technique may be able to be used successfully to encourage
desired redevelopment of land and properties the City owns in
the Downtown Core Area.
12. Cost-Recovery: As an alternative to the City waiting for
arterial and collector streets to be improved by new adjacent
development the City would fund the construction of these street
improvements and then collect a fair-share contribution from
adjacent developments as they occur.
13. The Government Property Lease Excise Tax (GPLET)
provision of State law is also a tool that can be used for
redevelopment purposes in a PPP. Casa Grande has used
this tool in conjunction with a partnership with the Frito
Lay manufacturing facility to assist in creating new jobs and
investment.
14. Other Miscellaneous Revenue Streams: This includes
state revenue sharing as well as special taxing districts such as
the recently created Regional Transportation Authority with its
associated sales tax that will be dedicated to regionally important
transportation improvements.
CURRENT DEVELOPMENT FEES, COMMUNITY REVENUES,
AND LEVEL OF SERVICE
Development impact fees and construction excise sales tax are the
primary revenue source for financing the public infrastructure and
public service expansion that is needed to support new growth.

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| Element 123
 Casa Grande imposes impact fees for various infrastructure and
service categories to collect revenue from new development that
allows the city to construct new public infrastructure and expand
services to serve newly developing areas.
The specific current impact fee categories are as follows:
1. Police
2. Fire
3. Parks & Recreation
4. Transportation (Arterial streets; traffic signals and interstate
interchanges)
5. Wastewater (Treatment and Collection)
6. General Government
Casa Grande does not charge a water impact fee as the water
infrastructure is primarily owned, maintained, and operated
by Arizona Water Company, a private utility. Casa Grande does
not collect a stormwater impact fee due to the fact that all new
stormwater flows created as a result of development are required
to be retained in privately constructed and maintained retention
basins and therefore new development does not typically have
any impact upon existing public drainage facilities. However,
stormwater retention is difficult to achieve in conjunction with
development in the Downtown Core. Accordingly, consideration
should be given to creating a stormwater impact fee for those
developments that cannot retain their developed flows so that
the City can construct drainage facilities to handle the stormwater
from those types of development.
A city may adopt impact fees that have different amounts for
various districts or areas of the community. For instance, some
cities may have several impact fee areas, which each require
different levels of infrastructure based on the expense of providing
infrastructure such as new roads or utility systems. Casa Grande’s
wastewater collection impact fee is based upon that approach
as the city is separated into two areas (Zone A and B) each
with a differing wastewater impact fee due to the level of new
wastewater sewer mains that need to be constructed in each area
to accommodate new development.
To encourage more infill and redevelopment projects, some cities
do not charge impact fees, or may impose reduced fees, for new
developments within the built-up portions of the city. This provides
an incentive to developers to construct infill projects within
the areas that already have adequate infrastructure to support
said development. This approach makes better use of the city’s
infrastructure that is already in place and, in many cases, built to its
ultimate capacity. As one of the guiding principles of this General
Plan is to encourage infill in appropriate locations, Casa Grande
could consider revising their impact fees for these infill areas to
facilitate this desired development pattern.

124 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

VISION: GROWTH SHOULD PAY ITS FAIR SHARE OF THE NEW INFRASTRUCTURE
AND SERVICES NEEDED TO SUPPORT IT.
The policy of Casa Grande is that new growth and development should pay, either directly or indirectly, the
costs of providing the infrastructure, municipal facilities and services needed to support it and not place
additional costs and burdens upon the existing residents of the community.

GOAL CD-1: Maintain an annual comprehensive capital

improvement program for all City departments that
identifies capital improvements needed to serve new
developments and annexations.
Action Step CD-1.1: Review the infrastructure and service needs
created by new development annually as part of the City
Capital Improvement Program ranking and budget process.
Action Step CD-1.2: Use the City’s Capital Improvement Program
to direct growth to those areas of the City that will provide the
most long-term benefit.
Action Step CD-1.3: Establish levels of service benchmarks and
monitor residents’ quality of life as related to infrastructure,
including satisfaction with roads and bridges, through
application of The Arizona We Want Progress Meters.
GOAL CD-2: Maintain an impact fee system that ensures
that growth pays its fair share of cost while maintaining
the affordability and competitiveness of Casa Grande.
Action Step CD-2.1: Monitor the development impact fees
of other regional communities to ensure the Casa Grande
development impact fees remain competitive.
Action Step CD-2.2: At least every five years, reevaluate the
methodology of the infrastructure improvement plan and
associated impact fees using revised population projections,
level of service standards, construction costs, and land costs.
Action Step CD-2.3: Revise development regulations to provide
for off-sets or credits against impact fees for developers who
construct facilities that exceed the demand created by their
development.
Action Step CD-2.4: Evaluate the zone approach in assessing
impact fees as a method to encourage infill development.

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| Element 125
 GOAL CD-3: Evaluate the on-going cost implications of
new development on the City’s operations.
Action Step CD-3.1: Comprehensively evaluate the City’s
revenue base to ensure that demand from new development
does not overly burden the community’s on-going operations
and level of service.
Action Step CD-3.2: Re-evaluate Level of Service (LOS) for each
impact fee component to ensure that demands from new
developments are met.
GOAL CD-4: Identify alternative funding mechanisms
that may be used to pay for the capital impacts of new
development.
Action Step CD-4.1: Consider the use of Improvement Districts,
Revitalization Districts and Community Facilities Districts for
master planned communities that may be used to finance
infrastructure and other capital improvements.
GOAL CD-5: Direct growth to areas which provide for
the most sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective use of
infrastructure.
Action Step CD-5.1: Encourage new development in those areas
that have excess infrastructure capacity and appropriate levels
of service.
Action Step CD-5.2: Direct growth into the Phase 1 Growth Area.

126 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
Housing

OVERVIEW
In 2020, Elliott D. Pollack & Co. conducted a land use demand
analysis for Casa Grande, forecasting changes in land use patterns for
2020-2050. This analysis was based on Arizona Office of Economic
Opportunity (OEO) data that projects a City population increase
of almost 60,900 persons over the next 30 years. This would raise
the population from about 57,500 residents in 2020 to nearly
118,400 residents in 2050. According to Pollack & Co., at an average
household size of 2.9 persons, that would result in an increase of
about 21,000 households over the next 30 years. To accommodate
those households, the City would need to build nearly 22,600
housing units (assuming a 7 percent vacancy rate). Residential Construction

Units in Structure 2018 The Pollack & Co. analysis demonstrates that the
demand for housing in Casa Grande will grow
City of Casa Grande
significantly over the next few decades. As the City
Units in Structure Units % of Total grows to meet this demand, a focus on diversifying
1-unit, detached 14,186 64.4% the housing stock and providing quality housing
1-unit, attached 662 3.0% at a variety of price points will ensure that Casa
Grande offers housing choices for a range of
Duplex 84 0.4%
different home seekers.
3 or 4 units 604 2.7%
Figure 3:31 shows the range of housing types in
5 to 9 units 570 2.6% Casa Grande as of 2018. This distribution is similar
10 to 19 units 586 2.7% to the City’s stock in 2010, which consisted of 67
percent traditional single-family units (stick-built),
20 to 49 384 1.7%
15 percent manufactured/mobile/park home
50 or more 851 3.9% units, and 18 percent multi-family units. The City
Mobile home 3,920 17.8% forecasts that the housing mix will continue to
remain relatively the same over the next 30 years,
Boat, RV, van, etc. 166 0.8%
with 70 percent single-family units, 15 percent
Total Units 22,013 100.0% manufactured/mobile/park home units, and 15
percent multi-family units. Pollack & Co. notes that
5+ units in building 2,391 10.9% this mix will likely change further into the future,
as the number of single-family and multi-family
Source: U.S. Census 2018 5-Year Estimates units rises, and the number of mobile/park homes
Figure 3:31 Breakdown of Housing Units in Casa Grande by Structure decreases. They attribute this trend to the rising
Size. wage levels of employees in high tech industries.
Source: Elliott D. Pollack & Co.

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Housing

| Element 127
As the City continues to develop and diversify its
economic base, it is expected that the median
family income will also rise. This will result in
increasing access to quality, affordable housing.
In addition to increasing Casa Grande’s supply
of affordable housing, the City seeks to provide
aspirational housing choices to residents with
growing wages.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 64
Manufactured Home
percent of the housing units in Casa Grande were
owner-occupied as of 2018. The median value of
owner-occupied homes in the City was $142,500,
16 percent lower than Pinal County’s median
home value of $169,800. The City’s median rent
in 2018 was $944, while Pinal County’s median
rent was $1,037. In general, homes in Casa
Grande were more affordable than homes in the
Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas, and
similar in price to homes in other parts of Pinal
County. Park Model

Age of Housing Stock Figure 3:32 breaks down the age of the City’s
City of Casa Grande housing stock. As of 2018, there were a little over
Housing Units by Number % of 22,000 housing units in Casa Grande, and over
Year Built of Units Total half of those units were built in 2000 or later.
Built 2014 or later 167 0.8% Because so many of the City’s housing units
are relatively young, they should be in good
Built 2010 to 2013 645 2.9% condition and require little to no maintenance.
In order to maintain the quality and condition
Built 2000 to 2009 10,571 48.0%
of Casa Grande’s overall housing stock, the City
Built 1990 to 1999 3,503 15.9% will need to be proactive about preserving
and extending the life of these units. As the
Built 1980 to 1989 1,861 8.5% City’s housing stock ages, the need for housing
Built 1970 to 1979 2,558 11.6% rehabilitation and revitalization programs will
increase. Some of the City’s older neighborhoods
Built 1960 to 1969 1,193 5.4% are already in need of these revitalization efforts.
Built 1950 to 1959 1,105 5.0% Providing adequate, quality housing for current
and future residents will require addressing
Built 1940 to 1949 272 1.2% issues of substandard housing. Improving the
quality of these substandard units will improve
Built 1939 or earlier 138 0.6%
housing conditions for residents and benefit the
Total Housing Units 22,013 100.0% broader community.
Figure 3:32 Age of the Housing Stock in Casa Grande.
Source: U.S. Census American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-year Estimates

128 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Figure 3:33 demonstrates that the number of residential building
permits in Casa Grande has increased rapidly in the past few
years, with traditional single-family permit submissions doubling
between 2018 and 2019. Most of the City’s permitting activity in
the past 10 years has yielded single-family housing, with traditional
single-family homes accounting for over 67 percent of new
residential construction and manufactured homes accounting for
over 24 percent. Additionally, 128 mobile/park homes and 159
group home beds were also added in that time, increasing housing
Single Family Attached Condos access for retired persons and persons with special needs.

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PERMITS IN CITY OF CASA GRANDE- 2010-2020

Figure 3:33 Residential Building Permits in Casa Grande 2010-2020; Note: The 2020 (YTD) category shows permits through June 30, 2020.
Source: City of Casa Grande

Single Family Home Medium Density Housing High Density Housing

Multi-family homes currently account for about 11 percent of the City’s housing stock. Figure 3:33
shows that 119 multi-family units were added in the past 10 years, accounting for 4 percent of
residential permits in that timeframe. This limited supply of multi-family units could be a barrier to
people who cannot afford to purchase single-family homes or who are looking solely for rental units
and will be a key area for growth as the City diversifies its housing stock.

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Housing

| Element 129
 VISION: A COMMUNITY OF SUFFICIENT AND APPROPRIATE HOUSING MIX TO
MEET THE DIVERSE NEEDS OF RESIDENTS.
As the Casa Grande community grows and becomes increasingly diverse, it is important to ensure that
the City offers housing choices that accommodate the wide range of different lifestyle needs current and
future residents may have. Providing sufficient housing means intentionally striving to increase housing
options available to low-income, minority, special needs, and elderly populations; it also means removing
regulations and policies that may allow discriminatory housing practices against these groups. A diverse
housing mix must also consist of aspirational housing types that appeal to residents seeking more
expensive units. Offering housing at a variety of different price points allows residents to make the best
choices for their individual households. Housing density also factors into diversifying the City’s housing
stock. With projections indicating that 70 percent of the City’s housing stock will remain single-family
units, encouraging the development of varied multi-family apartments, townhomes, condos, and other
housing types provides necessary alternatives to single-family homes.

GOAL H-1: Provide a variety of housing choice for all

income levels, generations, and household demographics.
Action Step H-1.1: Establish a Citywide target of 15 percent of
all new dwelling units to be multi-family housing throughout
residential areas as a method of balancing housing choice
for young families, individuals, and retired persons. This
requirement may vary on a project-by-project basis.
Action Step H-1.2: Encourage the formation of public-private
ventures to develop housing for low and moderate-income
households using local, state, and federal programs.
Action Step H-1.3: Consider revising the zoning regulations to
allow the creation of accessory dwelling units, with appropriate
development standards to mitigate any adverse impact, in
specific residential zone districts.
Action Step H-1.4: Ensure that development regulations allow
for the creation of multi-generational housing products.
Action Step H-1.5: Through rezoning, innovative site planning
and design, implement the preferred growth strategy as
illustrated on the Land Use Map.
GOAL H-2: Encourage variety in neighborhood design and
development patterns.
Action Step H-2.1: Encourage a range of neighborhood
types, densities, and building design within Planned Area
Developments and throughout the City.
Action Step H-2.2: Modify the Zoning Code to allow for the
by-right development of single-family rental developments in
appropriate residential zone district(s).

130 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step H-2.3: Encourage the development of subdivisions with lower density,
and which incorporate rural and/or agricultural design elements, in the Rural land
use category.
GOAL H-3: Increase housing choice for residents with growing wages.
Action Step H-3.1: Encourage the provision of executive housing in various
locations throughout the community.
Action Step H-3.2: Ensure that adequate locations are provided for the
development of aspirational housing for those homebuyers seeking a move-up
product.
GOAL H-4: Provide areas that are transit and pedestrian friendly.
Action Step H-4.1: Encourage higher density residential developments along
planned transit corridors.
Action Step H-4.2: Ensure that all new residential developments include
appropriately sized and located sidewalks and pedestrian pathways.
GOAL H-5: Encourage higher density residential projects in areas
designated Downtown Core, Community Corridor, and Commerce &
Business land use categories.
Action Step H-5.1: Promote the use of vacant commercial land or expansive
parking lots for intensive residential uses where appropriate.
Action Step H-5.2: Promote housing densities in areas planned for multimodal
transportation.
Action Step H-5.3: Ensure that development regulations allow for higher density
residential and mixed-use developments that are walkable and bikeable in the
Downtown Core land use areas.
GOAL H-6: Promote use to use compatibility when approving new
developments adjacent to existing residential areas.
Action Step H-6.1: Modify development regulations to require physical separation
such as fences, berms, parks and open spaces, or landscape areas in order to
buffer residential areas from the potential adverse impacts of non-residential
uses and/or high traffic volume transportation facilities.
Action Step H-6.2: Promote design compatibility between residential
developments of different scale by encouraging the use of physical separation or
landscape areas to separate adjacent single and multi-story developments.

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| Element 131
 VISION: A COMMUNITY THAT PROMOTES FAIR ACCESS TO QUALITY HOUSING FOR
ALL RESIDENTS.
The City’s Housing Division completed a 2020 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice that
highlights some of the potential barriers Casa Grande homebuyers may face. The analysis focuses on
impediments that disproportionately impact low-income, minority, and special needs populations. The
City’s housing policies strive to address the challenges identified by the impediments analysis, protect
against housing discrimination, and increase housing access for current and future residents.
The variety and age of the City’s housing stock are two factors that impact housing affordability. Multi-
family, attached, and manufactured home units tend to be more affordable than traditional single-family
homes. Older homes may be more affordable, but they may also need rehabilitation. Encouraging the
construction of affordable multi-family and single-family housing units will provide housing choice
alternatives for the disabled, families with children, and other populations who cannot afford to purchase
single-family homes.

GOAL H-7: Seek resources to increase the City’s supply of

affordable housing.
Action Step H-7.1: Explore the use of federal and state housing
programs and funding to assist in the provision of affordable
housing.
Action Step H-7.2: Consider the sale of City-owned surplus land
to the private sector and/or non-profit organizations for the
development of workforce/attainable housing.
Action Step H-7.3: Support the development of high-quality,
rental housing projects that utilize federal rental housing
assistance programs and/or Low-Income Housing Tax Credits.
GOAL H-8: Strive to meet the housing needs of senior
citizens and other special needs populations by
encouraging different levels of residential care homes in
accessible locations, close to demanded facilities and
amenities.
Action Step H-8.1: Allow residential care homes, meeting the
housing needs of elderly persons and other special needs
population groups, in dispersed locations.
Action Step H-8.2: Encourage the development of housing
for special needs persons particularly in areas designated
Community Corridor on the Land Use Map where mass transit,
medical, and accessible support services are available.
Action Step H-8.3: Ensure that local zoning ordinances and
building codes address issues of concern for persons with
disabilities, group homes, congregate living, and community
care.

132 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step H-8.4: Monitor home affordability through the
application of The Arizona We Want Progress Meter that
measures the percentage of homes sold that are considered
affordable to the local median wage household.
GOAL H-9: Increase awareness, outreach, and education
for the City’s active fair housing program.
Action Step H-9.1: Conduct City-sponsored training sessions
and informational campaigns.
Action Step H-9.2: Update fair housing information regularly,
and make it available to the public.
Action Step H-9.3: Provide fair housing materials and
informational programs in Spanish.
GOAL H-10: Increase homeownership opportunities for
low-income residents.
Action Step H-10.1: Research strategies and best practices for
building attainable housing and strengthening neighborhood
revitalization efforts.
Action Step H-10.2: Seek funding and resources to establish a
homebuyer assistance program.
Action Step H-10.3: Place income-qualified families into housing
through direct or deferred loans.
Action Step H-10.4: Find funding assistance for residents who
have low credit but sufficient income to purchase or rent
housing.

VISION: A COMMUNITY THAT INVESTS IN NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION.

The City’s Housing Division has been successfully managing the City’s valuable neighborhood
revitalization efforts through the Owner Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Program. Funds are made
available in the form of low interest loans, interest free deferred payment loans, and grants to rehabilitate
owner occupied homes within the City limits. These programs ensure that upon completion of the
rehabilitation, the home will meet all applicable codes and energy efficiency standards. These standards
preserve the City’s affordable housing stock by extending the life of the units by 20 to 30 years. This
program is largely supported by State Housing Funds and Community Development Block Grant Funds.

GOAL H-11: Continue The City’s Efforts To Rehabilitate

Housing And Replace Substandard Housing.
Action Step H-11.1: Conduct an inventory and assessment
of all boarded-up/abandoned houses in the City, and focus
revitalization efforts on these units.
Action Step H-11.2: Prioritize substandard homes and homes in
need of repair in older neighborhoods for revitalization.

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Housing

| Element 133
 Action Step H-11.3: Acquire foreclosed housing units in older
neighborhoods and rehabilitate them to meet City codes.
Action Step H-11.4: Explore the potential to expand the City’s
housing rehabilitation program to rental units.
Action Step H-11.5: Establish targeted code enforcement
programs to maintain neighborhood quality.
Action Step H-11.6: Consider implementing voluntary
neighborhood cleanup programs.
GOAL H-12: Promote the construction of new residential
dwellings on vacant infill lots.
Action Step H-12.1: Evaluate revising the R-1 and R-2 zone
districts to allow manufactured homes that meet certain
design criteria that allow them to fit in with existing single
family housing stock, such as size, foundation design, roof
style, lot orientation, use of porches, carports, garages, etc. on a
Conditional Use basis.
Action Step H-12.2: Revise development regulations to promote
and incentivize infill of vacant residential lots.
GOAL H-13: Raise community awareness of programs
and laws that enable residents to resolve structural
deterioration and property maintenance issues.
Action Step H-13.1: Work with residents through outreach to
maintain quality and structural integrity of deteriorating homes
in older neighborhoods.
Action Step H-13.2: Establish a neighborhood revitalization
program that addresses crime, blight, housing condition,
substandard infrastructure, and other issues by targeted use of
City resources.

134 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
Parks, Recreation, Trails, & Open Space

OVERVIEW
The Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Trails Element outlines the provisions for recreational facilities,
open spaces, and trails within the City. This element is guided by the Casa Grande Regional Trail System
Master Plan, the Community Services Master Plan, and the Casa Grande Mountain Park Trail System Master
Plan.

The City anticipates most future parks will be created in conjunction with new
residential developments. These parks will be on a neighborhood scale generally less
than 10 acres in size and contain elements such as playgrounds, ramadas, volleyball,
basketball, picnic areas, and open grass areas for informal play.

Ramadas Picnic Areas Open Grass

Playgrounds Volleyball Basketball

Typically, communities provide services on multiple levels, such

as neighborhood, community, and regional parks. To date, this
has been the method that the City of Casa Grande has used to
provide parks to the community. Historically, the City has provided
and maintained all community and regional parks, as well as
neighborhood parks in older neighborhoods. The City has relied
on developers to build, and Homeowners Associations (HOAs) to
maintain, neighborhood parks in new single-family and multi-
family developments. However, the City does collect an impact
fee that can be used to provide additional neighborhood and
Community Recreation Center community parks that are needed as a result of new growth.

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| Element 135
 Private Development The City recently updated its inventory of parks
Quantities and recreational facilities to include private
Resources
Ramadas 61 resources. Neighborhood parks and facilities in
private developments are generally intended
Playgrounds 35 to serve the residents living there, but these
Half Basketball Courts 19 resources still fulfill residents’ recreational
Volleyball Courts 4 needs and supplement the City’s public-owned
Tennis Courts 15 recreation network. Documenting both public
and private parks and recreational facilities
Bocce Ball Courts 14 will allow the City to better forecast the future
Pickleball Courts 53 recreational needs of Casa Grande’s residents
Shuffleboard Courts 50 and increase access to recreational resources in
Horseshoe Pits 18 the areas where they are needed most.
Community Centers 12 Many of Casa Grande’s private developments
(Clubhouses) offer diverse recreational resources in addition
to elements such as open grass areas and paved
Water Features (Lakes, 9
pathways. These amenities appeal to a variety of
Fountains, etc.)
demographics and diversify the City’s stock of
Outdoor Pools 31 parks and recreational facilities. Figure 3:34 shows
Golf Courses 2 the inventory of private recreational resources
RC Car Tracks 1 compiled by City staff. Note that the list consists
Baseball Fields 1 almost entirely of resources visible through
aerial images and may not capture private
Bowling Alleys 1 developments’ indoor amenities.
Figure 3:34 Recreational Resources within Casa Grande’s Private Developments.
Source: City of Casa Grande

There are 25 public park facilities that are classified by their size and amenities within the Casa Grande
planning area. The classifications are:

Pocket Park: Pocket Parks are small parks typically under one
acre and generally consisting of play areas, shaded seating, and/
or picnic spaces. Mini-parks may be associated with storm water
retention or detention areas. These parks are intended to provide
convenient play areas for small children and informal gatherings
within walking distance to homes in the immediate area.
Pocket Park

Neighborhood Parks: Neighborhood Parks satisfy the

recreation needs for a service area of approximately half a mile
radius. The exact acreage requirements and facility equipment of
each future neighborhood park will be determined when specific
development proposals within a park service area are submitted
to the City. However, neighborhood parks will generally be less
than 10 acres and include recreational facilities acceptable to the
Neighborhood Park City Community Services Department, Planning and Development
Department, and Public Works Department.

136 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Community Parks: Community Parks serve the recreational
needs within a three mile radius and provide recreation facilities
as specified by the City of Casa Grande. The exact acreage
requirements and facility equipment for each community park
will be determined when specific development proposals within
its service area are submitted to the City. However, community
parks will generally be less than 40 acres and include recreational
Bicycling in Peart Park
facilities acceptable to the City Community Services Department,
Planning and Development Department, and Public Works
Department.

Regional Parks: Regional Parks are designed to accommodate

residents from a larger, regional service area. Regional parks are
typically 40 acres and larger and may include any combination of
amenities featured in other park classifications.

Ramadas in Regional Park

Linear Parks: Linear Parks provide linkages between other
parks, schools, residential areas, and commercial or employment
areas. Portions of linear parks may be used for improved
recreational facilities. However, the primary uses of linear parks are
recreational hiking, walking, biking, or other non-motorized travel.
Three Casa Grande regional parks function as undeveloped open
space and are primarily used for hiking and biking.
In 2005, the City of Casa Grande conducted a statistically valid
resident survey to determine issues, concerns, and preferences Villago Lake
related to community development. The survey found “walking
and biking trails” were the outdoor recreational facilities the
community most wanted. To meet this and other identified
community desires, the Casa Grande Regional Trails System Master
Plan and the Casa Grande Mountain Park Trail System Master Plan
have been approved as summarized below.

COMMUNITY SERVICES MASTER PLAN

In March 2007, the City of Casa Grande approved a Community
Services Master Plan. The Master Plan was developed through
completing an extensive needs assessment, community input
process, a citizen’s survey and a comprehensive evaluation of all
existing facilities and future land acquisition, park development,
open space, trails, operations maintenance, libraries and recreation
programming needs. This Plan is an additional guiding document to
the General Plan 2030.

Park Amenities --Splash Pad

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Parks, Recreation, Trails, & Open Space

| Element 137
CASA GRANDE REGIONAL TRAIL SYSTEM MASTER PLAN
In May 2008, the City approved the Casa Grande Regional Trail System Master Plan. The trail system
proposed will be a non-motorized, multi-use trail system. It will serve pedestrians, trail-runners,
bicyclists, and equestrians. To the extent possible, all trails in the proposed regional trail system will
accommodate multiple user types, such as equestrian, hiking and biking. This system will also serve as
a way to provide connection between public facilities, particularly recreation centers and parks.

APPROVED REGIONAL TRAIL SYSTEM

Community Trails: The Casa Grande Regional Trail System Master Plan consists of both Community
Trails and Neighborhood Trails. The proposed Community Trails will provide an overall framework for
the regional trail system. These trails will connect the various neighborhoods within the City, create
opportunities for non-motorized transportation, and provide access to public parks, community
buildings, and natural resource areas.
Community Trails include the following trail types:
• Linear Parks
• Community Trails
• Equestrian/Spur Trails
• Rural/Unpaved Trails
• Primitive Trails
• Enhanced Bicycle and Pedestrian Corridors
Neighborhood Trails: Neighborhood Trails will play an important role in the overall City of
Casa Grande trail system. These trails will be integral to all new residential subdivisions and other
developments.
Two types of Neighborhood Trails include:
• Primary Neighborhood Trails
• Secondary Neighborhood Trails

CASA GRANDE MOUNTAIN PARK TRAIL SYSTEM MASTER PLAN

In July 2008, the City also approved the Casa Grande Mountain Park Trail System Master Plan. The Casa
Grande Mountain Park Trails Master Plan represents the collaborative effort of local residents, public
and private landowners, City officials and staff to create a shared-use trail system for Casa Grande
Mountain Park. This plan was implemented beginning in 2010 and completed in 2013. Casa Grande
Mountain is now home to more than 17 miles of established and marked trails. At its highest point,
the mountain is 2,538 ft and provides unparalled views of the surrounding terrain. The trail system
provides a dynamic range of recreational experiences for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrian users.

EXISTING AND PROPOSED NATURAL RESOURCE TRAIL PARKS

Casa Grande Mountain Park and North Mountain Park are existing Natural Resource/Trail parks, are
both owned by the City of Casa Grande, and offer opportunities for trail related recreation. One other
piece of land, a 144-acre parcel immediately west of Ed Hooper Park, is owned by the City of Casa
Grande and could potentially be used for a natural resource trail park. It offers trail opportunities in a
more urban setting for hikers, bikers, and equestrian users on a smaller, flatter scale compared to the
mountain parks.

138 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.7:
3:7 CASA Casa
GRANDE Grande
MOUNTAIN TRAILS Mountain Trails City Trails
Peart Rd City Managed Trails
Chain Cholla Forest Trail
Connecting Loop Trail
Peart Road Trailhead
Connecting Trail #1

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Chapter 3 | Element Parks, Recreation, Trails, & Open Space 139

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140 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.8:
3:8 NORTH North
MOUNTAIN Mountain
PARK TRAILS Park Trails
City Managed Trails
North Mountain Trail

Trail Features
B
! Trailheads
Park Access Roads

Public Park Boundary

East Loop Trailhead

B
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West Loop Trailhead

B
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Version Date: 11/17/2020

Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,

GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,

Cox Rd
Fantail Trail IGN, and the GIS User Community
Hazeldine Rd

Calle Del Sastre

Paseo del Sol

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142 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.9:
3:9 PARKS Parks and
& RECREATION Recreation Uses - North
USES - NORTH Public Parks
Public Parks
1 - Ed Hooper Rodeo Park
2 - Rancho Grande Park
IMPALA
3 - Mountain View
and Santa Rosa Park
COUNTRYWALK
4 - Villago Community Park
5 - Villago Lake

Open Space Ownership

GILA BEND HWY Public

NE
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PINAL
CRA
0 0.25 0.5
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*Note: Villago Lake is located on private property

but is publicly accessible.

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Version Date: 01/05/2021

Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,

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144 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.10:
3:10 PARKS Parks USES
& RECREATION and- SOUTH
Recreation Uses - South Public Parks

BROWN

PUEBLO
RODEO
RODEO

N
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TREKELL
Public Parks

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2 - Burress Park

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4 - College Park
17

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LA 5 - Colony Park
CASA GRANDE IZO
6
M ISS ION
LAKES V ALLEY
AR 6 - Dave White Regional Golf Course
7 - Dave White Regional Park
8 - Eastland Park
7 9 - Elliot Park
10 - Gilbert Park
11 - Ivy Park
12 - Mosley Park

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18 - Sierra Ranch Park
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Chapter 3 | Element Parks, Recreation, Trails, & Open Space 145

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146 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.11:
3:11 TRAILS Trails
- CASA GRANDE- PLANNING
Casa Grande
AREA Planning Area Trails
Trail Typologies

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd

Estrella Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Overfield Rd
Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Weaver Rd

Toltec Rd
Pinal Ave
Murphy Rd

Anderson Rd

Russell Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd
Linear Park

Millrise Rd Millrise Rd

Trading Post Rd Waverly Dr

Val Vista Blvd Val Vista Blvd Primary Community Trail

Woodruff Rd Woodruff Rd

McCartney Rd McCartney Rd

Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd Rural / Unpaved Community Trail

Korsten Rd Korsten Rd

Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln

Gila Bend Hwy Florence Boulevard Secondary Community Trail

Peters Rd Earley Rd

Selma Hwy Selma Hwy

Cornman Rd Cornman Rd Enhanced Pedestrian Corridor

Hanna Rd Hanna Rd

Arica Rd Arica Rd

Shedd Rd Shedd Rd
Completed Proposed

²
Houser Rd Houser Rd

0 0.5 1 2 3
Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, Miles
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community

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148 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

VISION: A COMMUNITY WITH EXCEPTIONAL NATURAL ENVIRONMENTS AND
OPEN SPACE ACCESSIBLE TO ALL.
Quality parks, trails and facilities provide opportunities for accessible recreation and exercise which
are fundamental components of active, engaged and healthy communities. The opportunities provide
outdoor activities, programs and facilities, and trails which contribute to the quality of life for residents
and visitors. Investment in the City’s recreation network also allows for the conservation of existing
cultural, scenic and natural resources, view corridors, agricultural areas and wildlife habitats.
Good design is about creating a place that consistently functions well over time. A well designed place
should also be attractive, providing an inspirational and special place for people. Poorly designed places
may result in conflicts between different activities and users. When spaces lack character and identity,
people do not use them. A well-designed place has the following qualities:
• Sustainability
• Character and Distinctiveness
• Definition and Enclosure
• Connectivity and Accessibility
• Legibility
• Safety
• Adaptability and Robustness
• Inclusiveness
• Biodiversity

GOAL P-1: Provide high quality parks, trails and open

spaces located throughout Casa Grande.
Action Step P-1.1: Require safe and adequate trails and open
spaces to be provided as a part of all subdivisions and Master
Planned Communities.
Action Step P-1.2: Review all new development proposals for
compliance with the approved Community Services Master
Plan, the approved Casa Grande Regional Trail System Master
Plan, and applicable Zoning Code requirements.
Action Step P-1.3: Provide parks, trails and recreation facilities
to meet the standards adopted in the Community Services and
Regional Trails System Master Plans through the development
review process.
Action Step P-1.4: Use “Crime Prevention through Environmental
Design (CPTED)” principles to enhance public safety along the
trail system.
Action Step P-1.5: Review and update the Community Services
Master Plan and Regional Trails Master Plan to meet current and
future population needs.

Villago Lake

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Parks, Recreation, Trails, & Open Space

| Element 149
 Action Step P-1.6: Establish required Level of Service (LOS) to
be met by all developed parks using the list of acceptable
components in the Park Design Guidelines as presented in the
Community Services Master Plan.
Action Step P-1.7: Develop new parks based on the design
guidelines presented within the Community Services Master
Plan and Regional Trail System Master Plan.
Action Step P-1.8: In the event Homeowners Associations (HOA)
or other parks are turned over to the City for maintenance,
maintenance districts or similar entities shall be established.
Action Step P-1.9: Encourage the use of environmentally
friendly, low water usage features, and landscaping for both
City and non-city parks.
Action Step P-1.10: Work in partnership with developments and
other key stakeholders to identify and dedicate land for trail
corridors in accordance with the Casa Grande Regional Trails
Master Plan.
Action Step P-1.11: Work with the State Trust Land; Bureau
of Land Management; and Department of Defense to grant
formal approval to the existing social trails located on these
properties that link to the Casa Grande Mountain trail network.
GOAL P-2: Provide adequate access to recreational
Outdoor Activities and Hiking facilities and other public facilities.
Action Step P-2.1: Connect areas to schools, natural areas, and
other facilities by implementing the Casa Grande Regional
Trails Master Plan neighborhood trail system to link residential
and commercial areas and community facilities where feasible.
Action Step P-2.2: Any loss of parkland through governmental
action may be received in-kind.
Action Step P-2.3: Encourage new Planned Area Developments
(PADs) and subdivisions to provide Neighborhood Trails with
access points within a quarter mile of each new residence.
Action Step P-2.4: Apply the City’s standards for open space,
trails and parks to all new PADs.
Action Step P-2.5: Solidify and strengthen Intergovernmental
Agreements (IGAs) with schools for joint use of fields, gyms and
multipurpose spaces.
Action Step P-2.6: Expand programs to meet the needs of the
working public (evenings and weekends), the needs of stay at
home parents, seniors (daytime hours), as well as considering
additional before- and after-school activities through
partnerships.

150 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step P-2.7: Expand and improve accessibility, as per
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and deaf sensitivity
guidelines, to major recreational centers to encourage greater
participation.

VISION: A COMMUNITY WITH INTERCONNECTED OPEN SPACE.

A network of public open spaces will play a major role in combating the effects of climate change, from
their role in helping to moderate desert temperatures to preventing flooding. Thoughtfully designed public
open spaces can offer multiple benefits such as water storage, cooling and carbon absorption. They can
provide natural features for flood management, walkways and roadway buffering. They can be home to
native plants and preserve unique habitats and biodiversity.

GOAL P-3: Use of technological advances, new concepts

and new designs to minimize the use of non-renewable
resources.
Action Step P-3.1: Continue to maintain building and zoning
codes that permit the practical application of new and
advanced concepts, designs, and ideas in recreation and
entertainment.
Action Step P-3.2: Recognize access barriers such as interstates,
highways, and railroads while also acquiring land in growth
areas that do not require users to navigate these barriers.
Action Step P-3.3: Encourage adherence to appropriate
elements of the United States Green Building Council’s
(USGBC), and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
(LEED) criteria in the design and construction of recreation
facilities.
Action Step P-3.4: Work with HOAs in Casa Grande to upgrade
parks to provide an adequate Level of Service (LOS).
Action Step P-3.5: Use Homeowner Association (HOA) parks as
neighborhood trailheads to access citywide and regional trails
and greenways.
Action Step P-3.6: Explore building partnerships with new HOAs
for park maintenance and access.
Action Step P-3.7: Encourage developers and HOAs to be
environmentally sensitive in their open space elements.
Action Step P-3.8: Monitor water use on all community services
parcels for long-term sustainability.
Action Step P-3.9: Update irrigation systems to provide the
most efficient application.

Dave White Golf Course

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Parks, Recreation, Trails, & Open Space

| Element 151
 GOAL P-4: Coordinated park and trail planning and
programs between Casa Grande, Pinal County and
neighboring jurisdictions.
Action Step P-4.1: Collaboration between the City and Pinal
County, neighboring municipalities, and state and federal
landowners and/or managers to coordinate and complement
recreation and open space amenities.
Action Step P-4.2: Work in partnership with appropriate
entities to ensure coordinated efforts are communicated and
supported to fully complement the City’s community resource
provision.
Action Step P-4.3: Conduct regularly scheduled coordination
meetings with Pinal County and other entities and
or jurisdictions as required to coordinate trail system
development in the region.
GOAL P-5: Expand City’s network of open spaces, parks,
and trails.
Action Step P-5.1: Proactively identify, and when appropriate,
act on opportunities to acquire land for future open spaces,
parks, trails, and community facilities.
Action Step P-5.2: Create new parks and trails in areas where
residents are not currently served.
Hiking Trail
Action Step P-5.3: Strive to meet the national standards
advertised by the National Recreation and Park Association in
2019 of at least 10.1 acres of developed park land per 1,000
residents, 8.3 full time equivalent employees per 10,000
residents, and $78.69 per capita spending per year.
Action Step P-5.4: Plan for new parks in expanding areas to
supplement the service currently being provided exclusively by
HOAs.
Action Step P-5.5: Plan for connectivity between the trails and
open space provided in Casa Grande and those set forth in the
Pinal County Open Space and Trails Master Plan.
Action Step P-5.6: Apply The Arizona We Want Progress Meter
regarding acres of open space and miles of trails per person to
ensure compliance with state and county standards.

152 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Action Step P-5.7: Review land holdings for expansion of
services and facilities. This could include new sports fields, new
recreation centers, new aquatic centers, new libraries or new
parks.
Action Step P-5.8: Ensure that all new parks be constructed to
provide adequate LOS.
Action Step P-5.9: Locate parks in new developments.
Action Step P-5.10: Explore the possibility of creating an Adopt-
A-Park and trail program to help with park maintenance,
beautification, and civic pride.
Action Step P-5.11: As available, review land in growth areas for
future parks based on creating a consistent base LOS.
Action Step P-5.12: Continue to acquire land to develop a scenic
corridor around Casa Grande by connecting large parks with
greenways and multi-use trails.
Action Step P-5.13: Increase recreational resources by
maximizing the multi-purpose uses of existing open spaces.
Action Step P-5.14: Build partnerships within the community
to take advantage of existing facilities, share new facilities, and
help maintain community facilities.
Action Step P-5.15: Supplement public-owned open spaces
with private open space resources.
Action Step P-5.16: Establish a dedicated funding source for
park and trail development.
Action Step P-5.17: Create a comprehensive resource plan
using all resources in the Casa Grande area to enhance the
Community Services Department programs and services.
Action Step P-5.18: Work with developers of industrial and
commercial properties that abut trail corridors to ensure
adequate access and trail connection for their employees and
the community at-large, while also taking into consideration
that safety concerns are also met through adequate design,
strategic alignments and site planning.

Community Park Tree Planting

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Parks, Recreation, Trails, & Open Space

| Element 153
 VISION: RECREATION AND CULTURE.
The City approved a Community Services Department Master Plan in 2007. This plan identified standards
for new and existing recreation, cultural and leisure facilities throughout the City.
The mission of the City of Casa Grande Community Service Department is to improve the lives of the entire
community by providing exceptional experiences. The City strives to improve residents’ quality of life
through parks, open space and trails, equal access to a diversity of material through library services, and a
variety of recreation programs and activities for the community.

GOAL P-6: A City rich in recreational resources and quality

of life opportunities.
Action Step P-6.1: Expand recreational program offerings to
meet the changing needs of the community.
Action Step P-6.2: Update the Community Services Master
Plan by the year 2025 to meet the changing needs of the
community.
Action Step P-6.3: Expand, where feasible, the number of
community-wide, City-sponsored special events promoted and
located in parks and/ or facilities best suited to accommodate
the activity/event.
Action Step P-6.4: Expand where feasible fitness and wellness
programs for the entire community.
Action Step P-6.5: Expand, where feasible, recreational
Recreation programs and City-sponsored events, programming for the entire community.
such as a pop-up movie screening at the park,
can provide additional entertainment options to Action Step P-6.6: Expand, where feasible, arts and cultural
residents. events for the entire community.
Action Step P-6.7: Evaluate Wi-Fi locations in order to provide
internet access at City owned facilities for use by all citizens.
Action Step P-6.8: Enhance the “Casa Grande” quality of life
recreational program effort focusing on nature, environment,
and stewardship of parks and open spaces.
Action Step P-6.9: Ensure 50% of all recreational program
offerings are adapted for various physical abilities, in
compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Action Step P-6.10: Provide accessibility for the Deaf and
Hard of Hearing (DOH) for all major City events, public
communications and advertising from the Community Services
Department, including digital media.

Community Activities

154 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities

OVERVIEW
The City employs approximately 438 individuals who work among
various departments throughout the City. Full-time 2020 staffing is
379 employees, while the rest are part time positions.
This element provides:
• An inventory of existing public buildings and facilities,
including schools, and an assessment of how these facilities
are currently meeting the needs of the City. (For park and
recreation/community center. facilities, please refer to the
Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails element.)
• Recommendation of needs to ensure support for the City’s
additional growth.
• The City’s Visions, and those Goals and Action Steps that will
ensure these future needs can be accommodated.
This section is organized into three main areas for City and public
facilities and operations:
• City Emergency Operations for Police and Fire.
• City Administrative/Non-Emergency Operations including City
Hall, Municipal Court, North & South Operation Centers, City
Landfill, Airport, Wastewater Treatment Plant, Animal Shelter/
Control and the Downtown and Vista Grande Libraries.
• Non-City Public Facilities includes Museums, County Facilities,
Hospital, Colleges and Schools (Public/ Public Charter/ Private).

INVENTORY
A map of buildings and facilities by type can be found at Map
Figure 3:12.

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities

| Element 155
 VISION: A COMMUNITY WITH RIGHT-SIZED QUALITY FACILITIES, PROVIDING
EXEMPLARY SERVICES MEETING CITIZENS’ NEEDS.
With a current land area of 71,000 acres, and an estimated growth rate of 3% per year for the next decade,
Casa Grande is indeed a “Growing Horizon”. Strategically located well-staffed schools, libraries, police and
fire stations, and other public facilities ensure that a high quality of life is maintained as the community
grows and Casa Grande continues to be an attractive location to employers.

CITY EMERGENCY OPERATIONS:

Police
In 2020 Casa Grande has 1.45 officers per 1,000 residents, with 80
sworn officers. As the City population increases, additional officers
will be needed to maintain the current officer to population ratio.
The City is divided into five patrol districts, A-E, with one patrol
team per district. (See Map Figure 3:13). Each team is comprised
of five-officers with continual coverage. The size of each district
is based on its respective density and concentration of calls for
service (CFS). The smallest district is E, “Edward” bound by Kortsen
and Florence to the north and south, and Pinal and Trekell to the
west and east. The largest district is D, “David”, primarily covering
the vast undeveloped northwest portion of the City west of Pinal
between McCartney and the City limits. This area also includes
areas east of Pinal in more populous areas leading south to
Cottonwood Lane.
There is currently one police station and a separate dispatch center
serving the City. As the City grows, additional districts may be
necessary to maintain the current two to three minute response
time. Alternatively, the Police department could reconfigure the
existing five districts to cover CFS volume and the density of
population associated with new development.
As new development is planned, the Police Department will be
made aware of large planned development projects to help them
consider the need for redistricting and provide an opportunity
for input during the review process. Currently, the response time
is adequate, and the response time for most CFS is within two to
three minutes.

156 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Fire
Casa Grande Fire has four districts, each with a fire station that
is staffed with four firefighters. (See Map Figure 3:14). The Fire
Department also serves as first responders to emergency incidents.
Current fire department response times are about 5 minutes. Traffic
and the City’s transportation network have a significant impact
on Fire Department response times. It is important for the Fire
Department to know where areas of planned growth are so that
stations, equipment, and districting can be planned accordingly.
Including Fire Department representatives in the reviews of
planned development can provide valuable input about whether
the scope and location of a project can be feasibly and readily
covered. As the City continues to develop, there may be a need to
relocate certain stations that don’t meet response time objectives.

VISION: A COMMUNITY THAT ATTRACTS CITIZENRY BECAUSE OF THE QUALITY

SAFETY AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE SERVICES THAT IT PROVIDES.
A network of well-maintained access routes to all areas of the City to respond to emergency needs in
a timely manner, implementing technology and media outreach to assist in crime prevention, and
proactively including Police and Fire in reviews of large or significant development proposals will help
shape the City into a safe, attractive space.

GOAL PF-1: Optimize response times for emergency

response.
Action Step PF-1.1: Utilize the City website, other social media,
and the City’s public access channel to provide resources for
the public such as safety reminders and helpful emergency
tips, to help reduce the potential or minimize the severity of
some of the calls for service.
Action Step PF-1.2: Include police and fire departments as
part of a stakeholder notification process for large imminent
projects to guide them in decision-making and future planning
for their facilities, staffing, and equipment.
Action Step PF-1.3: Add review criteria for significant zone
changes, major site plans, and subdivision plats, assessing the
feasibility of emergency response based on nearest facility, and
the roads and road quality that access these areas.
Action Step PF-1.4: Implement CPTED (Crime Prevention
Through Environmental Design) measures through site
planning input to help minimize risk of and hazards associated
with crime and emergency response and to encourage active
communities with more “eyes on the street”.

Chapter 3 | Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 157

 GOAL PF-2: Find alternative funding sources for police
and fire facilities.
Action Step PF-2.1: When practical, seek to offset impact fees
owed for the police or fire facilities portion, by allowing a land
dedication in an area where a station is planned or determined
to be necessary for the surrounding area’s proposed use and
impact.

CITY GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION/

NON-EMERGENCY OPERATIONS:
The city owns and operates several facilities that support
administrative and non-emergency functions. These include the
12.74-acre Municipal Campus that houses the City Hall, Municipal
Court and former Union High School Auditorium, and the North
and South Operation Centers, Animal Control and Shelter, City
Municipal Airport, Libraries, and the City Wastewater Treatment
Plant.

Municipal Campus
The City’s 12.74-acre municipal campus is located on Florence
Boulevard across from the City’s Historic Downtown. This centrally
located site provides a setting for most of the City’s administrative
activities.
Many of the City’s administrative staff work at City Hall, located
in the former historic Union High School Buildings. Within City
hall is the Council Chamber which is used for Council, Board, and
Commission meetings. One such commission is the Casa Grande
Youth Commission. This Commission consists of area students
appointed by the Mayor and helps to foster leadership in City
youth by including them in the City decision-making process.
The City Hall buildings are where City residents go for passport
services, business, pet, and liquor licensing, City utility bill payment
and services, as well as planning, and building permits. As the
City continues to grow, there may be a need to expand City
administrative offices; however, the space provided is currently
adequate. Due to the age of the buildings, preventative as well as
regular maintenance is important. There is room on the municipal
campus for expansion.
The former Union High School Auditorium is also located on
the municipal campus. This building is vacant and is a potential
redevelopment opportunity for a civic purpose such as a
performance hall, or for expanded office space. The Municipal
Court building is also part of this campus.

158 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

North & South Operation Centers
The North Operations Center is located in the northern portion
of the City and houses the Public Works Administration, City
Engineering and Street staff along with an equipment storage yard
and fueling station. The South Operations Center is located south
of the downtown area and houses Parks Maintenance, Animal
Control/Shelter, Public Works storage yard and fueling station.

City Landfill
The City Landfill is owned and operated by the City and is located
near Interstate 8 and Chuichu Rd. The City also has its own
trash collection that offers pickup services up to twice weekly
for properties located within the City. The Landfill service area
includes properties beyond the City limits, such as Arizona City and
Stanfield. The Casa Grande Landfill is approximately 130 acres in
size. This acreage is segregated into three cells.
The “West Cell”, is 54.5 acres and is estimated to be at capacity
by 2029. Prior to reaching full capacity, plans to start utilizing
the “East Cell” will commence in 2026. This is 51.5 acres. This is
estimated to be at capacity by June of 2044. At that point, a new or
expanded location will be needed. Additionally, there is a “North
Cell”, 23 acres, that is not designed for landfilling but rather serves
as an area for retention basins and used for cover material (soil)
stockpiling.

Wastewater Treatment Plant

The Wastewater Treatment Facility for Casa Grande is located
west of Dave White Park and is the sole treatment facility for the
community. In 2020, the facility processed an average of 4.5 +/-
million gallons per day (MGD). The facility is designed to process
up to 12 MGD. In addition to the current actual flow into the plant,
the City is committed to serving approximately 23,000 platted,
undeveloped lots within municipal limits. Based on the current rate
of development, it is likely that the wastewater treatment plant
may need to expand operations within the next five years. This
expansion will likely entail the construction of a recharge facility,
with an additional recharge facility planned at a later date. Given
that within 30 years the City is projected to double in size, there
will need to be another wastewater treatment facility constructed.

Chapter 3 | Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 159

 City Municipal Airport
The City Municipal Airport is an approximately 411-acre facility
with its own master plan. This document provides an analysis
of future demands and recommendations. The facility is sized
in a manner than can accommodate future expansion as needs
warrant.

City Libraries
The Downtown Library and Vista Grande Library (a joint-use facility
with Vista Grande High School) are the two public libraries in Casa
Grande. Casa Grande is the only city in Pinal County to have both a
main and branch library. The local library system is a vital resource
for community interaction and collaborative learning. It provides
digital and hard copy resources that can be accessed onsite
and remotely. City libraries offer public computers, Wi-Fi access,
and provide public meeting and activity rooms. The Downtown
Library recently completed a building addition that expanded
space for activity rooms and meeting areas ideal for smaller public
gatherings.
According to www.worldcitiescultureforum.com, many cities
provide 2.4 libraries for every 100,000 people, approximately one
library for every 42,000 people. Based on that formula, the City
is providing the correct number of libraries and will not need an
additional library until the population reaches 125,000 residents.
Both City libraries are located south of Cottonwood Lane. While the
library system also has a mobile system (bookmobile) and provides
for digital dissemination of library material, additional library
locations could be considered as the City continues to develop
outward. Because libraries are places where Casa Grande residents
of all ages and abilities gather, additional library locations should
be easily accessible by foot, bike, transit (if it exists) and vehicles.
The Community Services Master Plan is a tool for strategizing
growth, utilization, and placement of local libraries and will be the
document that ultimately focuses on future library placement,
staffing, and services.

Community and Recreation Centers

Many of the facilities listed below are covered under the
Community Services Master Plan, and the Parks, Recreation, Open
Space and Trails element; they include:
• Boys and Girls Club
• Casa Grande Recreation Center
• Dorothy Powell Senior Center
• Len Colla Recreation Center
• Peart Senior Center

160 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 • Woman’s Club
• Casa Grande Gun Range
As Casa Grande’s population increases, and additional areas
develop, the City will need to consider building additional
recreation centers in order to help meet the needs of a growing,
active population.

VISION: PROVISION OF CONVENIENT SERVICES AND FACILITY SPACE FOR

BUSINESSES AND RESIDENTS TO EFFICIENTLY PERFORM THEIR DAY-TO-DAY
TASKS.
Ever-increasing technological resources coupled with the opportunity for the City to strategically locate
services can result in a future of well-connected and integrated services and spaces.

GOAL PF-3: Provide Public Facilities that continue to

meet the City’s administrative and service needs.
Action Step PF-3.1: As the City continues to grow, and
additional space is needed, consider expanding City
administrative offices.
Action Step PF-3.2: Consider potential redevelopment
opportunities for the former Union High School Auditorium.
Action Step PF-3.3: Consider unified landscaping, wayfinding
signage, and lighting to enhance the integration of buildings
on the City’s Municipal Campus and to better connect the
Municipal Campus to the historic downtown.
Action Step PF-3.4: Begin to identify new locations that meet
the landfill needs of the City ahead of the 2044 capacity date.
Action Step PF-3.5: Update the Wastewater Treatment Master
Plan to address the timing, location and size of the additional
wastewater treatment facilities needed to serve future growth.
Action Step PF-3.6: Update the Airport Master Plan to reflect
the improvements needed to support the population and
economic growth anticipated by this Plan.
Action Step PF-3.7: Consider future City library facilities
and levels of accessibility needs in the next update to the
Community Services Master Plan and incorporate the
Community Services Master Plan into this Plan by reference.
Action Step PF-3.8: Evaluate the need for new City recreation
centers to accommodate population growth in the next
update to the Community Services Master Plan.

NON-CITY PUBLIC FACILITIES

Chapter 3 | Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 161

 MUSEUMS:
The Museum of Casa Grande is owned by the Casa Grande Valley
Historical Society and staffed by volunteers along with a paid
Director. The Museum is an historic and cultural resource for
the City and offers tours and programs related to local history
and culture as well as a limited selection of books available for
checkout. The Casa Grande Neon Sign Park has been recently
opened. It is a unique outdoor museum displaying lighted signage
of former and existing historic Casa Grande businesses and
provides a fun nod to the past.

County Administrative Facilities:

Though not a City facility, Pinal County provides administrative
County-related services in a satellite campus within Casa Grande.
This service is a convenient amenity for Casa Grande residents who
would otherwise have to travel to Florence for County business. It
also provides ease of doing business between the City and County
for governmental affairs.

K-12 Schools:
The City’s school age population is primarily served by the Casa
Grande Elementary School District and the Casa Grande Union
High School District. See district maps at Map Figure 3:15, Map
Figure 3:16, & Map Figure 3:17.
Currently, there are nine public elementary schools, three middle
schools, and two high schools. There are two public charter K-8
schools, and three public charter high schools. Additionally, there
are two private K-8 schools: St. Anthony’s de Padua and Logos
Christian Academy.
The student enrollment is broken down accordingly:
2019/2020 school
School year Enrollment
Public Pre-K-8 schools 6,571
Public High schools 3,362
Public Charter K-8 schools 1958
Public Charter High Schools 514
Private K-8 schools 249
Total 12,654
Figure 3:35 School Year Enrollment, 2019-2020
Source: City of Casa Grande

162 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

The Elementary and High School Districts serve populations living
both within the City limits as well as those outside of the City limits.
A demographic and enrollment analysis was prepared for the
Casa Grande Elementary School District by Applied Economics in
January 2020. This report suggested that no additional K-8 schools
would be needed as the existing locations could absorb the
projected enrollment for the next 10 years.
In terms of the elementary school district, the area expected
to experience the strongest enrollment increase is north of
McCartney Road. Areas where K-8 enrollment is expected to
decline are generally outside the Phase I Growth Area. Though
no similar study was available for the area’s public high schools,
assumptions can be drawn that the bolstered elementary
enrollment will relay onto the high schools. Casa Grande’s two
public high schools are designed to accommodate larger volumes
of students than the elementary facilities and are not anticipated
to need additional facilities within the next ten years. However, as
the City grows there may be a need for new locations.
There are some areas of the City that lack schools nearby and
students from these areas have to travel a disproportional distance
for their education. There are a number of planned developments
throughout the City that have designated future school sites. There
are also development agreements between the elementary school
district and land developers that require a per lot payment, or
dedication of land for a school site in lieu of payment, at the time
of subdivision development. The City will work toward compiling
a list of designated school sites to help inform the school districts
should new school locations ultimately be sought. This can be
particularly helpful if a school site is identified in an area presently
under-represented by school facilities.

Colleges
Central Arizona College (CAC) is the only nearby higher education
institution, the main campus is located just on the eastern edge of
the planning area boundary, with satellite locations in Casa Grande.
The college provides students with opportunities to continue their
education and earn progressive degrees. The Northern Arizona
University Extended Learning program is also offered out of Central
Arizona College.

Chapter 3 | Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 163

 The current enrollment of CAC is 4,500 students, but it is projected
to increase to 6,000 attendees within the next ten years. No new
campuses or extension facilities are planned; however, the college
is intending to move many programs to virtual or hybrid formats,
according to Central Arizona College President Dr. Jackie Elliott.
The college anticipates that the greatest program expansion will
be within the construction, electrical, and health curricular areas.

VISION: CELEBRATE THE RICH BEGINNINGS AND HISTORY OF CASA GRANDE

THROUGH ARTS AND CULTURE DEMONSTRATED IN MUSEUMS, PUBLIC
GATHERING SPACES, ETC.
With the anticipated population increase and influx of new companies, homes, and services; there is a
need to retain what made Casa Grande what it is today. Coordinated events and utilizing facility spaces to
showcase the area’s roots will affirm the City’s identity and celebrate its future. It’s also important for the
City to establish a template for others in shaping the community while also being receptive to innovative
ideas from the public.

GOAL PF-4: Provide convenience to customers and city

employees who must commute from one City facility to
another to conduct business.
Action Step PF-4.1: Create a process by which the
recommendations of the General Plan can be formally
considered in conjunction with the purchase of sites for new
city buildings and facilities.
Action Step PF-4.2: Provide a better liaison/triage service
between remote departments so that a customer can remain at
their one location but obtain the information they need from
another.
Action Step PF-4.3: Consider sites adjacent to existing facilities
for facility expansion, when practical.
Action Step PF-4.4: When feasible, promote the ability to offset
impact fees owed for the general government portion of
those fees, by allowing a land dedication in an area where a
governmental facility is determined to be necessary.
GOAL PF-5: Protect the City’s Investments.
Action Step PF-5.1: Action Step PF-4.1: Budget for site
improvements such as enhanced landscaping, and bolstered
enforcement of parking and maintenance codes of properties
immediately surrounding City Hall, Downtown Library and
other sensitive areas in order to highlight popular well-visited,
public spaces.

164 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step PF-5.2: Ensure adherence to facilities’ conformance
with their respective approved landscape and site plans to
prevent attrition and to avoid an appearance of inconsistency
of what the City expects regarding maintenance of private
properties.
GOAL PF-6: Reduce the impact and long-term cost of
planned and expanded facilities.
Action Step PF-6.1: Secure a cost-effective contract with a
recycling company, to help offset the amount of refuse going
to the local Casa Grande landfill in order to extend its life.
Action Step PF-6.2: Explore ways to increase the use of
reclaimed water such as offsetting or reducing the wastewater
impact or development fee for developments that use effluent
or non-potable water.
Action Step PF-6.3: Explore cost recovery alternatives for
infrastructure improvements.
Action Step PF-6.4: Where practical, encourage private streets,
built to City standards, to reduce City maintenance costs.
Action Step PF-6.5: Revise the subdivision code to encourage
smaller phased plats in order that subdivision improvements
can be more adequately synced with the timing of
development.
Action Step PF-6.6: Explore ways to enable wi-fi access for the
entire community, particularly in remote areas of the City.

VISION: A COMMUNITY KNOWN FOR SUPERB EDUCATION AND RELATED

PROGRAMS.
Quality K-12 schooling opportunities is the start to a competitive educational environment which is
mutually beneficial to the students and area employers. This is especially important given the City’s
“Growing Horizon”, where a significant increase in job opportunities is anticipated and which in turn
presents an opportunity for area residents to remain or return to the area.

GOAL PF-7: Establish educational resources to the

students of this community.
Action Step PF-7.1: Provide gathering spaces within public
facilities for the use of home-schooled students.
Action Step PF-7.2: Share residential permit data with area
school districts on a regular basis to help inform them of areas
under development and rate of growth.

Chapter 3 | Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 165

 Action Step PF-7.3: Through the Casa Grande Youth
Commission, promote tours of area businesses.
Action Step PF-7.4: Work with area businesses to provide
opportunities for internships available for area students.
Action Step PF-7.5: Consider providing CDBG funding to
entities that provide enhanced access to early childhood
educational programming for students from low-moderate
income families.
Action Step PF-7.6: Utilize the metrics associated with the
Arizona Education Progress Meter (https://www.arizonafuture.
org/az-progrsss-meters/education/overview/ ) to identify
educational needs and opportunities. Identify areas of
partnerships to address noted concerns.

VISION: ACCESS AND MEANS FOR DIVERSE EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS.

There is an opportunity for more vocational schools/programs to come to Casa Grande to provide the
necessary technical training for the upcoming employment prospects at places such as Lucid and Nikola.
A diverse, educated population will ensure retained employment and continued attraction of companies.
In today’s online-era of digital learning, more online programs can augment or replace the traditional
learning environment.

GOAL PF-8: Develop a well-trained workforce which can

meet the requirements of employers.
Action Step PF-8.1: The Casa Grande Economic Development
Department to work with Central Arizona College and
employers to identify the specified training and skill
development needed for businesses and industry.

166 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 ¾
Map Figure
Map Figure 3.12:
3:12 PUBLIC Public and
& GOVERNMENT Government Facilities
FACILITIES
¾ Facilities Index
¾
¾ 29 1 - Casa Grande Main Library

OLIVE
FRENCH
VAL VISTA BLVD 2 - Vista Grande Library

¾ ¾
14 ¾
21 3 - Palm Island Family Aquatic Center

PINAL
D

PINAL
BEN
GIL
A 16 4 - Dave White Vehicle Maintenance
FLORENCE FLORENCE
5 - Dave White Irrigation Maintenance
¾
20

AL L
¾¾ ¾ ¾¾
4T
MA 2N H
13 6 - Dave White Municipal Golf Course

SH
¾
D
IN Casa Grande Municipal Airport

N
37 36 11 7 - Casa Grande Landfill Building A

AR
9

TO

M
17
CA
8 - Casa Grande Landfill
SA
¾¾ ¾
1

CAMINO MERCADO
35 34 9 - Casa Grande Communications Bldg.

¾¾10
24 10 - Casa Grande Municipal Airport

CASA GRAN DE
11 - Peart Center

¾ ¾
39
¾ 28 12 - Water Reclamation Facility
¾22 13 - Fire Station 501 (Downtown)

¾
40 14 - Casa Grande City Hall Building B
15 - Casa Grande City Hall - Main Bldg.

A
¾
LL
27 16 - Community Services

SI
MO
¾
25
M
AI
N

HE
R
^ 17 - Dorthy Powell Senior Center
18 - Fire Station 504 (North)
19 - Fire Station 502 (East)
20 - Casa Grande Women's Club
ASH MCCARTNEY MCCARTNEY Inset 2 - East Florence Area 21 - Casa Grande Public Safety
¾
FLORENCE

18
22 - NOC (Operations)
^ ^ 23 - NOC (AZFMS)

PEART
24 - Fire Station 503 (Airport)
Inset 1 - Downtown ^ 25 - SOC (Operations)
26 - SOC (AZFMS)
27 - Casa Grande Animal Care/Adoption
Rodeo Grounds 28 - Casa Grande Teen Center
29 - Casa Grande Municipal Court Bldg.
RODEO 30 - Len Colla Recreation Center
31 - Community Recreation Center

TREKELL
32 - Pinal County Public Health Dept.
33 - Pinal County Precinct Building
Dave White Municipal Golf Course 34 - Arizona State Government Office
35 - Arizona Dept. of Veterans Services
PINAL

^
BURRIS

36 - AHCCCS
¾
4 37 - Dept. of Economic Security
38 - Arizona Motor Vehicle Division

¾ 12 KORTSEN ^^ KORTSEN 39 - USDA Casa Grande Service Center

40 - U.S. Border Patrol
41 - Social Security Administration
¾
31 42 - USPS Post Office

Facility Type
¾ ¾
^ ¾¾
32 Federal State

PEART
¾¾
42
COTTONWOOD 38 33 COTTONWOOD
¾ County ¾ City
¾^
CLAYTON

^^ ^ ^ Elementary School District

HENNESS
^ Union High School District
THORNTON

Inset 1 ^¾ ¾
41
PINAL

3
^ Inset 2 Version Date: 11/17/2020

²
ARIZOLA

¾¾
29 ¾
19
GILA BEND HIGHWAY

¾ ¾¾¾ ¾
20 13 16
¾
FLORENCE FLORENCE

37
¾¾¾¾ 34 1 17
¾¾¾
39
¾ 30
40

¾¾ ^ ^
BURRIS

25

^
ASH DOAN

HACIENDA
TREKELL

PEART

Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,

0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community Miles

Chapter 3 | Element Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 167

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168 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.13:
3:13 POLICE PoliceFACILITIES
DEPARTMENT Department Facilities
Public Safety Services

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd

Estrella Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Toltec Rd

Tweedy Rd
Pinal Ave
Anderson Rd

Russell Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd
Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd
_ Public Safety Facilities

Ak-Chin Gila River Public Safety Service

Indian Indian Community Boundary
Waverly Dr
Community
Police Districts
Casa Grande Public Safety Facility

Val Vista Rd _ Val Vista Rd A - Adam

B - Baker
Teel Rd Woodruff Rd
B C - Charlie

Miller Rd McCartney Rd D - David

E - Edward
Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd

Other Features
Korsten Rd A Kortsen Rd Tribal Communities

Interstate
Clayton Rd
D C Cottonwood Ln Major Road

Public Safety Dispatch

Gila Bend Hwy
A _ Florence Boulevard

²
Peters Rd Earley Rd

Selma Hwy Selma Hwy

Cornman Rd
E Cornman Rd
0 0.5 1 2 3
Miles

Hanna Rd Hanna Rd Version Date: 11/17/2020

Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,

GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
Arica Rd Arica Rd CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
IGN, and the GIS User Community

Shedd Rd Shedd Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy

Henness Rd
Midway Rd
Murphy Rd

Tohono O'odam

Tweedy Rd
Estrella Rd
Russell Rd

Trekell Rd

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

Nation

Chapter 3 | Element Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 169

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170 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.14:
3:14 FIRE Fire FACILITIES
DEPARTMENT Department Facilities
Public Safety Services

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd

Estrella Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Toltec Rd

Tweedy Rd
Pinal Ave
Anderson Rd

Russell Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd
Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd
!
m Fire Station

Fire Service Area

Ak-Chin Gila River
Indian Indian Community
Community Fire Districts
501
Val Vista Rd Val Vista Rd
502
503
Teel Rd !
m Woodruff Rd 503

504
Miller Rd
!
m McCartney Rd

Expansion Areas
504
Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd Potential New Station
Areas

Kortsen Rd Kortsen Rd Other Features

Tribal Communities
Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln
Interstate
501
Gila Bend Hwy
!
m !
m Florence Boulevard
Major Road

²
Peters Rd Earley Rd

502
Selma Hwy Selma Hwy

Cornman Rd Cornman Rd
0 0.5 1 2 3
Miles

Hanna Rd Hanna Rd Version Date: 11/14/2020

Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,

GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
Arica Rd Arica Rd IGN, and the GIS User Community

Shedd Rd Shedd Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy

Henness Rd
Midway Rd
Murphy Rd

Tweedy Rd
Tohono O'odam

Estrella Rd
Russell Rd

Trekell Rd

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

Nation

Chapter 3 | Element Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 171

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172 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.15:
3:15 CASA Casa
GRANDE Grande
ELEMENTARY Elementary
DISTRICT #4 - K-6 School District #4
Elementary Schools

Midway Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Overfield Rd
Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Weaver Rd
Pinal Ave
Fuqua Rd

Russell Rd
Murphy Rd

Anderson Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Stanfield Rd

Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd

Thornton Rd
School Area Boundaries
1 - Cholla School
Cholla School McCartney Ranch School 1180 E Korsten Rd
Casa Grande, AZ, 85122
Cottonwood School Mesquite School
2 - Cottonwood School
1667 N Kadota Ave
Desert Willow School Palo Verde School
Casa Grande, AZ, 85122
Millrise Rd
Evergreen School Saguaro School
3 - Desert Willow School
(in Mission Valley PAD)
Ironwood School
Trading Post Rd 2172 N Arizola Rd
Casa Grande, AZ, 85122

4 - Evergreen School
Val Vista Blvd Val Vista Rd 1000 N Amarillo St
Casa Grande, AZ, 85122

Woodruff Rd Woodruff Rd 5 - Ironwood School

1500 N Colorado St
Casa Grande, AZ, 85122
McCartney Rd McCartney Rd
6 - McCartney Ranch School
!
6 (in McCartney Ranch PAD)
2631 N Brown Ave
Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd Casa Grande, AZ, 85122

Kortsen Rd ! 1 ! 3
Kortsen Rd
7 - Mesquite School
129 N Arizola Rd
Casa Grande, AZ, 85122

Clayton Rd ! ! 2
5
Cottonwood Ln
8 - Palo Verde School
40 N Roosevelt Ave
Casa Grande, AZ, 85122

Gila Bend Hwy ! 4

Florence Boulevard 9 - Ocotillo Annex School

! ! ! 8 7 501 S Florence St
9 Casa Grande, AZ, 85122
Peters Rd Earley Rd
Other Features
Selma Hwy Selma Hwy
City Limits

Interstate
Cornman Rd Cornman Rd
Major Road

Hanna Rd Hanna Rd Version Date: 11/20/2020

Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, Airbus

DS, USGS, NGA, NASA, CGIAR, N Robinson,
Arica Rd Arica Rd NCEAS, NLS, OS, NMA, Geodatastyrelsen,
Rijkswaterstaat, GSA, Geoland, FEMA,
Intermap and the GIS user community

²
Shedd Rd Shedd Rd

Eleven Mile Corner Rd

Houser Rd Houser Rd
Montgomery Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Ethington Rd
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy
Stanfield Rd

Henness Rd
Corrales Rd
Midway Rd
Murphy Rd

Tweedy Rd
Estrella Rd
Russell Rd

Bianco Rd

Trekell Rd
Fuqua Rd

Burris Rd

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

0 0.5 1 2 3
Miles

Chapter 3 | Element Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 173

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174 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.16:
3:16 CASA Casa
GRANDE Grande
ELEMENTARY School
DISTRICT #4 - 7-8 District #4
Middle Schools

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd

Estrella Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Weaver Rd

Overfield Rd

Toltec Rd
Pinal Ave
Fuqua Rd

Russell Rd
Murphy Rd

Anderson Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Stanfield Rd

Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd
School Area Boundaries 1 - Casa Grande Middle School
260 W McMurray Blvd
Casa Grande Middle School Casa Grande, AZ, 85122

2 - Village Middle School

Villago Middle School (in Villago PAD)
574 E Lakside Pkwy
Casa Grande, AZ, 85122
Millrise Rd Cactus Middle School

3 - Cactus Middle School

1220 E Korsten Rd
Trading Post Rd Casa Grande, AZ, 85122

Val Vista Blvd Val Vista Rd Other Features

City Limits
Woodruff Rd Woodruff Rd

McCartney Rd
!
2
McCartney Rd
Interstate

Major Road

Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd

Kortsen Rd ! 3 Kortsen Rd

Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln
! 1

Gila Bend Hwy Florence Boulevard

²
Peters Rd Earley Rd

Selma Hwy Selma Hwy

Cornman Rd Cornman Rd

0 0.5 1 2 3
Hanna Rd Hanna Rd Miles

Version Date: 11/20/2020

Arica Rd Arica Rd Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri,

Airbus DS, USGS, NGA, NASA, CGIAR, N
Robinson, NCEAS, NLS, OS, NMA,
Shedd Rd Shedd Rd Geodatastyrelsen, Rijkswaterstaat, GSA,

Eleven Mile Corner Rd

Houser Rd Houser Rd
Montgomery Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Ethington Rd
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy
Stanfield Rd

Henness Rd
Corrales Rd
Midway Rd
Murphy Rd

Tweedy Rd
Estrella Rd
Russell Rd

Bianco Rd

Trekell Rd
Fuqua Rd

Burris Rd

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

Chapter 3 | Element Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 175

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176 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map
MapFigure
Figure 3:173.17: CasaUNION
CASA GRANDE Grande Union
HIGH SCHOOL High School District
DISTRICT

High Schools

Casa Grande Union High School

2730 N. Trekell Road
Enrollment: 1,777 (2018)
Capacity: 2,800 (2018 est.)

Casa Grande Union High School

Vista Grande High School

1556 N. Arizola Road
Enrollment: 1,585 (2018)
Capacity: 1,875 (2018 est.)

Vista Grande High School Version Date: 11/20/2020

n
Union High School District Office
n Service Layer Credits: Esri, HERE, Garmin, (c)
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS user
community
Sources: Esri, Airbus DS, USGS, NGA, NASA,
CGIAR, N Robinson, NCEAS, NLS, OS, NMA,
Geodatastyrelsen, Rijkswaterstaat, GSA, Geoland,
FEMA, Intermap and the GIS user community

0
²2.5 5 10 15
Miles

Chapter 3 | Element Public Services, Buildings, & Facilities 177

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178 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
CIRCULATION, TRANSPORTATION,
& COMMUNITY MOBILITY

OVERVIEW
A well-planned transportation network safely and efficiently
moves people and goods throughout a city or region. It supports
and fosters economic growth and enhances the quality of life
for visitors and residents in the City. The City of Casa Grande’s
transportation network includes: streets, pedestrian and bicycle
facilities such as sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and trails; connections
to regional transit services and a municipal airport. As the City
continues to develop, the transportation system will continue to
expand to support a sustainable land use pattern and a healthy
Bicycle and Vehicle Transportation Corridor economy.

The City is well situated with respect to linkages to significant

regional rail and highway corridors. The Union Pacific Railroad
(UPRR) passes diagonally, from east to west, through the center
of the City. Interstates 8 and 10 pass through the southern and
eastern portions of the Planning Area (respectively). State Routes
84 (Gila Bend Highway), 287 (Florence Boulevard), and 387 (Pinal
Avenue) provide regional connections as well as location for a
significant amount of retail and commercial activity within the City.
The State highways are maintained by the Arizona Department of
Transportation (ADOT). Casa Grande also owns and maintains a
well-established system of arterial and collector roadways. With the
exception of the historic downtown, these are generally oriented
on a north/south grid layout.
In 2007, the City of Casa Grande completed a Small Area
Transportation Study (SATS). This study identified a system of
freeways, expressways (also known as parkways), arterial streets,
and transit services to serve the area’s future population and
employment base. Since then, additional studies have updated
the vision for the long-range roadway and transit networks within
the City. These revised plans are shown on Map Figure 3:18 and
Map Figure 3:19. Collector facilities will connect with the one-mile
grid of arterials to provide access to local neighborhoods and
commercial areas.

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Circulation, Transportation & Community Mobility

| Element 179
 Airport
The Casa Grande Municipal Airport is owned and operated by the
City of Casa Grande. The Airport serves small, general aviation
aircraft. The City has employed aviation consultants to undertake
an airport master plan to address future runway configurations
and include strategies to enhance the capacity of the airport to
serve commercial and other types of business uses. The draft
airport master plan currently includes proposals for a 4,750 foot
southwesterly extension of the existing runway for a total ultimate
runway length of 8,400 feet. In addition, the plan considered
construction of new exit taxiways, and a new 3,650 foot parallel
runway located north and west of the existing runway. Noise
contours for the final airport configuration will be developed as
part of this process.

Trails
The City recently approved the Casa Grande Trails Master Plan. The
Master Plan identifies a Community Trails System that connects
destinations, and is designed to provide an alternative non-
motorized transportation facility for City residents. The Community
Trails System includes Linear Parks, Community Trails, Spur Trails,
Rural / Unpaved Trails, Primitive Trails, Enhanced Bicycle and
Pedestrian Corridors. Information about the Community Trails
System, and goals, policies and strategies, are included in the Parks,
Open Space and Trails, and Recreation Element of this plan.

Circulation System
The City’s transportation and circulation system is an integral
part of the overall development pattern of the City. The Land Use
Map identifies places where different land use and transportation
patterns are appropriate. The Land Use element speaks to the
density, intensity, and type of land use desired within City Land Use
categories. This Element describes the type, capacity, and design
of transportation infrastructure needed to support these Land Use
categories.
The following visions, goals and action steps are intended to guide
efforts to integrate a functional, multi-modal circulation system
with existing, and future land uses in the City of Casa Grande.

180 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Map Figure 3:18 PLANNED ROADWAY NETWORK

LEGEND
GILA RIVER
INDIAN COMMUNITY Base Map Features
City Boundary
Study Area
Indian Community
Waterway
AK-CHIN Facility Types
INDIAN COMMUNITY
Future Interstate
Existing Interstate
Val Vista Blvd
Parkway

Burris Rd
Principal Arterial

He
Pinal Rd
Woodruff Rd

Cox Rd
nn
Nissan
Minor Arterial

es
Test

sR
Track

d
McCartney Rd Truck Route

Roadway Network Features

Peart Rd

Overfield Rd
Jim

11 Mile Corner Rd
mi Rodeo R
Rd Existing Traffic Interchange
B
Barnes Rd

Toltec Butets Rd

Signal Peak Rd
eK
er
r
New Traffic Interchange

Tweedy Rd
Curry Rd
Bl Existing System Interchange

Thornton Rd
vd Kortsen Rd
Kortsen Rd
New System Interchange
Cottonwood Ln
Cottonwood Ln New Roadway Overcrossing

T
Florence Blvd
Potential R/R Grade Separation
Gila Bend Hwy
Potential Watercourse Crossing
Earley Rd

Peters Rd
Selma Hwy

Hacienda Rd
Selma Hwy

I-8 Frontage Rd

Note 1: These roadways do not account for all

existing planned development, current roadway
Hanna Rd alignments, or vertical structures, and should
not be construed as centerline or roadway
Russell Rd

Ethington Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd
Stanfield Rd
Fuqua Rd

Burris Rd
Midway Rd

Trekell Rd
Thornton Rd
Montgomeryy Rd

Carmel Blvd

alignments.
Arica Rd
Note 2: Improvements to the state highway system
Rd

can be made only after in-depth planning and

engineering studies are conducted by ADOT, and
Anderson

Shedd Rd upon approval of the State Transportation Board. All

traffic interchange and system interchange
Un improvments must be approved by the Federal Highway
Chuichu Rd

ion
Pa Administration (FHWA). The recommendations made
cif by this study for improvements to state facilities can
Houser Rd ic
Ra
ilro serve only as suggestions for further study.
TOHONO O’ODHAM ad
INDIAN COMMUNITY Battaglia Rd

SOURCE: WILSON & COMPANY, INC., ENGINEERS & ARCHITECTS, LAST REVISED: JULY 2020.

Chapter 3 | Element Circulation, Transportation & Community Mobility FIGURE X

181
Future Roadway Plan
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182 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure 3:19 PLANNED TRANSIT NETWORK

Chapter 3 | Element Circulation, Transportation & Community Mobility 183

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184 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

VISION: A COMMUNITY WITH SUSTAINABLE AND LINKED RESIDENTIAL,
EMPLOYMENT AND SUPPORTIVE USES.
As future development occurs within Casa Grande, a context-sensitive transportation network,
compatible with adjacent land uses, should be developed to promote convenient and efficient travel
throughout the community, while identifying opportunities to minimize long-term costs associated with
maintaining transportation facilities.

GOAL CTM-1: When considering changes to the Land

Use or Transportation elements of this Plan, the City will
consider the relationship between land use and need for
supportive transportation infrastructure.
Action Step CTM-1.1: Develop and adopt design standards and
guidelines for transportation facilities consistent with the Land
Use Categories described in the Land Use Element.
Action Step CTM-1.2: As part of the City’s development review
process, require developers to provide an evaluation of the
extent to which transit, pedestrian, bicycle, multi-use paths,
and equestrian facilities for proposed land use developments
might help facilitate citywide mobility.
Action Step CTM-1.3: As new development occurs, the City will
continue to identify opportunities to improve substandard
transportation facilities in order to meet future mobility needs.
Action Step CTM-1.4: Restrict the installation of utilities or
buildings within the ultimate roadway cross-sections identified
in Map Figure 3:18. if those installations will have to be relocated
to accommodate future roadway improvements.
Action Step CTM-1.5: Develop and adopt design standards and
guidelines for transportation facilities consistent with the Land
Use Categories described in the Land Use Element.
GOAL CTM-2: The capacity of the City’s transportation
system will be in balance with planned and current land
uses.
Action Step CTM-2.1: The City will achieve Level of Service, (LOS)
D or better on all Arterial and Collector Streets.
Action Step CTM-2.2: Consider the impact of new development
on the City’s mobility and transportation system capacity and
access as part of the City development review process.

Chapter 3 | Circulation, Transportation & Community Mobility 185

 GOAL CTM-3: Develop mobility standards for the
Downtown land use category that reduce the conflicts
between current and planned land uses while meeting
acceptable transportation Levels of Service (LOS).
Action Step CTM-3.1: Transportation infrastructure in the
Downtown land use category will meet or exceed City
standards, and include a higher level of multi-modal features
to accommodate pedestrians, bicyclists, and future transit
services.
Action Step CTM-3.2: The City may modify standard roadway
cross-sections in the Downtown land use category to achieve
a higher level of pedestrian and multi-modal transportation
activity. Speed limits and truck restrictions may also be applied
as necessary to achieve the desired combination of motorized
and non-motorized transportation services.
Action Step CTM-3.3: The City may reduce or eliminate standard
parking requirements in the Downtown land use categories
to promote a higher level of pedestrian and multi-modal
transportation activity.
Action Step CTM-3.4: Develop a new street cross-section
that may be more appropriate to areas which serve greater
pedestrian facilities and activities, such as walking, sitting,
street furniture, street parking, outdoor dining, and sidewalk
displays/sales as the primary activity and vehicular access as an
important, secondary activity.
Action Step CTM-3.5: Encourage new development in the
Downtown land use category to include facilities for electric
vehicle charging and autonomous vehicle pick-up/drop off
locations.
GOAL CTM-4: Develop mobility standards for the
Community Corridor land use category that reduce the
conflicts between current and planned land uses while
meeting acceptable transportation Levels of Service
(LOS).
Action Step CTM-4.1: Transportation infrastructure in the
Community Corridor land use category will meet or exceed
City standards, and will include a higher level of multi-modal
features to accommodate pedestrians, bicyclists, and future
transit services.
Action Step CTM-4.2: The City may modify standard roadway
cross-sections in the Community Corridor land use category
to achieve a higher level of pedestrian and multi-modal
transportation activity.

186 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step CTM-4.3: The City may reduce or eliminate standard
parking requirements in the Community Corridor land use
category to promote a higher level of pedestrian and multi-
modal transportation activity.
Action Step CTM-4.4: Encourage new development in the
Community Corridor land use category to include facilities for
electric vehicle charging and autonomous vehicle pick-up/drop
off locations.
GOAL CTM-5: Provide transportation facilities to support
the commercial activities planned for the Commercial
& Business and Manufacturing & Industry land use
categories.
Action Step CTM-5.1: Provide capacity for future transit facilities
in the Commercial & Business and Manufacturing & Industry
land use categories.
Action Step CTM-5.2: Require pedestrian linkages between
buildings and between buildings and adjacent streets in the
Commercial & Business and Manufacturing & Industry land use
categories.
Action Step CTM-5.3: Design vehicular access for commercial
and industrial uses to avoid direct connectivity to residential
local and/or collector streets.
Action Step CTM-5.4: Plan, design, and develop transportation
facilities in the Manufacturing & Industry land use category to
move high volumes of traffic and goods via a combination of
improved interstate highways, expressways/parkways, arterial
streets, rail, and the Casa Grande Municipal Airport.
Action Step CTM-5.5: Where possible, integrate technology
to support alternative fuel and autonomous vehicles in new
development located in the Commercial & Business and
Manufacturing & Industry land use categories.
GOAL CTM-6: Reduce the City’s cost of construction for
new streets when possible, while keeping them practical
and safe.
Action Step CTM-6.1: Require, when appropriate, new
developments to dedicate rights-of-way for construction
of transportation facilities within and adjacent to the
development.
Action Step CTM-6.2: Require new developments to construct
or provide financial assurance, equivalent to the cost of
construction for new transportation facilities.

Chapter 3 | Circulation, Transportation & Community Mobility 187

 Action Step CTM-6.3: Continue to work with private, state, and
federal entities, as well as Sun Corridor Metropolitan Planning
Organization and the Pinal Regional Transportation Authority,
to partner in the funding of transportation improvements.
GOAL CTM-7: Include sustainable design elements, such
as permeable surfaces and native and drought-tolerant
vegetation in street and public transportation facility
design.
Action Step CTM-7.1: Consider the use of innovative pavement
materials, such as rubberized asphalt, to reduce noise and dust.
Action Step CTM-7.2: To reduce impact on the waste stream,
consider the re-use of materials in street and streetscape
design.
Action Step CTM-7.3: Roadway bridges shall be designed to
accommodate design year storm drainage requirements
commensurate with planned roadway uses and adjacent land
uses. Low-flow crossing designs may be developed for local
and collector street wash crossings where traffic volumes do
not warrant constructing a bridge.
Action Step CTM-7.4: Consider the use of roadway design
elements, such as cool pavements, to reduce the heat island
effect.
GOAL CTM-8: Roadway improvements should reflect the
character, function, form, and aesthetics associated with
adjacent land uses.
Action Step CTM-8.1: Establish a stakeholder involvement
process for major roadway improvement projects, to obtain
broad-based input on integrating design features with the
context of adjacent land uses.
Action Step CTM-8.2: Develop and adopt roadway design
standards and guidelines consistent with the principles of
Context Sensitive Design Solutions. This includes incorporating
design themes into roadway and streetscape features.
GOAL CTM-9: Update expressway/parkway, arterial,
collector, and local roadway design standards to
accurately reflect travel function and anticipated travel
volumes based upon best in-class practices that reflect
development intensity and land use character.
Action Step CTM-9.1: Design and build a transportation system
in accordance with the Roadway System described on Map
Figure 3:18.

188 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step CTM-9.2: Present a five-year plan for roadway
improvements to City Council each fall as an element of the
Capital Improvement Program.
Action Step CTM-9.3: Consult and coordinate with the ADOT
in establishing right-of-way and design standards for Pinal
Avenue, Florence Boulevard, and the Gila Bend Highway.

VISION: A SAFE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK.

The safety of Casa Grande residents and visitors is of utmost importance. Transportation facilities should
be designed to minimize the potential for crashes, and promote safe travel for all modes, including
automobiles, trains, trucks, pedestrians, and cyclists.

GOAL CTM-10: Administer appropriate guidelines

regarding driveway access spacing and street intersection
spacing to maintain capacity, efficiency, and safe traffic
flow throughout the transportation network.
Action Step CTM-10.1: Adhere to the most recently adopted
driveway spacing and location requirements on expressways/
parkways, arterials, and collector streets in order to provide
appropriate access to adjacent property while preserving the
traffic flow and safety needs associated with the corresponding
roadway facility type.
Action Step CTM-10.2: Adhere to the most recently adopted
street intersection spacing and alignment requirements in
order to establish a consistent, efficient, and safe transportation
network.
Action Step CTM-10.3: Consolidate driveway access points along
arterial streets when and where possible and practical as a part
of street improvement projects.
Action Step CTM-10.4: Consult and coordinate with ADOT to
ensure that ADOT permits, and projects within the Casa Grande
planning area are consistent with the City’s driveway and
intersection spacing requirements.
Action Step CTM-10.5: For new developments adjacent to two
roadways of different facility type, vehicular access to the
roadway network will generally be permitted by the City only
on the lower classification roadway. This is particularly true for
development within the Downtown and Community Corridor
land use categories.

Chapter 3 | Circulation, Transportation & Community Mobility 189

 GOAL CTM-11: Whenever possible, separate railway
crossings from the roadway.
Action Step CTM-11.1: Require a grade separation for any
roadway projects that include a new railroad crossing.
Action Step CTM-11.2: When a grade separation of a rail crossing
is not possible, use pavement markings, signs, and other
warnings to alert drivers to the railroad crossing.
Action Step CTM-11.3: As new grade-separated railway crossings
are developed, identify opportunities to eliminate existing at-
grade crossings.
GOAL CTM-12: Safely separate pedestrians from vehicular
traffic.
Action Step CTM-12.1: Use traffic control tools such as signals,
high-intensity activated crosswalk (HAWKS), and speed tables
to reduce speeds and enhance safety.
Action Step CTM-12.2: Encourage pedestrian connectivity within
and between developments. Require designs that include cul-
de-sacs and street networks that disrupt pedestrian network
continuity to provide pedestrian linkages to adjacent streets,
sidewalks and trails.
GOAL CTM-13: Use traffic management techniques to
enhance safety within the roadway right-of-way.
Action Step CTM-13.1: Conduct periodic safety studies on the
arterial and collector streets, including intersections, and
implement appropriate countermeasures where abnormal
crash patterns are identified.
Action Step CTM-13.2: Include preemptive devices in new traffic
signals to improve response times for emergency vehicles.
Action Step CTM-13.3: Research and implement, as applicable,
new technologies such as adaptive signal control and vehicle-
to-vehicle communication.

190 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

VISION: A CONNECTED COMMUNITY WITH ACCESSIBLE, AFFORDABLE, ACTIVE
AND MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS.
While private automobile travel may represent the most highly used transportation mode, some residents
may not have adequate access to a personal vehicle, or may require alternative forms of transportation
to get access to jobs, healthcare, shopping, schools, or other destinations. Others may prefer active
transportation options such as walking or biking for recreational purposes. Thus, the City’s transportation
network should be developed to allow for efficient travel by a variety of travel modes.

GOAL CTM-14: Develop public transportation.

Action Step CTM-14.1: Work with regional, public, and private
partners in the development of public transportation plans and
programs.
Action Step CTM-14.2: Coordinate with local and regional public
and private transportation providers in the promotion and
expansion of their services, and assist in promoting public
awareness of service availability.
Action Step CTM-14.3: Identify opportunities to implement the
recommended short- and long-range transit routes identified
in the City’s Transit Development Plan.
Action Step CTM-14.4: Amend existing roadway design
standards and guidelines to accommodate future public
transportation services.
Action Step CTM-14.5: Consult and coordinate with ADOT and
the Union Pacific Railroad to express the City’s support for
intercity rail passenger service along I-10 or through Casa
Grande.
GOAL CTM-15: Encourage and facilitate the use of bicycle
corridors as an active transportation option.
Action Step CTM-15.1: Develop and adopt a Bicycle Facilities
Master Plan that is consistent with, and supplements, the
Casa Grande Regional Trail System Master Plan that includes
bicycle paths, bicycle lanes, and bicycle routes, along with the
associated design features required for an efficient, effective,
safe and connected bicycle network.

Chapter 3 | Circulation, Transportation & Community Mobility 191

 GOAL CTM-16: Encourage safe, pleasant, and attractive
facilities for walking and biking consistent with the Casa
Grande Regional Trail System Master Plan.
Action Step CTM-16.1: Develop design standards for new arterial
and collector streets to provide for improved sidewalks within
the public right-of-way on both sides of the street when the
street is built to its ultimate cross-section.
Action Step CTM-16.2: Separate sidewalks and pedestrian
amenities from the edge of the roadway with landscaping,
parking, or vertical barriers.
Action Step CTM-16.3: Provide for pedestrian travel on both
sides of local streets in residential areas.
Action Step CTM-16.4: Participate in ‘safe routes to school’
programs to enhance the continuity and safety of the
pedestrian system for travel to and from schools.
Action Step CTM-16.5: Where feasible, incorporate specialized
design features to highlight pedestrian crossing locations.
GOAL CTM-17: Require connectivity within and between
developments.
Action Step CTM-17.1: Require direct vehicular, bicycle, and
pedestrian connections between commercial and adjacent
residential developments.
Action Step CTM-17.2: Require direct vehicular, bicycle, and
pedestrian connections between adjacent commercial
developments.
Action Step CTM-17.3: Require bicycle and pedestrian
connections between residential subdivisions, and between
master-planned developments.
Action Step CTM-17.4: Require new development to provide
transit stops when determined appropriate by the Planning
and Development Department.
GOAL CTM-18: Promote the development of equestrian
trails that are consistent with the Casa Grande Regional
Trail System Master Plan and that provide a safe, healthy
and convenient mode of transportation and recreation.
Action Step CTM-18.1: Within areas designated Rural and
Agriculture on the Land Use Map, provide equestrian facilities
when appropriate and practical along canals, within the public
street right-of-way, and on other linear public right-of-way.

192 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

VISION: CASA GRANDE IS AN ACTIVE REGIONAL CENTER.
With access to a municipal airport, rail corridor, and two interstate facilities, Casa Grande is uniquely
positioned as an economic hub for regional travel. Coordination with regional planning partners
is essential to promote the City’s role in supporting regional connections for residents, visitors, and
businesses.

GOAL CTM-19: The City of Casa Grande will participate in

the regional transportation planning programs carried out
by Pinal County, Pinal Regional Transportation Authority,
Sun Corridor Metropolitan Planning Organization, Central
Arizona Governments, ADOT, and neighboring tribal
governments for the Gila River, Ak-Chin Communities,
and Tohono O’odham Nation, and will advocate inclusion
of the City’s long-term objectives and vision in regional
plans and programs. The City will also solicit the
participation of regional planning partners, as appropriate,
in Casa Grande’s transportation planning efforts.
Action Step CTM-19.1: Consult and coordinate with adjacent
jurisdictions to ensure adequate and consistent roadway
classifications, widths, alignments, transition segments, and
improvements at the jurisdictional boundaries.
Action Step CTM-19.2: Action Step CTM-19.2: Continue to
cooperate with adjacent jurisdictions to plan and improve
roadway and public transportation through the execution of
intergovernmental agreements.
Action Step CTM-19.3: Action Step CTM-19.3: Support regional
transportation planning programs that incorporate the City’s
long-term objectives and vision.
Action Step CTM-19.4: Action Step CTM-19.4: Participate with
other regional planning partners in discussing and evaluating
the potential creation of a regional transit authority.
Action Step CTM-19.5: Action Step CTM-19.5: Promote the
widening of I-10 as a 6 lane facility between Casa Grande and
Phoenix metro area.
GOAL CTM-20: The City will ensure that land uses
surrounding the municipal airport are compatible with
future development and master plans for the airport.
Action Step CTM-20.1: Update, adopt, and use the Casa Grande
Municipal Airport Master Plan to designate land use categories
in the Land Use Element that are compatible with long range
development plans for the airport.
Action Step CTM-20.2: Pursue available State and Federal grants
that are available for airport development.

Chapter 3 | Circulation, Transportation & Community Mobility 193

 GOAL CTM-21: Encourage the long-term viability of rail
freight and passenger service to the community.
Action Step CTM-21.1: Permit land uses adjacent to existing and
planned rail lines that are compatible with railroad operations.
Action Step CTM-21.2: Support and participate in activities
related to intercity freight and passenger service.
Action Step CTM-21.3: Coordinate with industrial users and the
Union Pacific Railroad to maintain and improve rail access for
existing and potential industrial users.
Action Step CTM-21.4: Coordinate with the Union Pacific
Railroad and adjacent property owners to identify
opportunities to improve aesthetic compatibility.
Action Step CTM-21.5: Support the implementation of trails and
aesthetic buffers along the railroad consistent with the Casa
Grande Regional Trail System Master Plan.
Action Step CTM-21.6: Implement policies to identify and
enforce truck routes.

194 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION, REVITALIZATION,
CONSERVATION, REHABILITATION & REDEVELOPMENT

OVERVIEW
The purpose of this element is to support the preservation,
revitalization and, where appropriate, redevelopment of housing
sites, business and industrial sites, and public building sites within
Casa Grande. The goals and action steps within this element
serve to encourage new, appropriate growth while preserving
neighborhood history and culture.
The City seeks to eliminate conditions of blight such as vacant
and abandoned buildings, substandard structures, and unsafe
or unsanitary conditions through the implementation of Code
Enforcement programs and revitalization projects intended to
improve the quality and character of City neighborhoods. By
Single Family Rehabilitation--Before
conserving Casa Grande’s stock of residential and commercial
buildings and working together with community stakeholders
to maintain the structural integrity and physical appearance
of these properties, the City can prevent the deterioration of
older neighborhoods and create safer, healthier neighborhoods
that provide access to quality housing, jobs, and services for all
residents.
A crucial part of neighborhood preservation is rehabilitating and
maintaining Casa Grande’s existing housing stock. Expanding
upon programs that assist residents in acquiring, maintaining,
and repairing their homes preserves the housing stock and also
promotes homeownership. In particular, preserving affordable Single Family Rehabilitation--During
housing units and increasing opportunities for low-income
homeownership plays an important role in ensuring affordable
housing choices for all City residents.
Reinvigorating Casa Grande’s older neighborhoods also requires
commercial revitalization. Local businesses provide an array of
community amenities and services for neighborhood residents.
Investing in these businesses improves public perception of the
encompassing neighborhood, creates more spaces for resident
interactions, and boosts the economic and social capital of the
surrounding area.

Single Family Rehabilitation--After

Chapter ement Neighborhood

3 | Neighborhood
Element Preservation,
Chapter3El||Neighborhood Preservation, Preservation,
Revitalization,
Revitalization,
Conservation,
Conservation,Revitalization,
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation
&&Redevelopment
Redevelopment 195
Conservation, Rehabilitation & Redevelopment
 Community revitalization improves neighborhood quality by highlighting
the unique community assets of older neighborhoods, then enhancing
and strengthening those assets. Preserving the buildings, infrastructure,
and services in older neighborhoods is key in preserving the character and
sense of place found within these areas.

Neighborhood Strategic Areas

The City recognizes five neighborhoods – located in the East, West, Central,
South Central, and South portions of the older part of Casa Grande –
as areas that would most benefit from preservation and revitalization
efforts (See Map 4:16 Neighborhood Strategy Areas). Formally known as
Neighborhood Strategy Areas, these locations were chosen because they:
• Have the oldest housing stock and commercial buildings in the City.
• Have the highest concentration of blight factors present.
• Contain all of the City’s identified historically significant structures.
• Have the highest number of low- to moderate-income residents.
The City also recognizes a sixth Neighborhood Strategy Area along
Florence Boulevard, between N. Trekell Rd. and N. Pottebaum Rd., as an
area that would benefit from commercial revitalization. This commercial
corridor – identified as Florence East – contains a number of older
plazas, shops, restaurants, and other community amenities. Revitalizing
these aged structures, sites with inadequate or poorly designed parking
and streetscape landscaping, and vacant properties will create a more
attractive, economically viable commercial corridor in the older part of the
City.
Throughout this element, Neighborhood Strategy Areas may also be
referred to as revitalization areas or older neighborhoods. Focusing
attention on these areas is crucial to preventing their decline and
improving the quality of life for all Casa Grande residents.

Opportunity Zones
Casa Grande’s federally designated Opportunity Zones are also prime
locations for community revitalization. Opportunity Zones are low-income
Census tracts that qualify for capital gain tax incentives to encourage
community investment. Map 4:17 Opportunity Zones shows the locations
and land use designations of the City’s designated Opportunity Zones.
Encouraging Opportunity Zone investment is one way to boost economic
productivity and generate revenue to fund growth and development
throughout the City. Portions of the West, East, and Downtown (South
and South Central) Neighborhood Strategy Areas fall within the bounds
of the City’s Opportunity Zones, as highlighted in Map 4:18 Neighborhood
Strategy Areas. Focusing Opportunity Zone investments in designated
revitalization areas allows the City to maximize available incentives for
economic development while also furthering revitalization goals.

196 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.20: Neighborhood
3:20 NEIGHBORHOOD STRATEGY AREAS Strategy Areas
Neighborhood Strategy

Pinal Ave

Trekell Rd
Cottonwood Ln Cottonwood Ln Areas
Central

East

Florence East

South

South Central

McMurray Blvd West

McMurray Blvd

Opportunity Zones
Opportunity Zones

Other Features
Streets

Buildings
Florence Blvd
Gila Bend Hwy Parks

Ash Ave
Doan St 0 0.1
² 0.2

Version Date: 11/20/2020

0.4
Miles

Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,

GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
IGN, and the GIS User Community
Chichiu Hwy

Trekell Rd

Peters Rd Earley Rd

Chapter 3 | Element Neighborhood Preservation, Revitalization, Conservation, Rehabilitation & Redevelopment 197
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198 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.21: Designated
3:21 DESIGNATED Opportunity Zones
OPPORTUNITY ZONES

Opportunity Zones

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd

Estrella Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Toltec Rd

Tweedy Rd
Pinal Ave
Anderson Rd

Russell Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd

Eleven Mile Corner Rd

Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd
Opportunity Zones

Ak-Chin Gila River

Indian Indian Community Land Use Categories
Community
Commerce and Business

Community Corridor

Woodruff Rd Woodruff Rd Downtown

Large Mixed-Use
McCartney Rd McCartney Rd
Manufacturing/Industry

Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd Neighborhoods

Open Space
Korsten Rd Korsten Rd
Rural

Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln
Other Features
Gila Bend Highway Florence Boulevard Interstate

Streets
Peters Rd Earley Rd

²
Selma Hwy Selma Hwy

Cornman Rd

Hanna Rd 0 0.5 1 2 3
Miles

Version Date: 12/11/2020

Arica Rd
Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,
GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
IGN, and the GIS User Community

Arizona Opportunity

Eleven Mile Corner Rd

Zones Map Tohono O'odham
Nation

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Arizona Opportunity
Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy

Henness Rd

Zones Map

Tweedy Rd
Estrella Rd
Trekell Rd

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

Chapter 3 | Element Neighborhood Preservation, Revitalization, Conservation, Rehabilitation & Redevelopment 199
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200 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

VISION: IMPROVE NEIGHBORHOOD APPEARANCE, LIVING CONDITIONS, AND
OVERALL QUALITY OF LIFE IN THE CITY’S OLDER NEIGHBORHOODS THROUGH
THE PRESERVATION AND REVITALIZATION OF RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL
AREAS.
Over the years, portions of Casa Grande’s older neighborhoods have experienced declines in building
condition, infrastructure, and the quality of amenities and services offered. Substandard, aging
structures may contribute to unsafe living conditions and negatively impact the appearance and value
of surrounding structures. The City hopes to promote high-quality buildings and public spaces, economic
vitality, and community cohesion within older neighborhoods through investment in infrastructure,
development, and community resources.
As community revitalization efforts drive changes and improvements in older neighborhoods, the City
must be conscious of the risk of displacement that may accompany neighborhood change. Conserving
the cultural heritage and diversity of buildings, amenities, lifestyle choices, and residents in older
neighborhoods is essential to promoting socially conscious growth and development patterns.

GOAL NP-1: Continue the City’s efforts to rehabilitate

housing and replace substandard housing.
Action Step NP-1.1: Conduct an inventory and assessment
of all vacant and abandoned houses in the City, and focus
revitalization efforts on those units.
Action Step NP-1.2: Identify substandard homes and homes in
older neighborhoods in need of repair and develop programs
that will assist property owners in the renovation of these
structures.
Action Step NP-1.3: Support the purchase of foreclosed housing
units in older neighborhoods and their rehabilitation to meet
City codes.
Action Step NP-1.4: Explore the potential to expand the City’s
housing rehabilitation program to rental units.
Action Step NP-1.5: Establish targeted code enforcement
programs to improve housing conditions in revitalization areas.
Action Step NP-1.6: Address maintenance and the potential
replacement of manufactured homes in older neighborhoods,
and ensure that infrastructure, services, and amenities for those
areas provide adequate levels of service.

Chapter 3 | Element Neighborhood Preservation, Revitalization, 201

Conservation, Rehabilitation & Redevelopment
 GOAL NP-2: Maintain affordable housing and promote
income diversity in older neighborhoods as revitalization
projects take place.
Action Step NP-2.1: Strive to preserve existing affordable and
workforce housing units in older neighborhoods.
Action Step NP-2.2: Seek funding and resources that will assist
the City in facilitating additional affordable housing units.
Action Step NP-2.3: Work with the county and state to advocate
for the preservation and creation of housing that meets the
needs of low to moderate income persons within City limits.
Action Step NP-2.4: Seek strategies and incentives to promote
mixed-income housing in older neighborhoods in order to
encourage income diversity and economic vitality.
GOAL NP-3: Increase homeownership opportunities for
low-income residents.
Action Step NP-3.1: Research strategies and best practices for
building affordable housing and strengthening neighborhood
revitalization efforts.
Action Step NP-3.2: Seek funding and resources to establish a
homebuyer assistance program.
Action Step NP-3.3: Support the placement of income-qualified
families into housing through direct or deferred loans.
Action Step NP-3.4: Support funding assistance for residents
who have low credit but sufficient income to purchase or rent
housing.
GOAL NP-4: Raise community awareness of programs
and laws that enable residents to resolve structural
deterioration and property maintenance issues.
Action Step NP-4.1: Work with residents through outreach to
maintain the quality and structural integrity of deteriorating
homes in older neighborhoods.
Action Step NP-4.2: Ensure that low-income, special needs,
and elderly residents have access to outreach materials
and programs. Consider alternative outreach strategies if
participation in rehabilitation programs does not increase for
these groups.

202 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

GOAL NP-5: Revitalize commercial developments in older
neighborhoods.
Action Step NP-5.1: Prioritize strengthening and revitalizing
existing commercial developments in older neighborhoods.
Action Step NP-5.2: Pursue opportunities to revitalize and,
where appropriate, redevelop commercial properties within
the Florence East Neighborhood Strategy Area. Actively seek
funding and investment for that commercial corridor.
Action Step NP-5.3: Promote the commercial development of
appropriate greenfield sites in revitalization areas, especially
those that overlap with the City’s Opportunity Zones.
Action Step NP-5.4: Create and publicize a list of available
commercial properties within the City’s revitalization areas
to promote economic development and investment in older
neighborhoods.
Action Step NP-5.5: Encourage the redevelopment or
improvement of strip malls and vacant commercial structures
throughout the City.
Action Step NP-5.6: In revitalization areas, review compatibility
between commercial developments and residential land
uses. In areas that lack compatibility, consider improvements
to infrastructure, streetscapes, and other public areas to
improve the visual appearance and economic value of the
neighborhood.
Action Step NP-5.7: Develop regulations which require owners
of vacant buildings to uphold a certain level of maintenance
and repair for their properties in order to prevent blighted,
substandard structures.
Action Step NP-5.8: Consider creating a storefront improvement
program that allows businesses in revitalization areas to apply
for assistance with renovating their building exteriors in order
to increase economic value and deter blighted conditions.
Action Step NP-5.9: Encourage new commercial developments
to match the character of the surrounding neighborhood
through site and building design elements.

Chapter 3 | Element Neighborhood Preservation, Revitalization, 203

Conservation, Rehabilitation & Redevelopment
 GOAL NP-6: Explore opportunities for investment in the
West, South, and South Central Neighborhood Strategy
Area portion of the City’s designated Opportunity Zones.
Action Step NP-6.1: Seek investments, funding sources, and
partnerships for residential and commercial development
projects in Opportunity Zone areas.
Action Step NP-6.2: Identify housing needs, neighborhood
perceptions and market trends in these neighborhoods and
use this data to support the investment search.
Action Step NP-6.3: Establish an inventory of underutilized
commercial properties that would benefit from investment and
revitalization.

VISION: CREATE A SHARED VISION FOR COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION IN

PARTNERSHIP WITH RESIDENTS, BUSINESSES, AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS;
EXECUTE REVITALIZATION PROJECTS WITH COMMUNITY SUPPORT.
The City seeks to engage in inclusive, equitable community revitalization practices that reflect the
needs and concerns of residents in every segment of Casa Grande’s diverse population. Preservation
and revitalization activities should be guided by input from residents, businesses, nonprofits and other
community organizations. Actively involving these stakeholders in the revitalization process encourages
a sense of shared responsibility in City neighborhoods. Additionally, partnerships with other government
entities, nonprofits, and community organizations creates a network of stakeholders willing to invest in
and contribute to the success of City revitalization efforts.

GOAL NP-7: Ensure that preservation and revitalization

efforts are closely tied to the needs and concerns of
residents.
Action Step NP-7.1: Connect with residents, local businesses,
nonprofits, and other stakeholders through community
outreach to identify and prioritize sites that would most
benefit from maintenance, repair, infill, and other revitalization
projects.
Action Step NP-7.2: Gather input from residents living nearest
to proposed revitalization projects, and make sure that input
represents a diverse group of stakeholders that reflect area
demographics.
Action Step NP-7.3: Work with residents to identify community
spaces used for neighborhood gatherings and work to support
and enhance these spaces through the pursuit of grants and
other funding sources.

204 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step NP-7.4: Build relationships with community
organizations (such as faith-based organizations and
neighborhood associations) located in Neighborhood Strategy
Areas in order to expand the network of stakeholders invested
in maintaining and revitalizing these neighborhoods. Use these
connections to generate more effective community engagement
practices.
Action Step NP-7.5: Consider allowing community organizations,
nonprofits, and individuals in Neighborhood Strategy Areas to
submit requests for City assistance with community projects that
align with the City’s revitalization goals.
Action Step NP-7.6: Consider creating neighborhood plans to
guide preservation and revitalization efforts that are tailored to
specific neighborhood conditions rather than using a blanket, or
one size fits all, approach for the whole City.
GOAL NP-8: Increase resident participation and investment
in community revitalization efforts.
Action Step NP-8.1: Provide training opportunities for community
leaders and volunteers to build leadership skills and outreach
capacity. Encourage continued civic engagement and investment
in maintaining the quality of City neighborhoods.
Action Step NP-8.2: Explore the potential to create a tool lending
program that allows volunteers, nonprofits, and community
organizations to borrow equipment for property maintenance,
community clean-ups, and other neighborhood-led revitalization
efforts.
Action Step NP-8.3: Consider creating a volunteer program
focused on assisting elderly, special needs, and low-income
residents with home repairs and maintenance (such as painting
exteriors and cleaning up yards).
Action Step NP-8.4: Provide additional support to neighborhoods
that do not have HOAs, and encourage the creation and/or
continuation of neighborhood associations in those areas.
Action Step NP-8.5: Ensure that community outreach efforts are
expanded to all segments of the population, especially groups
that historically have been less involved in City processes.

Chapter 3 | Element Neighborhood Preservation, Revitalization, 205

Conservation, Rehabilitation & Redevelopment
 GOAL NP-9: Seek ways to build partnerships and leverage
public and private funds to further the City’s revitalization
goals.
Action Step NP-9.1: Facilitate public-private partnerships and
work with non-profits to expand revitalization efforts.
Action Step NP-9.2: Work with economic development entities
to attract new, appropriate neighborhood-level businesses to
revitalization areas.
Action Step NP-9.3: Consider a partnership among local
government, state, federal and large employers to look for
alternative funding sources to provide transportation to
employment centers.

VISION: CREATE SAFER, HEALTHIER LIVING CONDITIONS IN THE CITY’S OLDER

NEIGHBORHOODS BY MAINTAINING AND ENHANCING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT.
Public gathering spaces serve as community hubs where residents can participate in community activities,
and build a sense of shared responsibility for the living conditions in their neighborhoods. Examples
of such spaces include community centers, recreational facilities, after-school programs, and service
clubs. Public outdoor spaces such as City parks, open space, and sidewalks also encourage resident
interaction, and should provide aesthetically pleasing, safe environments that promote walking, biking,
and other outdoor activities. These environments are especially important in older neighborhoods that
may not have extensive sidewalks, well-maintained streetscaping, or safe open space. By investing in
the maintenance and revitalization of infrastructure, streetscapes, and public gathering spaces in Casa
Grande’s older neighborhoods, the City can promote stability and social well-being in these areas.

GOAL NP-10: Enhance existing assets and infrastructure

in revitalization areas.
Action Step NP-10.1: Survey infrastructure conditions in
revitalization areas and catalog issues such as broken
streetlights, potholes, and problems in City-owned facilities
and open spaces.
Action Step NP-10.2: Consider City construction of upgraded
infrastructure in revitalization areas. Dedicate Capital
Improvement Program funding and/or seek alternative funding
opportunities to facilitate these upgrades.
Action Step NP-10.3: Consider developing a streetscape
improvement program for older neighborhoods, with an
emphasis on increasing sidewalk connectivity and creating
safer conditions for pedestrians.
Action Step NP-10.4: Improve and maintain City-owned
community spaces in revitalization areas.

206 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step NP-10.5: Consider ways to support nonprofits and
community organizations that are based in revitalization areas
and offer important community services and amenities to
residents.
GOAL NP-11: Improve the safety and security of public
spaces in older neighborhoods.
Action Step NP-11.1: Incorporate Crime Prevention Through
Environmental Design principles into infrastructure upgrades
and public space improvements in revitalization areas.
Action Step NP-11.2: Ensure that public spaces are well lit and
maintained.
Action Step NP-11.3: Consider focusing City led crime prevention
programs in revitalization areas.
GOAL NP-12: Revitalize underutilized buildings and land
to reduce blight and increase economic value.
Action Step NP-12.1: Encourage infill development in older
neighborhoods.
Action Step NP-12.2: Seek incentives to drive redevelopment
and compatible reuse of vacant buildings throughout the City.
Action Step NP-12.3: Promote use to use compatibility for infill
projects.
Action Step NP-12.4: Ensure that infill development blends into
the existing fabric of the City’s neighborhoods and matches
them in character.
Action Step NP-12.5: Connect with owners of vacant lots in
older neighborhoods to evaluate their lots’ potential for
development and impact on the neighborhood.
GOAL NP-13: Incorporate sustainable design and
development practices into preservation and revitalization
projects.
Action Step NP-13.1: Implement green building techniques in
City redevelopment projects and encourage green building
techniques for private redevelopment.
Action Step NP-13.2: When rehabilitating homes and
maintaining public facilities, strive to improve energy efficiency
through repairs and modifications to existing structures.

Chapter 3 | Element Neighborhood Preservation, Revitalization, 207

Conservation, Rehabilitation & Redevelopment
 GOAL NP-14: Use data as a tool to guide decision-making
and the allocation of City funds for preservation and
revitalization projects.
Action Step NP-14.1: Document the prevalence of blight factors
(such as unsanitary or unsafe conditions, vacant or abandoned
buildings, and/or deteriorated building sites) in older City
neighborhoods.
Action Step NP-14.2: For each Neighborhood Strategy Area
conduct an existing conditions analysis that documents
demographic information, the quantity of vacant and
abandoned buildings, locations and conditions of empty
commercial spaces, and other factors relevant to revitalization
projects and the search for investments and funding.
Action Step NP-14.3: Catalog community assets in revitalization
areas, including resources such as community organizations,
institutions, and City services.
Action Step NP-14.4: Develop a set of community health
indicators (such as access to healthy foods, health care options,
park access, walkability, and prevalence of crime) to better
understand neighborhood needs and measure the success of
revitalization efforts.
Action Step NP-14.5: Use data to build community support and
understanding of the importance of revitalization projects in
the City’s older neighborhoods.

208 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
Historic Preservation

OVERVIEW
The Historic Preservation (HP) Element is intended to guide Casa
Grande’s effort to protect and preserve the historic, architectural,
cultural, and archaeological resources of the community. This
Element builds upon the provisions set forth in HP ordinances
adopted by the City Council, as well as recommendations for
expansions and operations of the municipal HP program. The
inclusion of an HP Element in the Casa Grande General Plan
Update 2030 signifies the City’s commitment to the preservation of
Heritage Hall- The Stone Church
properties and areas reflecting the community’s unique heritage.

During the 20th Century, historical preservation was established

as a valid public purpose. The government made strides to create
and meet preservation goals. The United States Supreme Court has
specifically noted the power of the government to regulate the
use of private property and provide public controls over land and
validate historical preservation laws as an appropriate exercise of
those powers. Legislatively, Congress adopted the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966, which declared historical preservation to
be a government priority and established the National Register of
Historic Places; which recognizes historic properties of state and
local significance.
Arizona adopted state legislation regarding historic preservation
through use of zoning powers delegated to Arizona cities and
towns. This allows local governments to establish districts of
historic significance and regulate development to preserve the
historical character of the designated areas. Many cities and towns,
including Casa Grande, have adopted ordinances to preserve the
rich history of the area. Evergreen District Historic Residence

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Historic Preservation

| Element 209
 The HP Element of the City of Casa Grande’s General Plan
will provide guidance to the owners of historically significant
properties, city staff, the Historic Preservation Commission
and City Council regarding historic preservation matters. The
importance of historic preservation as a component of growth
and municipal development has been well documented. Without
this consideration the preservation of the community’s historical
identity and character can be negatively impacted or lost by new
development. Accordingly, this plan lists recommendations to help
reduce these losses by monitoring historic resources, assisting
owners in understanding options, and providing incentives for
preservation.

HISTORIC RESOURCE POPULATION

The historic resource population of Casa Grande is associated with
five distinct periods of development:
Johnson’s Grocery Store-- The Landmark
• Settlement.
• Transition from a railroad camp to mining and distribution
center.
• Early 20th Century economic diversification.
• Depression/New Deal years.
• Post WWII growth.
Residences are the primary property classification associated with
the aforementioned periods of development. The oldest homes
are most often associated with early settlers and later prominent
business leaders and their families. Other houses are considered
architecturally significant for their representation of popular
architectural styles. Some residences are significant for adobe,
masonry construction and local craftsmanship. Other historic
property types include public, institutional, and commercial
buildings which were typically erected as part of a community’s
historic development.
Only a small proportion of the community’s extant historic
buildings were built before the Depression. The number of
buildings constructed doubled during the 1930s and WWII. The
post WWII period saw an explosion of building that continued into
the mid-1960s. In the 1970s, with the advent of master-planned
communities, the level of residential construction increased
significantly. Home construction accelerated again in the 2000-
2010 timeframe with approximately half of the current housing
stock constructed during that decade.

210 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Designation of historic properties by the City have been limited
to only buildings from the early 20th century. The threats to
the designated historic properties are very similar to other
communities of Arizona and the West. Economic considerations
are the most common threat. Historic buildings downtown are
threatened by redevelopment pressures. The need and cost for
functional upgrades to maintain viable uses affect decisions
about preservation. Changes in societal expectations and popular
tastes also come into play. Today’s families want larger houses
with more amenities than provided in earlier periods. Often small
historic homes sit on relatively large lots making them targets for
“teardowns.” The historic core of most cities, including Casa Grande,
is the home of the community’s governmental and institutional
leadership. The appearance and economic health of the historic
core is perceived as a direct reflection on that leadership. When
vacant, under-used or poorly maintained historic buildings exist,
political support for their preservation can be swayed to use other
approaches for protecting the community’s economic health
and viability. The most critical threat to the historic resources in
Casa Grande is the lack of awareness and appreciation of their
significance by the larger population. This is a phenomenon
affecting many Arizona cities due to significant amount of
immigration from other parts of the country and annual turnover
of residents.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF CASA GRANDE’S HISTORIC

PRESERVATION PROGRAM
Two buildings in Casa Grande were listed on the National Register
of Historic Places (NRHP) in the late 1970s. The Casa Grande Stone
Church was registered in 1978 and the Woman’s Club Building in
1979. A survey was undertaken in the early 1980s and a Multiple
Resource Inventory Area list was compiled. From this list, 26
properties were nominated to the NRHP during 1985 and 1986 by
the Casa Grande Historical Society and local volunteers. After the
formation of the Historic Preservation Program, the City became a
partner in further efforts to survey and designate properties on the
NRHP. In 2002, 21 additional properties were added to the NRHP
through a Multiple Property Submission.
The demolition of the Central Elementary School was a catalyst for
galvanizing community and political support for the formulation of
a municipal historic preservation organization. In August of 1991
the Mayor and Council passed and adopted Resolution 1940 which
established the Casa Grande Historic Preservation Commission and
a set of historic preservation regulations.

Historic Storefront

Chapter 3 | Historic Preservation 211

 LOCAL DESIGNATION ACTIVITIES
Following the enactment of the Historic Preservation Ordinance,
the City locally designated those properties that were listed on
the NRHP. These individually significant properties date primarily
from the first decades of the 20th century. In 2002 a survey was
conducted of the Evergreen addition to Casa Grande, resulting in
the local designation of a historic district. This act expanded the
City’s recognition of historic properties during the Depression and
the early post World War II (WWII) era.

REVIEW PROCEDURES
The Historic Preservation Commission has only conducted a
limited number of hearings for Certificates of Appropriateness
because most of the work either qualifies as routine maintenance
or involves work not requiring a building permit such as window
replacement or re-roofing. However, to assist in the review process,
the HP Commission has proactively sponsored the preparation
of design guidelines for the Evergreen Historic District. The
Commission has shared these guidelines with the owners of
properties within the Evergreen District.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION

The effective operation of a municipal Historic Preservation
Evergreen District Historic Residence Program requires recognizing, protecting and preserving the
community’s cultural, historical, architectural resources. However,
this work cannot be done in isolation. To be successful requires an
informed citizenry appreciative of Casa Grande’s heritage, as well as
a range of programs and projects to integrate historic preservation.
Further, as a Certified Local Government, the City of Casa Grande
also has a responsibility to enforce its Historic Preservation
Ordinance and State legislation by:
• Designating and protecting historic and archaeological
properties.
• Maintaining a qualified HP Commission.
• Surveying and maintaining a detailed inventory of its
designated properties.
• Providing for adequate public participation.
Some of the Action Steps set forth in this General Plan are simple
to undertake, while others will take multiple years to develop and
successfully implement.

212 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.22:DISTRICT
3:22 HISTORIC Historic District
& LANDMARK and Landmark Buildings
BUILDINGS

Directory
13TH 12TH

MARKLEY
DATE

4 1 - Walter Wilbur House

WALNUT
13TH 11TH
2 - Fisher Memorial Home
WOOD

13TH 11TH 3 - Benjamin Templeton House

4 - Spanish Eclectic House

WALNUT
11TH
5 - Earl Bayless House

CASA GRANDE
OR ANG
12TH

6 - Johnston's Grocery
CRANE

FRENCH

E
TRINITY
7 - Commercial Front

LEHMBERG
KADOTA
11TH ORANGE
8 - St. Anthony's Church
11TH
9 - BeDillon's House and Museum

CENTER

TREKELL FRONTAGE
ARBOR
10TH 10TH

PINAL

OLIVE
PARK
10 - Casa Grande Garage

GILBERT

COOLIDGE
11 - Fieldstone House

BROWN
DUNMAR 10TH
15
9TH

12 - Southern Pacific Depot

CAMERON
9TH

19

MORRISON
3
10TH

PICACHO
41 13 - Casa Grande Hotel
29 45 9TH
14 - Craftsman Bungalow
1S
T
9TH
15 - H.B. Lehmberg House
9TH
16 - Bayless/Grasty House

AMARILLO
WALNUT
20 9 33 2 17 - Pioneer Market
1 18 - Mandell and Meyer

PUEBLO
8TH
8TH 19 - Wilson and Galloway House
21 25 14 34 32 20 - Fieldstone Bungalow

PICACHO
ND
BE 21 - Craftsman Bungalow
GI
LA
22 35
WILSON
2N
D
38 26 FLORENCE 22 - S.S. Blinky Jr. Bldg.
23 - Shonessy House
3R
D
47 24 - William T. Day House

AMARILLO
27 36
LOVE
25 - Stone Church
PINAL

6TH
A

26 - Rebecca Dallis School House

OP
IC

27 - Gus Kratzka House

TT N D
AR

OM
6TH
24
BO P A

50
M

28 - Pettyman's Market
TO

10 29 - Craftsman Residence
49
5TH

53 5TH
30 - Church of Christ

COOLIDGE
42
3R

CAMERON
54 37
D

LINCOLN
18 31 - Casa Grande Dispatch
31
ES

32 - CGUHS Old Main

56
D

O
CE

2N 4T H

CH
43
D
30 33 - First Baptist Church
ER

CA

GALLOWAY
7
M

6
PI
L

48 34 - Art Moderne House

GRANDE
AL
E

CASA

ROOSEVELT
IN

SH

17 35 - Vasquez House
ER

MORRISON
AR

12 28
3RD

TREKELL
TH

3RD
51 46 E
M

36 - William Cox House

EC
AK
KA

5 16

LT
YL

AMARIL LO
37 - Church of Nazarene
13 23
TO
DR

1S
55

BROWN
T
M
AI M
38 - Casa Grande Women's Club
2N
N AI
N 2ND 2ND 39 - Southside Elementary School
N

1S
TO

D
T
40 - Lincoln Hospital
40
CA
SA

TT N D

41 - Period Revival House

LA
OM
BO P A

IL

42 - Meehan and Gaar House

OS
TO

RM

1ST 1ST
43 - Stone Warehouse
HE

3R
D
44 - Central Credit Association
L
AL

ROOS EVELT
SH

45 - White House

FRONTAGE
TREKELL
AR

VISTA
ALTA
E

11 46 - St. Anthony's Rectory

M

AK

GR AN DE
CE

CASA
O

EC
YL
CH

47 - Casa Grande Hospital

RE N

LT
DR

DOAN
CA

4T
TO
PI

48 - Cruz Trading Post

FL O

H
ASH DOAN DOAN

49 - Bien and McNatt House

BURGESS

50 - Paramount Theater
ELLIOTT

HERMOSILLA

39 JI 51 - Kochsmeier House

PUEBLO
M
M CAM PB EL
BEECH IE
KE
L
52 - Briggs Jewelers
R
R
53 - Valley National Bank
B E LL
54 - Ward's Variety Store

²
CAM P

55 - Stone Bungalow
56 - V.W. Kilcrease Building
Evergreen Historic District Historic Properties Buildings
0 0.05 0.1 0.2 0.3
Miles
Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye,
Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS,
AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community

Chapter 3 | Element Historic Preservation 213

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214 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

VISION: A COMMUNITY THAT VALUES AND PROTECTS HISTORIC RESOURCES.
Casa Grande has created an historic preservation program to achieve the following:
• Protect and enhance the landmarks and historic districts which represent distinctive elements of
Casa Grande’s cultural, historical, and architectural heritage.
• Foster civic pride in the accomplishments of the past.
• Protect and enhance Casa Grande’s attractiveness to visitors and stimulate the economy.
• Ensure harmonious, orderly, and efficient development by providing a mechanism to resolve
conflicts between preservation and growth.

GOAL HP-1: Develop and maintain an effective municipal

Historic Preservation Program.
Action Step HP-1.1: Provide financial resources and staff time
to support the program’s current and planned expanded
activities.
Action Step HP-1.2: Prepare an annual work plan for the Historic
Preservation Program. Determine staff support, consultants
and funding needed to implement the proposed work. Include
the information as part of the annual budgeting process.
Action Step HP-1.3: Plan for the expansion of staff support for
the Historic Preservation Program as the designated historic
resource population increases and/or the HP Commission
undertakes additional activities.
GOAL HP-2: Integrate the work produced by the Historic
Preservation Commission into the decision-making
processes of the City.
Action Step HP-2.1: Ensure that Historic Preservation
Commission members and staff supporting the HP Program are
knowledgeable about principles and practices.
Action Step HP-2.2: Provide training opportunities to develop
the expertise and skills of HP Commission members.
Action Step HP-2.3: Expand the technical assistance available
to owners of historic properties through the HP Program such
as offering workshops. Topics could range from basic home
maintenance and repair to improving energy efficiency in
historic buildings.
Saint Anthony’s Church

Chapter 3 | Historic Preservation 215

 GOAL HP-3: Build community-wide awareness and
support for the City’s Historic Preservation efforts.
Action Step HP-3.1: Work with the City’s Public Information
Office to develop a plan to promote historic properties and
inform residents about the Program.
Action Step HP-3.2: Develop a plan for working with all available
media platforms to publicize information about historic
resources, endangered properties, and HP issues.
Action Step HP-3.3: Develop materials geared to a popular
audience about Casa Grande’s historic properties and distribute
to local hotels and motels for visitors.
GOAL HP-4: Expand the survey and designation activities
of the Historic Preservation Program.
Action Step HP-4.1: Provide City Council members and
management periodic updates on survey and designation
activities and with tours of properties and areas that are being
considered for historic designation.
Action Step HP-4.2: Identify designation priorities based on
community concerns, known threats to historic properties,
and opportunities for expanded support for the Historic
Preservation Program.
Action Step HP-4.3: Update and maintain the Evergreen Historic
Resources inventory and landmark properties by adopting a
regular survey inventory and evaluation program.
Action Step HP-4.4: Photograph landmark and contributing
structures every two years.
GOAL HP-5: Improve municipal protections and incentives
available for designated historic properties.
Action Step HP-5.1: Formally acknowledge the importance of
balancing Historic Preservation regulations with incentives
to encourage preservation and support public-private
partnerships to support the City’s goals.
Action Step HP-5.2: Expand technical assistance to the owners
of historically significant buildings such as offering workshops,
addressing topics from basic home maintenance and repair to
improving energy efficiencies in historic buildings.

216 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step HP-5.3: Explore funding opportunities to support
programs for historic rehabilitation, maintenance, emergency
acquisition of endangered properties, and technical services for
owners and historic districts.
GOAL HP-6: Protect historic and cultural resources from
demolition and inappropriate alterations.
Action Step HP-6.1: Promote adaptive reuse and revitalization
efforts for historically significant commercial and residential
buildings through a variety of incentives.
Action Step HP-6.2: Discourage the demolition or inappropriate
alterations of historic buildings.
Action Step HP-6.3: Ensure the protection of historic resources
through the continued enforcement of existing codes.

Chapter 3 | Historic Preservation 217

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218 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, NATURAL
RESOURCE CONSERVATION & SAFETY

OVERVIEW
The Casa Grande Planning Area is comprised of a multitude of
diverse and unique natural areas with a variety of terrain and
geographic features. As the City of Casa Grande continues to
transition from rural and agricultural land uses to a more built-
out and developed community, it is more important than ever to
utilize careful planning to minimize any adverse environmental
impacts. Improving air and water quality as well as preserving
natural resources should be considered important aspects that will
Fissure contribute to and sustain the community’s quality of life.

VISION: A COMMUNITY THAT PRESERVES THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT.

The natural environment within the Casa Grande Planning Area includes a wide range of scenic resources,
natural drainages, native vegetation, and wildlife habitats that can be preserved and enhanced as part
of the land use strategy and development process. In addition, the quality of life in existing and planned
residential areas needs to be protected from the introduction of potential environmental and health
hazards including noise, water, air and chemical contamination.

GOAL EP-1: Preserve the natural environment and

scenic resources within the Planning Area by ensuring
environmentally compatible development and protecting
environmentally sensitive areas.
Action Step EP-1.1: Promote development that is compatible
with, protects, and enhances scenic views and the natural
environment.
Action Step EP-1.2: Amend zoning codes to address the
preservation of significant scenic views.
Action Step EP-1.3: Adopt development and landscape
guidelines and standards that encourage the use of native
drought tolerant vegetation and appropriate irrigation systems.

Casa Grande Mountain

Chapter
Chapter333|Element
Chapter | ENVIRONMENTAL
|Environmental
Environmental
Planning,PLANNING,
Planning,
Natural
Natural NATURAL
Resource
Resource RESOURCE
Conservation
Conservation&&Safety
Safety 219
CONSERVATION & SAFETY
 Action Step EP-1.4: Adopt an environmental overlay zone, or
similar regulation, that acts to preserve sensitive landforms and
significant natural vegetation.
Action Step EP-1.5: Require new development to protect
wildlife corridors and habitats in areas known to have
substantial wildlife and/or endangered species.
Action Step EP-1.6: Where appropriate, allow for land use
density transfers on sites that are adjacent to riparian areas
(drainages). This allows land to remain undeveloped in order to
maximize wildlife linkages to natural open spaces, and higher
density development of land that offers less natural resource
potential.
Action Step EP-1.7: Develop a program to retain native plants
and encourage salvaging native plants that are to be removed.
Action Step EP-1.8: Limit grading on sites with slope more than
10% and use natural landforms and features as integrating
elements in project design.
Action Step EP-1.9: Develop water conservation programs and
design guidelines pertaining to low use water fixtures and
landscaping.
GOAL EP-2: Protect City residents and visitors from
environmental hazards.
Casa Grande Mountain Trail
Action Step EP-2.1: Ensure all local, state and federal
environmental regulatory standards are being met with regard
to hazardous materials use, storage, disposal, and clean-up to
protect the health of humans and the environment within the
City.
Action Step EP-2.2: Ensure the use of toxic chemicals, materials,
products, manufacturing, and processing operations comply
with the safe levels allowed under the relevant building and fire
codes.
Action Step EP-2.3: Ensure infill and redevelopment lands are
surveyed by the developer for contamination issues from
previous uses.
Action Step EP-2.4: Mitigate residential development in the
high noise areas created by the Casa Grande Municipal Airport,
interstate highways and railroad.

220 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

GOAL EP-3: Protect City residents and visitors from
climate related hazards.
Action Step EP-3.1: Promote the planting of shade trees near
high heat sink areas of sidewalks and parking lots in new
developments.
Action Step EP-3.2: Encourage the use of bioswales and other
low impact designs in developments in an effort to ensure
healthier landscape areas.
Action Step EP-3.3: Encourage developments to provide shaded
areas along pathways and integrated into entrances and
parking areas.
Action Step EP-3.4: Encourage the use of roofing materials that
reduce building heat retention, including but not limited to
solar, white reflective roofing, landscaped roofing, etc.
Action Step EP-3.5: Allow the use of alternative surface
materials, such as permeable paving or colored asphalt, for Environmental vegetation combined with building
surfaces that provide shade impact the ambient and
parking areas in place of standard asphalt. radiant temperatures that contribute to urban heat
Action Step EP-3.6: Evaluate the existing landscape code and island and heat exposure.
integrate ideas to assist in reducing the impacts caused by
climate related issues.

Casa Grande Mountain Scenic Corridor

Chapter 3 | ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, NATURAL RESOURCE 221

CONSERVATION & SAFETY
 VISION: MANAGE DEVELOPMENT IN FLOODPLAINS AND FISSURE AREAS.
As land is developed in the Casa Grande planning area, careful attention needs to be given to
developments located within special flood hazard areas. The floodplains in Casa Grande are typically
located along stream beds and washes that are typically dry, but which tend to flow and occasionally
overflow and create shallow backwater areas during large storm events. These flood hazard areas present
challenges for development. Many drainage constraints can be alleviated if the proper corrective drainage
measures are designed in conjunction with land development and public works infrastructure projects.
Another potential development constraint is earth fissuring that occurs when groundwater is withdrawn
from the underground aquifer, causing the land surface to settle and crack. Earth fissuring can create
public safety hazards and cause significant damage to buildings and infrastructure.
The Casa Grande Area Drainage Master Plan does not show any known fissures within the Casa Grande
Planning Area. However, since some land within the Planning Area has similar geophysical characteristics
(sediment-filled, overdraft of groundwater, and known land subsidence) a potential exists for fissuring to
occur. Additional geologic studies will be required to identify the potential locations, and the magnitude of
risk for fissures within the Planning Area.

GOAL EP-4: Protect residents from hazards associated

with FEMA floodplains, and potential fissuring areas.
Action Step EP-4.1: Coordinate with FEMA and Pinal County
Flood Control Office to ensure mapping of FEMA floodplains
and known flooding areas is current and accurate.
Action Step EP-4.2: Require mitigation measures or restrict
development in areas subject to flooding.
Action Step EP-4.3: Update the Casa Grande Master Drainage
Plan to address current known drainage problems, including
appropriate management of stormwater generated by existing
developments that do not retain their developed flows.
Action Step EP-4.4: Work with the ADWR and Arizona Geological
Survey to identify potential fissure locations and develop
appropriate mitigation measures.
Action Step EP-4.5: Require mitigation measures or restrict
development in areas subject to fissuring.
Action Step EP-4.6: Support efforts to minimize groundwater
pumping, particularly in areas subject to land subsidence.

Erosion caused by flooding

222 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 VISION: PROTECT AIR AND WATER QUALITY.
Air quality issues are not confined to the Casa Grande Planning Area. Development activities within the
Planning Area and within adjacent areas in Pinal, Pima, and Maricopa Counties have a cumulative impact
on local air quality.
Pinal County operates air quality monitors that record ambient concentrations of several air pollutants
including:
• PM 10 – Dust with particle sizes of 10 microns or smaller
• PM 2.5 – Dust with particle sizes of 2.5 microns or smaller
• Carbon Monoxide
• Lead, Nitrogen Dioxide
• Ozone
• Sulfur Dioxide
In 2012, due to violations of the particulate matter (PM10) Clean Air Act Standard, the EPA designated
a large portion of Pinal County that includes Casa Grande as moderate non-attainment (West Pinal
PM10) due to monitor violations of particulate matter (PM10). To address this issue, air quality rules were
adopted by Pinal County Air Quality Division to address the dust created by site grading and construction
activity in order to reduce emissions for the West Pinal PM10 Non-attainment area. The city continues
to work with Pinal County in efforts to reduce particulate matter (PMs) caused from dust generated by
unpaved roads.
Likewise, water quality issues are not restricted by municipal and planning area boundaries. In addition
to the subsidence and fissure issues associated with groundwater pumping, there may be an increase
in concentrations of undesirable elements in underground water supplies, such as arsenic and nitrates.
The EPA and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (AZDEQ) have established water quality
standards and monitoring requirements that water providers must meet for these contaminants.

GOAL EP-5: Meet or exceed all County, State and

Federal air and water quality standards, and ensure that
development patterns do not have an adverse impact on
air and water quality.

General:
Action Step EP-5.1: Encourage land development patterns that
do not result in degrading air and water quality.
Action Step EP-5.2: Require construction practices and methods
that minimize adverse impacts on air and water quality.
Action Step EP-5.3: Stay informed of current air and water
quality regulatory issues that pertain to both the Casa Grande Sacaton Copper Mine
Planning Area and neighboring jurisdictions to protect and
enhance air and water resources.
Action Step EP-5.4: Provide input on air and water quality plans,
programs, and projects in adjacent developing areas in Pinal,
Pima, and Maricopa counties.

Chapter 3 | ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, NATURAL RESOURCE 223

CONSERVATION & SAFETY
 Water:
Action Step EP-5.5: Develop state-of-the-art water reclamation
and re-use plans, programs, and infrastructure to reduce
groundwater pumping, and replenish underground water
supplies.
Action Step EP-5.6: Prevent contaminants from reaching any
streams, washes, and other bodies of water that feed into area
groundwater supplies.
Action Step EP-5.7: Continue to successfully implement the
City’s adopted stormwater practices and continue to meet the
State and Federal requirements.

Air:
Action Step EP-5.8: Designate appropriate land uses and
establish development guidelines that facilitate alternative
Water Reclamation Facility
modes of transportation, such as walking, bicycling, carpooling,
and public transportation, in order to reduce air pollutant
emissions.
Action Step EP-5.9: Implement a grading permit program that
requires re-vegetation or soil stabilization of graded surfaces,
and prevents the tracking of dirt onto City streets.
Action Step EP-5.10: Promote transportation systems that are
consistent with local and regional efforts to improve air quality.
Action Step EP-5.11: Pursue the paving of unpaved roads and
alleys.
Action Step EP-5.12: Pursue implementation of transit services
and ride-share programs identified in the Casa Grande and
Pinal County transportation plans.
Action Step EP-5.13: Continue to pursue implementation of
plans for non- motorized forms of transportation including
pedestrian facilities, bicycle facilities, and trail systems.
Action Step EP-5.14: Continue to work closely with the Pinal
County Air Quality Division to develop strategies that reduce
dust and contaminants.
Action Step EP-5.15: Encourage use of alternative fuel vehicles
and encourage developments to provide charging stations.
Action Step EP-5.16: Improve regulations that address the illegal
dumping of dirt, trash and debris on undeveloped land.

224 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.23:
3:23 AIRPORT Airport
NOISE CONTOURSNoise Contours

Noise Contours
65-70

70-75

75+

All values in decibals (dB)

Land Use Categories

Commercial/Business

Community Corridor

Downtown

Proposed Runway Expansion (2027) Large Mixed-Use

Manufacturing/Industry

Neighborhoods

Open Space

Rural

Other Features
Streets

Airport Buildings

Buildings

Version Date: 11/20/2020

Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,

GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus
DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS
User Community

0
² 0.125 0.25 0.5
Miles

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226 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
Water Resources

OVERVIEW
State statute requires that the Casa Grande General Plan include a
Water Resource Element that addresses:
a) The known, legally, and physically available surface water,
groundwater and effluent supplies.
b) The demand for water that will result from the future growth
projected in the General Plan.
c) An analysis of how the demand for water resulting from future
growth will be served by current water supplies and a plan to
obtain additional supplies if the known supply will not meet
the projected demand.

Agricultural Irrigation

This Water Resource Element of the General Plan has been developed in an effort to meet the letter
and intent of this requirement and to secure a sustainable water future for Casa Grande. Goals and
Action Steps are set forth in this element that will act to tie land use decisions to available water
resources and to ensure that there is not a gap between demand and supply.
This element acknowledges that our community, agribusiness and industries need water to thrive.
This Plan recognizes that our urban development has historically relied on groundwater, and our
agricultural sector on Colorado River water, both of which are expected to decline. Therefore, to
protect our quality of life, help meet future water needs and grow our economy, we need to:
• Reduce reliance on groundwater.
• Invest in sustainable water supplies.
• Use the water we have more efficiently.

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Water Resources

| Element 227
 Casa Grande is located inside the Pinal Active Management
Area (PAMA), which was designated in conjunction with the
approval of Arizona’s 1980 Groundwater Management Act
and which provides for the regulation and oversight of water
resources within the PAMA by the Arizona Department of Water
Resources (ADWR). The Act also directs ADWR to promulgate
decennial Management Plans for each of the Active Management
Areas in Arizona. These Management Plans set forth new and or
modified rules and regulations that impact allocation of water
resources and conservation programs. ADWR is currently in the
process of promulgating their Fourth Management Plan which
will be finalized in 2021. The management goal for the PAMA is
to: “allow development on non-irrigation uses and to preserve
existing agricultural economies in the AMA for as long as feasible,
consistent with the necessity to preserve future water supplies for
non-irrigation uses”. The recommendations set forth in this Water
Resources Element are consistent with the provisions of the Fourth
Management Plan for the Pinal AMA.

Central Arizona Project Canal THE KNOWN AND AVAILABLE WATER SUPPLY
Water service for urban development within Casa Grande is
primarily supplied by two private water utilities: Arizona Water
Company (AZW) and Global Water Resources (GWR). Most of the
city is within the AZW service area with only a small portion on the
northwestern edge of the city serviced by GWR. Within the greater
Casa Grande Planning Area there are several other small water
utilities that either currently provide service or potentially have the
legal right to do so. These companies include:
• Copper Mountain Ranch Water Company (owned and operated
by the City of Casa Grande)
• Casa Grande West Water Company
• Francisco Grande Utility Company
• Golden Corridor Water Company
• Casa Grande South Water Company
These water companies obtain the majority of their water supply
from groundwater wells although the Arizona Water Company has
an allocation of Colorado River water that they have used as part of
their portfolio of water supply.

228 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.24: AREA
3:24 PLANNING Planning Area Water Providers
WATER PROVIDERS

Water Providers

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Henness Rd
Trekell Rd

Peart Rd
Pinal Ave
Murphy Rd

Anderson Rd

Russell Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd

Estrella Rd
Corrales Rd

Signal Peak Rd
Ethington Rd
Arizona Water Company
Millrise Rd Millrise Rd
Casa Grande South Water
Gila River Company

Trading Post Rd
Indian Community Waverly Dr Casa Grande West Water
Company, Inc.
Ak-Chin Francisco Grande Utility
Val Vista Blvd Indian Val Vista Blvd Company
Global Water - Santa Cruz
Community Water Company
Woodruff Rd Woodruff Rd Golden Corridor Water
Company

McCartney Rd McCartney Rd
Other Water Service
Copper Mountain
CFD DAWS
Barnes Rd Rodeo Rd
Limited Water Service

Kortsen Rd Kortsen Rd
Other Features

Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln Planning Area Boundary

City Limits
Gila Bend Hwy Florence Boulevard
Interstate

Peters Rd Earley Rd

²
Selma Hwy Selma Hwy

Cornman Rd Cornman Rd

0 0.5 1 2 3
Hanna Rd Hanna Rd Miles

Version Date: 12/11/2020

Arica Rd Arica Rd
Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,
GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
IGN, and the GIS User Community
Shedd Rd Shedd Rd

Houser Rd Houser Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Tohono O'odham
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy

Henness Rd
Midway Rd
Murphy Rd

Estrella Rd
Russell Rd

Trekell Rd

Nation

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

Chapter 3 | Element Water Resources 229

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230 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Figure 3:40 reflects the amount of groundwater and Central Arizona
Project (CAP) water pumped by AZW during the past 10 years. This
data reflects that the water usage within the Casa Grande Planning
Area has remained fairly constant over this timeframe even though
development, population and service connections have increased.
This data also indicates that groundwater use has declined
substantially since 2015. This is due to AZW implementing its
plan to use all of its CAP entitlement by 2020. The fact that total
water usage has remained flat over the past ten years while the
population served has increased 12% indicates that the usage per
capita has decreased over this time. This per capita decrease can be
attributed to effective water conservation measures by residents,
businesses, and industrial users, a trend that should be encouraged
as a method of maximizing the water supply.

WATER USE PER CAPITA, PINAL VALLEY WEST (CASA GRANDE)

Figure 3:40 Water Use Per Capita, Pinal Valley West (Casa Grande)
Source: Arizona Water Company

This trend of stable water usage is further validated by looking

at the data for total gallons per capita per day (GPCD) as well as
gallons per capita per day for residential uses (Residential – GPCD).
The GPCD figures are calculated by taking the total water usage in
the entire Planning Area and dividing it by the total population of
the Planning Area. The Residential – GPCD reflects the total gallons
used by residential uses only. The data reflects that residential
usage is decreasing although developments with HOAs use more
water than those without.

Chapter 3 | Water Resources 231

 This difference is likely a result of the irrigation of common areas
that are typically present in residential developments with HOAs.
AZW has an entitlement of 8,884 acre-feet of Colorado River water
(CAP water) from the Central Arizona Project (CAP), Approximately
2,500 acre-feet of this CAP water is provided directly to a few
customers for non-potable uses with the remainder being
recharged and recovered for customers needing a potable water
supply. Casa Grande is the only wastewater provider in Casa
Grande. Casa Grande provides effluent to a few non-potable
customers with the remainder of the effluent being recharged
for future use. The agricultural uses within Casa Grande use a
combination of CAP water and groundwater pumped from wells
owned largely by three irrigation districts located partially inside
the Planning Area. In summary, the water supply for Casa Grande
for all uses is provided by:
1. Groundwater
2. Colorado River Water
3. Effluent
The withdrawal of groundwater for development purposes is
regulated and monitored by ADWR. The regulatory tool used by
ADWR for this purpose is the Assured Water Supply Program that
hinges on the approval of Certificates of Assured Water Supply
(CAWS). A CAWS indicating that there is an adequate 100-year
water supply is required for all new subdivisions with 6 or more
lots. Subdivisions with less than 6 lots, as well as other types of
urban developments that can be constructed on existing platted
lots and un-platted parcels, are not required to obtain a CAWS.
Vacant lots located within residential subdivisions that were
recorded prior to the requirement to have a CAWS and which meet
other specific ADWR criteria may be able to be developed without
the benefit of a CAWS.
The number of vacant residential lots that have the legal right
to obtain water service either as a CAWS subdivision, or as a
subdivision approved prior to the CAWS program, is important
to understand. It must be noted here that ADWR has currently
determined that the groundwater supplies in the PAMA are
oversubscribed and therefore they will not issue new CAWS until
the deficit is adequately addressed. However, this does not mean
that there cannot be any new development in the PAMA or in Casa
Grande. As shown in Figure 3:36 there are enough vacant lots in
Casa Grande with CAWS to sustain residential growth for some
time.

232 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 AVAILABLE CERTIFICATES OF ASSURED WATER SUPPLY (CAWS)
FOR VACANT LOTS

Figure 3:36 Available Certificates of Assured Water Supply (CAWS) for Vacant Lots (As of 8/1/20)
Source: City of Casa Grande

The pie-chart reflects the total number of vacant lots within the
Casa Grande Planning Area with CAWS. These lots represent the
residential subdivision development that can be accommodated
under the current CAWS regulatory structure.

HOW MUCH WATER IS NEEDED TO SUPPORT

FUTURE GROWTH?
To answer this question, we first need to determine the amount
of growth that is likely to occur. Although the timeframe for this
General Plan is ten years (2020-2030) an attempt has been made
to look beyond that timeframe and project the growth that is likely
to occur over the next 30 years. The population of Casa Grande is
projected to essentially double over the next 30 years. The specific
increases by decade is projected as follows:
Casa Grande
Year Change
Population Estimate
2020 57,518
2030 75,049 +17,531
2040 92,880 +17,831
2050 118,395 +25,515
Figure 3:37 Casa Grande Population Estimate Change 2020-2050
Source:

Chapter 3 | Water Resources 233

 To accommodate this new population the following number of
dwelling units will need to be provided:
• 2020-2030: 6,407 dwelling units
• 2030-2040: 6,519 dwelling units
• 2040-2050: 9,350 dwelling units
The existing vacant lots with CAWS will allow for the construction
of single-family dwellings to meet most of this demand. Other
types of residential development which are not CAWS dependent
(i.e., apartments, manufactured homes, park models, pre-CAWS
subdivisions) will provide residential products to meet the
remaining demand. It is safe to assume that most of this future
residential growth will occur with Planned Area Developments, or
other types of residential developments that will have significant
amounts of irrigated common areas. Accordingly, the water usage,
based upon current usage rates, would be 96 gallons per day per
person resulting in the following additional water supply needed
to support the projected residential growth:
• 2020-2030: 2,067 additional acre-feet/yr.
• 2030-2040: 2,103 additional acre-feet/yr.
• 2040-2050: 3,016 additional acre-feet/yr.
Residential construction requires water
In addition to residential development, additional water supplies
need to be provided for new commercial, office, institutional
and industrial growth. Figure 3:38 below reflects the amount of
additional non-residential development that is projected to occur
in those categories over the next 3 decades.
Casa Grande Projected Development Categories 2020-2050
Commercial, Office
Manufacturing & Industrial
Years & Institutional Floor
Floor Area
Area
2020-2030 850,000 sq. ft. 7,400,000 sq. ft.
2030-2040 930,726 sq. ft. 8,102,000 sq. ft.
2040-2050 1,134,533 sq. ft. 9,873,845 sq. ft.
Figure 3:38 Casa Grande Projected Development Categories 2020-2050
Source:

An accurate estimate of the water supply that will be needed to

support this new commercial and industrial growth is difficult to
predict as the water usage varies significantly depending on the
type and nature of the business/industry. The AZW water usage
of 198 gallons per day per capita (GPCD) does provide a metric
that can be applied to provide a rough estimate of the new water
supply demands that may be associated with all future growth
including residential, commercial and industrial development
assuming non-residential uses grow proportionately to residential
uses.

234 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

This approach indicates that the following additional annual water
supply will be necessary to meet water supply demands for all
types of future projected growth:
• 2020-2030: 4,263 additional acre-feet/yr.
• 2030-2040: 4,338 additional acre-feet/yr.
• 2040-2050: 6,221 additional acre-feet/yr.
The calculation of the additional acre feet of groundwater needed
to support projected growth represents a worst-case scenario. The
City and water providers will be taking steps to decrease the use of
groundwater by:
• New water conservation efforts that will reduce the daily water
use by all development types including residential, industrial
and agricultural uses.
• Use of effluent and grey water to meet water usage demands.
• Development of new water supplies.
• Limiting new industrial developments to those that meet new
water usage criteria.

IS THERE ADEQUATE SUPPLY TO MEET ANTICIPATED

DEMANDS?
It appears that there are an adequate number of vacant lots with
CAWS within the corporate limits to meet most of the demand for
single family homes (both detached and attached) for the next
30 years. Residential developments not needing CAWS such as
apartments, single family rental developments, manufactured
homes and park models can be served by AZW from existing and
new wells.
However, to reduce our dependency on groundwater, and to
extend the supply, new water conservation measures should be
put in place. Conservation measures can reduce the daily gallons
per day consumed by all users within the city, allowing the known
groundwater supply to be extended to serve more users.
In addition to conservation, the use of effluent should be used as a
tool to augment the water supply. Currently, the City’s wastewater
treatment plant produces an average of 4.5 million gallons (MGD)
of effluent daily of which 1.2 MGD is used for landscape irrigation
and industrial production purposes with the remainder placed
into a managed recharge facility. The wastewater treatment facility
has a design capacity to treat 12 MGD of influent. The additional
effluent that will be generated as a result of community growth
can play an important role to help support new development.

Chapter 3 | Water Resources 235

 Water Usage Assessment: Benchmarking Results
Benchmark Connections in Total Volume of
Connection Type Connections
(AFY) Exceedance Exceedance (AFY)
Commercial 1.032 12.38 23 840
Industrial 23 232.13 2 632
Single Family Dwelling 19,401 0.53 2,006 556
Commercial Irrigate 354 11.33 25 237
Multi-Fam/Master MTR 140 9.12 13 146
RV Park 13 61.14 1 88
Multi-Fam/Indiv MTR 522 2.28 5 72
Mobile Home-Master 24 22.86 3 38
Parks 21 23.27 3 38
Mobile home-INDIVID 955 0.66 68 29
No Service 75 3.16 7 28
Temporary Lodging 14 17.16 2 25
Figure 3:39 Water Usage Assessment- Benchmarking Results
Source: Matt Payne, WestWater Research

Conservation, the use of effluent, and augmentation with

additional water supplies should all be pursued to assist in
reducing the dependence on groundwater as the primary water
supply for new development and community growth. As the
benchmarking table indicates, select industrial, commercial, multi-
family and single-family uses may be able to implement additional
conservation methods that will bring them into line with expected
usage amounts resulting in significant water savings. It is likely
that these uses are exceeding their benchmarks due to inefficient
landscape irrigation and/or commercial/industrial processes.
This data suggests that conservation programs that target
specific land use types may be an effective strategy to reduce
water consumption. Water conservation programs should be
implemented by water providers as well as the City. These
programs should consist of a combination of education, water
pricing and regulatory approaches.

236 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

VISION: TO ENSURE THAT THERE IS ADEQUATE WATER TO SUSTAIN THE CITY’S
DESIRED GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT.
Our community, agribusiness, industry and businesses need water to thrive. Our urban development
has historically relied on groundwater, and our agricultural sector has relied on both groundwater and
Colorado River water, both of which are expected to decline. Therefore, to protect our quality of life and
help meet future water needs and grow our economy, we need to:
• Reduce reliance on groundwater.
• Invest in sustainable water supplies.
• Use the water we have more efficiently.

GOAL WR-1: Implement water conservation measures to

reduce the outdoor use of water.
Action Step WR-1.1: Create a program that increases public
awareness of the need to conserve water in order to ensure
that sustainable water supplies will be available to support
both existing and new development.
Action Step WR-1.2: Revise the existing Landscape Code
applicable to industrial, commercial, institutional, and multi-
family uses to ensure that the Pinal AMA Low Water Use Plant
List governs the selection of plant species, soil amendments
and water efficient irrigation systems.
Action Step WR-1.3: Evaluate and implement methods of
reducing water use associated with the irrigation of single-
family home landscaping, including:
1. Incentives for removal of existing turf grass.
2. Encouraging new landscape designs that include plant
species listed on the Pinal AMA Low Water Use Plant List, soil
amendments and water efficient irrigation systems.
3. Recommending Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions
(CC& Rs) that prohibit or limit the amount of turf grasses
that can be planted.
4. Limiting the use of large turf grass areas in the common
areas of Planned Area Developments.
5. Consider making a local amendment to the ICC Plumbing
Code to allow the discharge of gray water to irrigate site
landscaping.
6. Encourage the capture of rainwater as supplemental
irrigation for landscapes and gardens.

Low water use xeriscape design

Chapter 3 | Water Resources 237

 Action Step WR-1.4: Evaluate the landscaping at all municipal
buildings and facilities to determine if any changes can be
made to the landscape materials or irrigation design to result in
significant water usage reduction.
Action Step WR-1.5: Create a demonstration landscaped area
that can showcase how plant species from the Pinal AMA Low
Water Use Plant List and appropriate irrigation design can be
used to create attractive landscaped spaces.
Action Step WR-1.6: Publicly acknowledge and celebrate
landscape designs that exhibit significant water saving
characteristics.

PROJECTED WATER DEMAND AND POPULATION GROWTH

Figure 3:41 Projected Water Demand and Population Growth

Source: Arizona Water Company, Arizona Department of Water Resources, Office of Economic Opportunity, 2020

238 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

GOAL WR-2: Reduce the daily total water use per capita
(Total GPCD) and the daily residential water use per capita
(Residential GPCD) by 15% from 2020 levels.
Action Step WR-2.1: Identify the specific water consumption
activities that are causing some land uses to have water
consumption rates above the expected benchmarks.
Action Step WR-2.2: Work with users identified in WR-2.1 to
develop programs that will bring their water consumption rates
into line with the expected benchmarks.
Action Step WR-2.3: Focus industrial development efforts on
those which are not water intensive.
Action Step WR-2.4: Create a tool that can be used to determine
water usage implications associated with land use changes and
land development applications.
Action Step WR-2.5: Develop a cost-benefit approach to
evaluating the water costs to the economic benefit for land use
decisions.
Action Step WR-2.6: Explore the use of The Arizona We Want
Progress Meters regarding the water use per person data to
establish future water conservation goals and benchmarks.
GOAL WR-3: Maximize the use of effluent as an alternative
to groundwater in appropriate applications.
Action Step WR-3.1: Expand the use of effluent to irrigate
all landscape medians in streets and the landscaping of all
municipal buildings.
Action Step WR-3.2: Encourage new industries that can
use effluent in their processes in order to replace and/or
supplement groundwater.
GOAL WR-4: Develop additional water supplies to reduce
the dependency on groundwater from the Pinal AMA.
Action Step WR-4.1: The City should evaluate a collaboration
with appropriate public and/or private entities to bring
additional water supplies into the Pinal AMA that can be used
to support desired growth and development in Casa Grande.

Chapter 3 | Water Resources 239

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240 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

Map Figure
Map Figure 3.2: Certificates
3:25 CERTIFICATES ofSUPPLY
OF ASSURED WATER Assured Water Supply
Approved CAWS Areas

Midway Rd

Thornton Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Bianco Rd

Burris Rd

Trekell Rd

Peart Rd

Henness Rd

Weaver Rd

Overfield Rd

Toltec Rd
Pinal Ave
Anderson Rd

Russell Rd

Montgomery Rd

Cox Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd

Estrella Rd
Corrales Rd

Ethington Rd
Final Plats

Preliminary Plats

Condo Area with CAWS

Total Available CAWS Certificates in

Val Vista Blvd Val Vista Blvd Final Plats: 6,313

Total Available CAWS Certificates in

Preliminary Plats: 12,879

Woodruff Rd Woodruff Rd Total Available CAWS Certificates in

Condo Parcels: 3,098

Total Lots: 22,290

McCartney Rd McCartney Rd
Boundaries
City Limits
Rodeo Rd Rodeo Rd
Planning Area

Kortsen Rd Kortsen Rd
Other Features
Interstate
Clayton Rd Cottonwood Ln Major Road

²
Gila Bend Hwy Florence Blvd

Peters Rd Peters Rd

0 0.75 1.5 3
Selma Hwy Selma Hwy Miles

Version Date: 11/14/2020

Cornman Rd Cornman Rd
Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, Maxar,
GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,
IGN, and the GIS User Community
Hanna Rd Hanna Rd
Montgomery Rd
Indian Valley Rd

Toltec Buttes Rd
Sunland Gin Rd
Ethington Rd
Anderson Rd

Thornton Rd

Overfield Rd
Chichiu Hwy

Henness Rd
Corrales Rd
Midway Rd

Estrella Rd
Russell Rd

Bianco Rd

Trekell Rd
Burris Rd

Toltec Rd
Lamb Rd
Peart Rd

Chapter 3 | Element Water Resources 241

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242 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

ELEMENT
Energy

OVERVIEW
Energy is a vital infrastructure component of Casa Grande’s local economy and way of life. Policies
focused on energy efficiency and conservation are critical for Casa Grande’s future, important for
planning the community, and will be instrumental in improving the current energy environment
and creating a vibrant, sustainable city for generations to come. The Energy Element serves as
Casa Grande’s plan to promote energy efficiency and conservation, a reduction in overall energy
consumption, and the increased use of renewable energy resources at all levels in the community.
Historically, energy production and consumption has been driven by the use of fossil fuels, such as coal
and oil. However, it is well documented that fossil fuels contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
and the release of harmful air pollutants into the atmosphere. GHG emission levels can be impacted by
population growth, weather conditions, vehicular traffic, and building energy use patterns. Emissions
have a host of negative impacts on the environment and community health. These impacts can include
increased air pollution and associated respiratory illnesses (such as asthma), rising temperatures and
heat-related illnesses, droughts, and increased risks for wildfires.

US GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2018

Figure 3:42 U.S. Greenhouse Ggas Emissions Broken Down by Sector for 2018.
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration

Chapter 3Chapter 3 | Energy

| Element 243
 Figure 3:42 shows the percentage of overall GHG emissions that
were attributed to different sectors nationally. Community efforts
to increase energy efficiency, energy conservation, and renewable
energy usage in each of these sectors will help to reduce Casa
Grande’s contributions to GHG emissions and improve the City’s air
quality and health outcomes.
Strategies the City can use to reduce energy consumption and
GHG emissions in Casa Grande include:
• Promoting alternative fuels and electric vehicles in the
transportation sector.
• Promoting multi-modal transit options such as walking and
biking, and working to create a public transit system.
• Encouraging the use of renewable energy technologies –
especially solar – for electricity generation.
• Encouraging private sector industries to adopt green building
techniques to increase energy efficiency for construction,
operation and maintenance activities.
• Promoting energy efficient upgrades and less energy-intense
processes for commercial agriculture.
• Publicizing incentives and programs available to assist
commercial businesses with energy efficient upgrades.
• Encouraging residents to use energy efficient lighting and
appliances, and to invest in renewable energy technologies
such as rooftop solar panels.
As Casa Grande positions itself for new growth and development,
it is crucial that the City consider ways to promote sustainable,
energy-conscious growth. Building a cleaner, healthier community
and improving the quality of life for Casa Grande residents requires
proactive energy efficiency measures, greater usage of clean
energy, and overall reductions in energy consumption. Although
climate change is a global issue, there are local actions that the
City and its residents can take to mitigate the negative effects of it.
Successful energy planning requires local policies, regulations, and
ordinances in addition to guidance from regional, state, and federal
authorities. Encouraging residents and businesses to take part in
energy efficiency and conservation efforts will create a culture of
sustainable energy use.

244 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

VISION: ADVANCE ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION EFFORTS THROUGH
THE DESIGN OF CITY-LED PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES.
To ensure long-term sustainability of new development in the Casa Grande Planning Area, the principles
of energy conservation must be reflected in the City’s planning and design processes. The City plays a
vital role in planning a cleaner energy future by advocating the use of the tools, technologies, education,
information, and motivation needed to secure the City’s future energy resources.

GOAL E-1: Use regulatory and planning tools to prepare

the City for future energy efficiency and conservation
projects, as well as increased renewable energy usage.
Action Step E-1.1: Promote energy efficient land use patterns
that maximize the City’s existing energy resources and
infrastructure by limiting growth to Phase I Growth Areas.
Action Step E-1.2: Ensure that energy-related standards from
the most current International Building Code and International
Energy Conservation Code are reflected in City codes and
regulations.
Action Step E-1.3: Participate in state and federal energy
programs, and maximize the use of incentives for green
construction and buildings.
Action Step E-1.4: Identify major sources of greenhouse gas
emissions within the City and use the data to prioritize energy
efficiency and conservation projects.
Action Step E-1.5: Develop concrete goals for energy
consumption reduction and renewable energy production
targets.
Action Step E-1.6: Consider creating an Energy Efficiency Plan
that will document policies and incentives to promote greater
use of renewable energy, as well as outline an implementation
plan for achieving energy goals.
GOAL E-2: The City will play a leadership role in energy
efficiency and conservation as it leads by example in
the construction and operation of its public buildings,
services and facilities.
Action Step E-2.1: Seek opportunities to reduce the City’s overall
carbon footprint.
Action Step E-2.2: Use the Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification
system to guide and measure sustainable building practices in
the City.

Utility level solar

Chapter 3 | Energy 245

 Action Step E-2.3: Improve energy efficiency in existing public
buildings; employ appropriate, feasible LEED-certified practices
for operational and maintenance activities within public
buildings.
Action Step E-2.4: Assess the feasibility of adding renewable
energy systems – especially solar – to City buildings.
Action Step E-2.5: Seek partnerships to conduct energy efficient
infrastructure upgrades throughout the City.
Action Step E-2.6: Develop a green procurement strategy for
eco-labeled products and services, such as paint and office
supplies.
Action Step E-2.7: Consider collaborating with national
organizations – such as the National Renewable Energy
Laboratory – in their efforts to pursue eco-friendly public
buildings and facilities. Consider pursuing research, funding,
and other opportunities with such organizations.
Action Step E-2.8: Pursue public-private partnerships to help
fund and incentivize the use of renewable energy technologies
and green building/construction techniques for City-owned
buildings and vehicles.
Action Step E-2.9: Develop a system for monitoring energy
performance in City-owned buildings.
Action Step E-2.10: Consider participating in the Cities for
Climate Protection Campaign, a program administered by the
International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI).
Action Step E-2.11: Actively work towards creating and adopting
a Sustainable City Program; consult leading organizations such
as the U.S. Green Building Council and the ICLEI.
Action Step E-2.12: Seek and encourage opportunities for City
Staff involved in planning, parks and recreation, landscaping,
and building maintenance to become LEED accredited; offer
staff incentives for doing so.

246 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

VISION: LEVERAGE RELATIONSHIPS WITH GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, THE PUBLIC
AND PRIVATE SECTORS, RESIDENTS, AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS TO PRODUCE
COMMUNITY DRIVEN ENERGY IMPROVEMENTS.
Shaping Casa Grande’s energy environment to align with the City’s vision for a cleaner, more sustainable
future requires commitment and collaboration from community members and stakeholders. To achieve
resident buy-in for a clean energy future, the City should work with community partners to conduct
outreach and informational campaigns detailing the importance of energy efficiency and conservation.
Energy improvement activities that residents can undertake – such as the installation of rooftop solar
panels – should be encouraged and publicized. The City should also collaborate with stakeholders to seek
funding and incentives that can make energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy technologies
more affordable and accessible for all residents.
Casa Grande has a number of private sector developments that have incorporated innovative energy
conservation and efficiency strategies. The City’s Frito-Lay plant received a LEED-EB Gold Certification
for the facility as a result of energy efficient modifications to the existing structure and the installation of
a solar energy system. Other local facilities such as the Walmart Distribution Center and Cardinal Glass
Industries have also demonstrated a commitment to more sustainable practices, by adding solar panel
installations to their sites.

GOAL E-3: Work closely with stakeholders and regional,

state, and federal agencies to create more effective,
collaborative energy conservation and efficiency
practices.
Action Step E-3.1: Coordinate GHG reduction efforts with
other regional agencies and ensure that the City’s energy and
emissions reduction goals align with regional and state efforts.
Action Step E-3.2: Seek partnerships that provide assistance
to homeowners and business owners in achieving energy
efficiency for their properties.
Action Step E-3.3: Consult utility providers and other
stakeholders to assess the feasibility of implementing “smart
grid” strategies to increase the reliability and efficiency of the
City’s energy grid.
Action Step E-3.4: Continue to encourage utility providers to
bring forward new and environmentally sound practices to
conserve and secure the energy needs in Casa Grande.

Chapter 3 | Energy 247

 GOAL E-4: Provide clear guidance to support and
integrate long-term local and regional energy planning
infrastructure with land use plans.
Action Step E-4.1: Work closely with regional transmission
planning efforts within the Planning Area.
Action Step E-4.2: Future siting of electric transmission and
distribution lines, gas pipelines and merchant power plant
locations shall be accommodated through existing corridors
serving the City.
Action Step E-4.3: Provide clear guidance to local utility
providers on long-range land use plans to coordinate efforts.
Action Step E-4.4: Work with providers to ensure all new
electric subtransmission or distribution lines less than 60
kV are relocated underground throughout the City, where
appropriate.
Action Step E-4.5: Locate existing electric distribution lines less
than 60 kV underground as opportunities occur, such as in road
widening.
Action Step E-4.6: Continue to support energy efficiency
programs offered by the City’s gas and electric providers.
Action Step E-4.7: Continue to work diligently with energy
providers to ensure the City has more supply diversity to
accommodate future demand and growth and to achieve
greater price stability.
Action Step E-4.8: Continue to coordinate with electric utility
providers regarding existing and future programs to identify
potential energy efficiency and cost saving measures.
GOAL E-5: Strongly support private sector energy
conservation and innovative, environmentally responsible
programs and procedures.
Action Step E-5.1: Promote and provide incentives for existing
and new industries to improve sustainable practices by
implementing green building techniques for the design,
construction, and operation of their facilities.
Action Step E-5.2: Promote energy best practices being
implemented by local companies, and encourage other
companies to pursue similar sustainable improvements.

248 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step E-5.3: Consider introducing an awards program,
which recognizes environmental stewardship and energy
conservation by City businesses.
Action Step E-5.4: Encourage new and existing developments
to include site and building design elements – such as shade
devices, tree cover, and reflective roofing materials – that
reduce the urban heat island effect and reduce energy demand
and energy costs within buildings.
Action Step E-5.5: Encourage the use of energy efficient
processes in commercial agriculture to produce savings and
reduce environmental impact.
GOAL E-6: Advance environmental accountability and
integrated energy efficient measures in residential
developments.
Action Step E-6.1: Encourage new and existing residential
developments to implement energy conservation and
efficiency measures.
Action Step E-6.2: Work with existing HOAs to promote energy
conservation guidelines within their neighborhoods, and
remove any obstacles or outdated standards that prevent
positive energy stewardship.
Action Step E-6.3: Identify and encourage neighborhood
associations, community organizations, or other local groups
to promote energy conservation within neighborhoods that do
not have HOAs.
Action Step E-6.4: Provide support and incentives to new
Planned Area Developments and Master Planned Communities
that apply LEED principles of site selection, community
development, and green construction.
Action Step E-6.5: Support Pinal County’s strategy that a
percentage of all homes in developments larger than 100
dwelling units meet ENERGY STAR rating (as defined by the
EPA), or similar energy efficiency standards.
Action Step E-6.6: Encourage site improvements to optimize
energy consumption through actions such as solar orientation
of lots, additional tree shading, and where feasible, narrowed
street widths.
Action Step E-6.7: Strive to include energy efficient upgrades in
rehabilitation and revitalization projects in the City’s identified
revitalization areas.

Chapter 3 | Energy 249

 GOAL E-7: Increase resident participation in energy
efficiency and conservation programs.
Action Step E-7.1: Collaborate with nonprofits, community
organizations, neighborhood associations and other
community partners to increase public awareness of the
benefits of energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy
technologies, as well as the importance of mitigating climate
change impacts in the City through their daily actions.
Action Step E-7.2: Develop an outreach campaign that informs
residents of incentives available for residential renewable
energy usage, electric vehicles, and energy efficient home
improvements.
Action Step E-7.3: Promote the Weatherization Assistance
Program through outreach and marketing efforts. Encourage
qualifying low-income homeowners to apply for weatherization
assistance to increase home energy efficiency and decrease
energy costs.
Action Step E-7.4: Ensure that energy efficiency programs are
Residential Solar
accessible to low-income, minority, special needs, and elderly
populations in order to promote energy equity.
Action Step E-7.5: Seek funding opportunities to support
underrepresented populations in acquiring energy efficient
retrofits, weatherization, renewable energy installations, and
other home energy improvements.
Action Step E-7.6: Consider ways to expand energy conservation
and efficiency programs to include rental properties.
Action Step E-7.7: Educate residents about the benefits of
smaller energy efficiency upgrades such as more efficient
lighting and appliances, in addition to larger investments for
on-site renewable energy installations such as rooftop solar
panels.

250 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

CREATING A CLEANER, GREENER ENERGY
PORTFOLIO
Casa Grande’s energy portfolio has an impact on community
health, resilience, and the City’s competitive edge in the regional
market. As the City grows, it is important to ensure that its energy
portfolio meets the demand for energy usage in a reliable,
sustainable way. Diversifying the City’s energy mix increases the
reliability and stability of the energy grid. The City should seek to
implement policies that will keep energy costs low for residents
while pursuing bold transitions toward a more sustainable future.
Arizona has an abundance of renewable energy resources,
particularly solar energy. Given that much of the state experiences
over 300 days of sunshine a year, renewable energy growth in
Arizona will be driven by solar power over the next few decades.
As of 2019, solar energy made up nearly 7% of Arizona’s electricity
generation, and the state’s significant geographical advantage
means there is plenty of room for increased energy production in
the solar industry.
The state of Arizona has implemented a number of policies and
standards to promote renewable energy growth throughout the
state, such as the Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST),
which requires regulated electric utilities to generate 15% of their
energy from renewable resources by 2025. The state has also
established standards to promote energy efficiency and reduced
energy consumption within utility companies.
The state and federal government also offer financial incentives
such as renewable energy credits, tax credits, and equipment
rebates, which have helped shape the renewable energy market.
The Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE)
provides up-to-date information on current, active programs and
incentive offers in Arizona.

Chapter 3 | Energy 251

 ARIZONA NET ENERGY PRODUCTION BY SOURCE, 2020

Figure 3:43 : Arizona Net Energy Production by Source, 2020

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Power Monthly, 2020

Figure 3:43 reflects the five energy sources used to generate most
of Arizona’s electricity in 2020. Although nuclear and fossil fuels
still provide significant amounts of energy for electricity use, the
amount of solar energy in the state’s energy mix has increased.
Creating favorable conditions for solar energy production,
generation, and distribution will help further increase the amount
of solar energy used for electricity generation, decreasing the
carbon intensity of the state’s energy portfolio.

252 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 TOTAL SOLAR PERMITS PER YEAR, CITY OF CASA GRANDE 2010-2019

Figure 3:44 Number of Residential and Non-Residential Solar Permits Issued in Casa Grande over the Past Ten Years.
Source: City of Casa Grande

Figure 3:44 shows the number of permits approved for solar

energy systems in Casa Grande over the last decade. The figure
demonstrates an overall increase in solar installations for
residential and non-residential structures since 2010. The available
permit data indicates that approximately 15% of residential
homes in Casa Grande have solar installations. The City will seek
to increase this number over the next decade. Solar energy use in
all sectors has grown over the past decade, and this growth has
positively contributed to the City’s efforts to produce and consume
cleaner, more sustainable energy.
Out of 2,992 solar permits approved during the past decade, only
32 were for non-residential solar installations. This low number
suggests that the City can accommodate additional private sector
renewable energy usage and larger-scale renewable energy
projects. Utility-scale solar facilities are opportunities for significant
investments in clean, renewable energy and localized energy
production. These facilities are well-suited to large parcels in the
City’s rural land use areas, near major transmission lines. Promoting
utility-scale solar facilities in rural areas allows the City to reserve
prime manufacturing and industry areas for more intensive uses,
while ensuring that adequate space is available for renewable
energy systems. The City must continue to develop rural land use
policies that encourage the construction of large solar facilities in
appropriate locations, taking care to minimize environmental harm
and prevent negative impacts on the valuable surrounding rural,
agricultural lands.

Chapter 3 | Energy 253

 VISION: INCREASE RENEWABLE ENERGY USE IN ORDER TO PROMOTE CLEANER
ENERGY FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE.
Over the next decade, the City hopes to increase the amount of solar energy in its energy portfolio to meet
goals for a cleaner, more diverse energy mix. Although solar energy technology has a significant up-front
cost, the investment results in long term costs savings, as well as a reduction in fossil fuel usage and GHG
emissions. Encouraging residents and businesses to use solar energy is a way to promote clean energy
use in Casa Grande and make sustainability a community effort. Increased use of solar energy systems
will also create high-quality solar industry jobs in manufacturing, installation and operation, as well as
generate more economic growth within the City.
Policies and incentives to reduce the “soft costs” associated with solar energy systems – such as
permitting, inspection, and installation – can help make solar energy a more affordable, feasible option
for Casa Grande residents and businesses. The City can consider revisions to zoning codes, development
processes, and other regulatory tools that will reduce solar capital costs. Pursuing City partnerships with
organizations that work to make renewable energy more accessible will also benefit residents, especially
low- to moderate-income households that may face a greater challenge in acquiring solar energy systems.

GOAL E-8: Increase the use of renewable energy systems

– primarily solar – in both residential and non-residential
developments throughout the City. Strive to have 35% of
homes with on-site solar by 2030.
Action Step E-8.1: Seek funding sources and incentives that
residents can use to lower the cost of on-site solar installation.
Action Step E-8.2: Review the City’s zoning code, development
standards, and similar regulations to streamline the
development process for solar and other renewable energy
installations.
Action Step E-8.3: Encourage developers to design “renewable-
ready” buildings that are able to support future additions of
solar panels or other renewable energy technologies.
Action Step E-8.4: Seek ways to mitigate the initial cost
associated with the transition to renewable energy sources.
Action Step E-8.5: Encourage the incorporation of solar and
other renewable technologies into green building projects.
Action Step E-8.6: Encourage solar installations to be located
on buildings/sites in a manner that maintains views from the
street.
Action Step E-8.7: Encourage the development of utility-scale
solar facilities in appropriate locations.

254 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Action Step E-8.8: Consider amending the City’s zoning and
landscape codes to require utility-scale solar facilities to
incorporate environmentally-friendly landscape materials into
project designs to protect native animal habitats and minimize
environmental harm.
Action Step E-8.9: Assess the impact of proposed renewable
energy facilities on the City’s water resources, and develop
strategies to minimize water usage in the construction and
operation of such facilities.
GOAL E-9: Create educational resources to increase
public awareness of the benefits of solar energy and
simplify the solar application process, making solar
energy technology more accessible to City residents.
Action Step E-9.1: Develop a public guide to solar energy
installation that details design and development review
standards, installation requirements, permitting requirements,
and other relevant information.
Action Step E-9.2: Compile and publicize a list of available solar
programs and incentives using the City website, pamphlets,
and other outreach platforms in order to encourage residents
to invest in solar energy systems.
Action Step E-9.3: Assess the feasibility of creating a City solar
demonstration project – such as a community solar garden
or rooftop solar installation – on an appropriate City-owned
property, in order to enhance community understanding of
solar technologies and increase solar demand.

Chapter 3 | Energy 255

 VISION: CREATE MORE SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION PATTERNS BY SEEKING
WAYS TO PROMOTE ENERGY EFFICIENT TRANSIT OPTIONS AND DECREASING
FOSSIL FUEL USE IN THE TRANSPORTATION SECTOR.
The transportation sector accounted for roughly 50% of energy consumption and contributed almost 30%
of GHG emissions nationally in 2018. Reducing the consumption of fossil fuels in the transportation sector
is a way to create more sustainable transportation practices. The number of vehicle miles traveled (VMT)
is a factor that influences transportation emissions. VMT and resulting GHG emissions can be reduced
by creating more sustainable transportation patterns and promoting transit-oriented development that
emphasizes alternative transit modes (i.e. walking, biking, transit).
Accessible multi-modal transit options provide more energy efficient ways to travel, and should be a
priority in the City’s goal to create a cleaner energy future. In addition to building more sustainable
transportation habits in the City, multi-modal transit patterns benefit residents who do not have access
to personal vehicles and rely on other modes of transportation. Preparing Casa Grande for future mass
transit opportunities will also put the city in a better position to reduce reliance on automobiles and
create a less auto-dominant environment.

GOAL E-10: Strive to implement more sustainable

practices in the City’s transportation sector.
Action Step E-10.1: Promote transit-oriented development
patterns to encourage walking, bicycling, and the use of future
transit to reduce residents’ vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and
automobile reliance.
Action Step E-10.2: Encourage redevelopment and infill
throughout the City to maintain compact growth that reduces
vehicle miles traveled and encourages walking, biking, and the
use of transit.
Action Step E-10.3: Encourage mixed-use development to limit
the driving distance between housing, community amenities,
and City services.
Action Step E-10.4: Assess the feasibility of increasing the use of
alternative fuels in the City’s vehicle fleet; and seek funding and
incentives to support this effort.
Action Step E-10.5: Support the installation of additional electric
vehicle (EV) charging stations throughout Casa Grande to
encourage residents’ EV use and incentivize travelers to stop in
the City.
Action Step E-10.6: Encourage local employers to support more
sustainable commuting practices by promoting activities such
as biking and carpooling through company policies.

256 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

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Chapter 3 | Energy 257

CHAPTER 4
General Plan Amendments
 CHAPTER 4
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENTS
At certain times and in specific situations, the City may choose to amend the General Plan to ensure
the City is responding and addressing opportunities.
Amendments to the General Plan must comply with the state statutory requirements provided in the
Arizona Revised Statutes (§9-461.06).

Amendment Requests
An amendment to the General Plan may be initiated by a request from:
• The Casa Grande City Council
• The Casa Grande Planning and Zoning Commission
• The owner of a property within the City or its Planning Area,

Amendment Submittal
All requests to amend the General Plan shall be submitted to the City of Casa Grande Planning and
Development Department and shall be accompanied by:
• General Plan Amendment application
• Detailed narrative describing the reason for the amendment
• Response to the General Plan Amendment Determination Criteria
• Detailed map and of the location of the amendment, its current and proposed General Plan land
use designations, as well as the existing General Plan land use categories of properties within 1/4
mile of the proposed amendment, and;
• Legal description of the perimeter boundary of the proposed amendment location.
• Must be accompanied by a zone change request if applicable.

General Plan Amendment Determination Criteria

A determination to make a Major or Minor Amendment to the Casa Grande General Plan 2020 shall be
based on the following criteria:
1. Describe and detail how each of the General Plan Guiding Principles (from the land use element
section) are achieved with the proposed General Plan Amendment.
2. Describe how the proposed amendment enhances or has no net impact on future water supplies.
3. Describe how the proposed amendment enhances or has no net impact on mobility and traffic
congestion.
4. Describe how the proposed amendment enhances or has no net impact on the quality and
quantity of publicly accessible open spaces and trails.
5. Describe how the proposed amendment enhances or has no net impact on the natural
environment, including air and water quality.
6. Describe and detail how any of the general plan goals and/or action steps are achieved by the
proposed amendment.
7. Describe how the proposed amendment impacts the General Plan land use pattern. Provide
acreages and percentage of impact for each impacted category.

260 A Growing Horizon | 2030 Casa Grande General Plan

 Amendment Classifications
The City will classify General Plan Amendments into two categories, Major or Minor Amendment.

Major Amendments
The City of Casa Grande will consider Major Amendments to the General Plan once each calendar year
in accordance with a schedule posted on the City’s web page. Major amendments will be required
to follow the State statutes (9-461.06) regarding the public hearing and notification process, this will
include Planning Commission and City Council action.

Minor Amendments
Minor Amendments to the General Plan may be considered at any time during the calendar year. Minor
amendments shall seek a recommendation from the Planning Commission followed by a hearing and
decision by the Mayor and City Council. Notification efforts shall be required to meet State statutes (9-
461.01).

Minor vs. Major General Plan Amendment Determination

Criteria
Any proposed amendment to the text or contents found within the General Plan that does not alter
the land use category shall be classified as a Minor Amendment
General Plan amendments less than 10 acres, regardless of land use category, shall be classified as a
Minor Amendment.
General Plan amendments resulting in a change from the Phase II Growth Area into the Phase I Growth
Area that do not modify the land use category are to be classified as a Minor Amendment.
The criteria for categorizing an amendment Major or Minor is primarily based on the potential to
increase and/or impact the intensity of the land use. Please refer to the determination matrix for any
amendments that propose a change of land use category.

MINOR VS. MAJOR GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT MATRIX

FROM
Open Community Commerce Manufacturing Large
Rural Neighborhoods Downtown
Space Corridor & Business & Industry Mixed-Use
Open Space MINOR MINOR MINOR MAJOR MINOR MINOR MINOR

Rural MAJOR MINOR MINOR MAJOR MINOR MINOR MINOR

Neighborhoods MAJOR MAJOR MINOR MAJOR MINOR MAJOR MINOR

Community
MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MINOR MINOR MINOR
Corridor
TO
Downtown MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR

Commerce &
MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MINOR MAJOR MINOR MINOR
Business
Manufacturing &
MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR
Industry
Large Mixed-Use MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR

Figure 4:45 Minor vs. Major General Plan Amendment Matrix MAJOR MINOR

Chapter 4 | General Plan Amendments 261