Glendale

Glendale Overview

Incorporated in 1910, the City of Glendale is located in the rapidly growing northwest part of Metro Phoenix and thrives as the hub of the West Valley. With a population of over 250,000 people, it is Arizona’s sixth largest city. Glendale is home to historic attractions like Sahuaro Ranch Park and entertainment facilities like State Farm Stadium, the Arizona Cardinals‘ nest and host of the big game in 2008, 2015, and 2023.

History

In the 1890s, a canal was built through the area of Glendale that supplied water to agricultural land. Settlers soon followed and Grand Avenue was established, running from Phoenix to Peoria. Glendale became an important agricultural center that shipped produce all over the country. The city attracted farmers and settlers from the Midwest and northeastern United States.

By 1912, Glendale had its first newspaper, The Glendale News, the same year Arizona achieved statehood. A 20-ton ice plant supported hundreds of railroad cars, allowing valley farmers to ship produce nationwide, while the city-owned electric light and power company energized the town. Although the sugar beet industry collapsed mid-decade due to droughts, Glendale quickly rebounded. The town transitioned from being known as “Sugar City” to “Garden City” as farmers shifted their focus to melons, lettuce, cotton, hay, and other agricultural products.

City Government

The Glendale City Council is made up of six Councilmembers elected from separate districts and the Mayor who is elected from the city at large.

Business

Glendale’s diverse economy includes advanced business services, aerospace and defense, manufacturing, education, health care, and signature entertainment. Major employers include Honeywell, Bechtel, and Lockheed Martin.

Sports and Entertainment: State Farm Stadium and Desert Diamond Arena attract millions of visitors annually, supporting local tourism, hospitality, and retail. Through these venues, Glendale regularly hosts high-profile events including the Super Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, Section Seven, and concerts by top artists, which generate substantial revenue for local businesses.

Tourism and Travel: A wide range of hotels, resorts, and event facilities cater to tourists, sports fans, and business travelers, making Glendale a key player in Arizona’s tourism industry. Westgate Entertainment District features many different dining, retail, recreation, and entertainment options.

Aerospace and Defense: As the largest fighter pilot training base in the world, Luke Air Force Base is a major player in the West Valley and Glendale’s economy, providing thousands of jobs and supporting local businesses. The entire region benefits from aerospace support services, including aircraft maintenance, manufacturing, and logistics, creating a cluster of businesses that cater to both military and civilian aerospace needs.

Advanced Manufacturing: Glendale has attracted several advanced manufacturing companies, particularly in aerospace, electronics, and medical devices. Companies are drawn to the city due to its skilled labor pool, transportation networks, and favorable business climate.

Access to Talent and Education: Maricopa Community Colleges, Grand Canyon University, and the campuses of Arizona State University contribute to a skilled labor force and provide training in healthcare, technology, management, and many other areas, supporting local industries and small business.

Transportation

Loop 101 (Agua Fria Freeway): Major north-south freeway in the West Valley, running through Glendale and connecting the city with Interstate 10 to the south and Interstate 17 to the east.

Grand Avenue (US 60): Diagonal route running northwest-southeast, connecting to Phoenix on the southeast, with Peoria and Surprise to the northwest.

Glendale Avenue: Central east-west route running through the heart of Glendale, connecting the downtown area to Loop 101 and neighboring communities.

Northern Avenue: Significant east-west arterial road running through Glendale, connecting to Phoenix to the east and suburban areas in the West Valley.