Today, Queen Creek is preparing for even more newcomers. The rapid expansion that
began in nearby cities in the 1980s continues today, and the town of approximately
24,000 citizens faces inevitable growth. It incorporated in 1989 to preserve the benefits
of rural life, while providing for managed change. Residents seek to preserve the
Queen Creek’s friendly, small town spirit, while providing economic and recreational
opportunities.
The largest industry by employment is educational services and health care and social
assistance. The next largest industry is the professional, scientific, and management and
administrative and waste management services. Figure 2‐7 shows the top employment
industries in Queen Creek.
Figure 2-7
Top Industries by Employment in Queen Creek: 2012–2016
Queen Creek
MANUFACTURING
1,311
FINANCE AND INSURANCE, AND REAL ESTATE …
RETAIL TRADE
1,357
1,495
PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC, AND …
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES, AND HEALTH CARE …
0
1,789
2,929
500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500
Source: Selected Economic Characteristics, American Community Survey 5‐year Estimates, 2012‐2016
2.5 Current Development Overview Surrounding
AZARNG Sites
Most of the land within the JLUS Project Area is undeveloped or used for agricultural
purposes. The Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) manages a large amount of the
land that is held as Arizona State Trust land, which is one reason it remains undeveloped.
The Arizona State Land Department’s mission is to:
Manage State Trust lands and resources to enhance value and optimize
economic return for the Trust beneficiaries, consistent with sound business
management principles, prudent stewardship, and conservation needs
supporting socio‐economic goals for citizens here today and future
generations. To act in the best interest of Trust for the enrichment of the
beneficiaries and preserve the long term value of the State’s Trust lands.
2-26
Community Profiles