DMA President Mayor Kate Gallego delivered her State of the City Address, reflecting on how Phoenix is the city of the future, where possibility is found in every corner. In her remarks, she shared her vision for creating a successful, sustainable, and safe Phoenix for all residents to thrive and live comfortably.
Mayor Gallego underscored the seismic impact of the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (TSMC)’s $65 billion investment in Phoenix, made possible by the Biden-Harris Administration’s CHIPS Act and her relentless pursuit of the opportunity for her community. The investment, alongside expansions by other semiconductor companies, will catalyze job growth and economic prosperity in the region, improve national security, and benefit underrepresented communities.
The Mayor highlighted the growth of Phoenix Sky Harbor airport as an essential economic driver through its increased international passenger numbers and expanded flight options. She applauded the airport’s recognition by the Wall Street Journal last year as the best airport in the country and outlined plans for more improvements, including a new terminal with net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
She emphasized the city’s commitment to sustainability, highlighting efforts to build a cleaner, cooler, and more equitable Phoenix through installing solar panels on residential homes, planting more trees, and expanding cooling centers. Mayor Gallego also addressed concerns with water resources, reaffirming that the city is not running out of water but is conserving better than ever and working to create a new supply.
Public safety remains a top priority for the Mayor, acknowledging the dedication of police officers and the city’s collaborative work with community partners to improve response efforts to mental health crises. Mayor Gallego also highlighted efforts to address affordable housing, including efforts with the Housing Phoenix Plan, which aims to create or preserve 50,000 homes by 2030, and other initiatives to streamline the development process and increase the housing supply.
Watch the Mayor’s full address here.
At a time when our rights, freedoms, and futures are under threat, Democratic Mayors are showing the nation what real leadership looks like.
