Phoenix, AZ - City Profiles by NJOYAZlife.com

Phoenix is the largest and most populous city in Arizona. It is also the state capital and the largest state capital in the United States in terms of population. It is the region's primary cultural, economic, and financial center, while its international airport is a major transportation hub. The city's metropolitan area is also known by its nickname, "The Valley of the Sun" or the shortened "The Valley," because the city is surrounded by mountains on all sides.

The city is currently the fifth largest city in the United States in terms of population with a 2007 estimated population of 1,552,259. Its city proper is the tenth largest for land area in the United States at 517 square miles. As of 2008, the Phoenix Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) was the thirteenth largest in the United States, with an estimated population of 4,579,427.

Phoenix has 4 major league teams In Greater Phoenix, you'll find everything from world-class hotels and resorts and fine dining to exhilarating adventure, breath-taking golf courses, trendy shopping, modern nightlife and enriching culture.

Phoenix is also a sports-lovers' paradise, playing host to four major league sports teams: Phoenix Suns Basketball team, Arizona Cardinals Football team, Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team, and Phoenix Coyotes hockey team. There are also many locations throughout the Valley that host spring training for other major league baseball teams.

HISTORY

The history of Phoenix as a city begins with Jack Swilling, an American Civil War veteran who had come west to seek wealth in the 1850s. On an outing in 1867, Swilling observed the abandoned river valley and considered its potential for farming, much like that already cultivated by the military further east near Fort McDowell. The terrain and climate were optimal; only a regular source of water was necessary. The existence of the old Hohokam ruins, showing clear paths for canals, made Swilling imagine new possibilities.

Swilling had a series of canals built which followed those of the ancient Native American system. A small community formed that same year about 4 miles (6 km) east of the present city. It was first called Pumpkinville due to the large pumpkins that flourished in fields along the canals. Swilling, a former Confederate soldier, wanted to name the city "Stonewall," after General Stonewall Jackson. Others suggested the name of "Salina." However, neither name was supported by the community. Finally, Lord Darrell Duppa suggested the name "Phoenix," as it described a city born from the ruins of a former civilization.

The coming of the railroad in the 1880s was the first of several important events that revolutionized the economy of Phoenix. Merchandise now flowed into the city by rail instead of wagon. Phoenix became a trade center with its products reaching eastern and western markets. In response, the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce was organized on November 4, 1888.

Image:Phoenix in 1900.jpg In 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt signed the National Reclamation Act allowing for dams to be built on western streams for reclamation purposes. Residents were quick to enhance this by organizing the Salt River Valley Water Users' Association to manage the water and power supply. The agency still exists as part of the Salt River Project. The Roosevelt Dam east of the valley was completed in 1911. Several new lakes were formed in the surrounding mountain ranges.

On February 14, 1912, under President William Howard Taft, Phoenix became the capital of the newly formed state of Arizona.

By 1950, over 100,000 people lived within the city and thousands more in surrounding communities. Over the next several decades, the city and metropolitan area attracted more growth.

PHOENIX TODAY

As the state capital of Arizona, many residents in the area are employed by the government. Arizona State University has also enhanced the area's population through education and its growing research capabilities. Numerous high-tech and telecommunications companies have also recently relocated to the area. Due to the warm climate in winter, Phoenix benefits greatly from seasonal tourism and recreation, and has a particularly vibrant golf industry.

Phoenix is currently home to seven major Fortune 1000 companies. In recent years many Internet companies have found a home in Phoenix. Internet companies like eBay,Google, AOL, GoDaddy.com, IPowerWeb and Easynews all have major offices located in Phoenix.

Phoenix has maintained a massive growth streak in recent years, growing by 24.2% since 2000. This makes it the second-fastest-growing metropolitan area in the United States.

WELL KNOWN COMMUNITIES

Arizona Biltmore Hotel The Biltmore District refers to an area surrounding the intersection of 24th Street and Camelback Rd. With it's high-priced office space and bustling night life, it is the equivilant of the "Wilshire Distrct" in Los Angeles. Homes and condos near this area are high priced because of the easy commute to downtown Phoenix's Central Ave - the heart of Phoenix and the location of most of our high-rise office towers.

It was named the "Biltmore District" because the luxuriuos Arizona Biltmore Hotel and Golf Resort is in that area. This Phoenix landmark has pampered guests since the 1920s. Its grounds and golf courses are surrounded by some of the most exclusive homes in the Valley.

Surrounding the Biltmore Golf Course, you will also find the exclusive "Millionaire Row," with beautiful custom homes. For a great afternoon, have lunch at the Biltmore and take a drive through the meandering Biltmore Circle Dr to see the homes - it's ungated and easy to drive.

Arcadia District - Phoenix, AZ East of the Biltmore area is the Arcadia District. Located approximately from 48th Street to 64th St, Arcadia contains well-kept homes on large lots. Built on former citrus groves, Arcadia is known for well-irrigated, lush mature landscaping. Here, yards still prominently feature orange, lemon and grapefruit trees as reminders of the area's past. Many homes in Aracadia are older, smaller homes, but their large grassy lots and mature landscaping make them irresistable to those who want to tear down the older homes and build large custom homes. Much of Aracadia has been rebuilt this way, making it some of the most expensive real estate in Phoenix.

Phoenix Population: 1,552,259

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