Communities – Arizona Ascent

Communities

Peoria, Arizona: The City of Opportunity and Lifestyle

Peoria, Arizona, was once a quiet suburban retreat, but today, it’s a city on the rise. With its population growing by 5.2% since 2020, Peoria has transformed into one of the Valley’s most desirable places to live and work. In 2025, Peoria boasts a growing community of approximately 201,000 residents, all drawn by the city’s booming economy, top-notch schools, affordable living, and rich quality of life. It’s no wonder that Peoria is not just growing—it’s flourishing.

Communities

The Phoenix Film Festival Celebrates 25 Years of Independent Filmmaking

When most people think of the film industry, Hollywood is the first place that comes to mind. However, our state of Arizona is shifting that view. From March 27th to April 6th, I had the privilege of attending the iconic Phoenix Film Festival for the third time. The Phoenix Film Festival turned 25 this year, which made this year’s festival all the more exciting.

Communities

Scottsdale’s Big Bet: Axon’s $1 Billion Project Sparks Hope and Controversy

Near Hayden Road and Loop 101, the future of Scottsdale is under construction — at least in theory — and with it, one of the most hotly contested debates the city has faced in years. On April 18, 2025, Governor Katie Hobbs signed Senate Bill 1543 into law, a move that cleared the path for Axon Enterprise Inc.’s $1 billion mixed-use development and, at the same time, overruled a local referendum drive that aimed to stop the project before the first shovel hit the dirt.

The Curve Unbound: Arizona’s Road to a New Dawn

The Broadway Curve, one of Arizona’s most heavily traveled freeway corridors, has entered a new phase. What was once a high-congestion zone on Interstate 10 between Phoenix and Tempe is now a more streamlined, efficient system thanks to strategic infrastructure enhancements completed by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). On February 12, 2025, new general-purpose lanes opened from I-17 near Sky Harbor Airport to Baseline Road eastbound, and from US 60 to 32nd Street westbound. These additions significantly reduced bottlenecks and improved flow across the corridor. Then, on April 10, high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes opened between I-17 and US 60, offering carpoolers and transit users greater efficiency. Additionally, a new flyover bridge now directs westbound I-10 traffic to northbound SR 143, and southbound SR 143 to eastbound I-10—minimizing lane-changing conflicts and improving ramp access.

Communities

Reaching for the Stars: The International Dark Sky Discovery Center

In the heart of Fountain Hills, Arizona, a groundbreaking initiative is underway that promises to transform the way we experience and understand the cosmos. The International Dark Sky Discovery Center (IDSDC), currently under construction, is poised to become a premier destination for astronomy enthusiasts, educators and tourists alike. With its strategic location, state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to STEM education, the IDSDC aims to inspire a deeper appreciation for the night sky and the importance of preserving it.

Communities

The East Valley’s Tourism Boom: Exciting New Attractions Coming in 2025

By Ava Marie LaMonica, Senior Editor The East Valley, a vibrant region in the southeastern Phoenix metropolitan area, is undergoing a tourism revolution. Comprising Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, and Tempe, this…

Axon’s Scottsdale Showdown: A Fight for Arizona’s Ambition

Scottsdale might be about to lose one of its biggest success stories. Axon Enterprise Inc: the $43 billion company behind Tasers and police body cameras is dangling a warning in front of the State of Arizona. Approve our vision for a world-class headquarters, or we might pack up and leave.

Communities

The Vanishing Neighborhoods: When Vacation Rentals Squeeze Out Residents in Northern Arizona

The vermillion sunsets that paint the sky over Sedona, the towering pines whispering secrets in Flagstaff's high country, the historic charm of Williams. These are the images that draw millions to Northern Arizona each year. But behind the picture-postcard beauty, a crisis is brewing, threatening the foundation of these communities. It's a story of vanishing neighborhoods, soaring housing costs, and a battle for the soul of towns caught between the allure of tourism dollars and the desperate need for local homes.

Communities

Show Low’s Big Leap: How a Small Town is Shaping a Bold Future

Mountains, lakes, and streams. The forests of the White Mountains and the Mogollon Rim. Four seasons of scenic beauty: meadows of wildflowers in the spring, cool, refreshing summers, the changing colors of fall, and crisp winters of freshly fallen snow. Sitting at an elevation of 6,400 feet, Show Low has long been a getaway for outdoor enthusiasts, bringing visitors to the area for its outdoor recreational opportunities. However, to build a future that does not solely depend on tourism, the city has a strategic vision defined by economic diversification, innovation, and community growth.

Communities

Honoring Our Heroes: The Mission of Honor Flight Arizona

Since 2009, Honor Flight Arizona has served as a powerful force for gratitude, allowing Arizona veterans to experience a journey of recognition and healing. This nonprofit organization is part of the National Honor Flight Network, transporting over 300,000 veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials that honor their service.

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