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21 October 2024
Located in the far West Valley, about 35 miles west of downtown Phoenix, Buckeye, Arizona, has made headlines as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. While its contemporary growth captures attention. Buckeye has a rich history, from starting as a small farming community to a bustling urban center.
Founded in the late 19th century, the Clanton family co-founded Buckeye, particularly Thomas Newt Clanton, who left Creston, Iowa, in 1877. This rural settlement thrived thanks to the Buckeye Canal. A key waterway that enabled irrigation and agricultural development in the arid desert landscape. Early settler Malie M. Jackson and partners began constructing the canal in the late 1800s, naming it after Jackson’s home state of Ohio. The Buckeye Canal was paramount in shaping the city’s early economy and lifestyle. It supported farming endeavors that attracted settlers to the region.
The name “Buckeye” is derived from the Ohio Buckeye tree, which produces distinctive nuts and serves as Ohio’s official state tree. Initially named Sidney in 1888, the town’s official name changed in 1910, influenced by the Buckeye Post Office that had already adopted the name. The city began to flourish, aided by advancements in transportation and the establishment of new businesses and buildings.
Incorporated in 1912, the city encompassed 440 acres of land. Over the decades, the city underwent significant changes, transforming from a canal town into a vibrant community. Despite this, it wasn’t until 2014 that Buckeye was officially recognized as a city.
Today, Buckeye spans approximately 640 square miles, making it one of the largest cities in the United States by area. As of 2023, its estimated population is nearly 110,000, with projections indicating that this number could soar to almost 300,000 by 2040. The rapid population growth can be attributed to various factors, including its appealing climate, affordable housing options, and proximity to major employment centers in Phoenix.
Despite its agricultural roots, much of the farmland is earmarked for urban development. This transformation presents challenges and opportunities as the city grapples with balancing growth while preserving its historic character.
As city continues to expand, the city faces challenges inherent to rapid growth, such as infrastructure demands, environmental sustainability, and the preservation of community identity. However, this growth also opens up opportunities for new businesses, recreational facilities, and educational institutions that enhance the quality of life for its residents.
The city is committed to addressing these challenges by investing in infrastructure and public services, ensuring that Buckeye remains an attractive place to live while honoring its storied past.
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