Goodyear’s Transformation: A Thriving Community

Ever wondered how Goodyear came to be the thriving community it is today? Ranked by 24/7 Wall St. as one of America’s Top 10 Best Cities to live, Goodyear has evolved from a small farming settlement into one of the fastest growing cities in the country.

Originally inhabited by Native Americans, including the Hohokam, Goodyear was established in 1917 when 16,000 acres of land were purchased by the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company to cultivate cotton. With the national rubber shortage during World War I, the company witnessed the rising demand of cotton as a raw material in the production of tires, so it strategically set up a plantation to produce it. The area became known as “Goodyear Farms,” and was mainly a home for the cotton farmers.

Goodyear Best Neighborhoods

Growing and Evolving

The settlement quickly grew as more land workers arrived, and in 1946, the town was officially incorporated and given the name “Goodyear.” At that time, there were 151 homes, 250 apartments, a barber shop, beauty shop, grocery store, drug store and service station. . 

Throughout the mid-1900s, the city remained primarily agricultural, with alfalfa, cotton and other crops making up much of the local economy. But as time passed, people became more interested in moving to Goodyear due to its close proximity to Phoenix. 

What had been a quiet farming community was transforming as people chose to live in a beautiful rural area with convenient access to the city.

Challenges and Changes

Goodyear hasn’t been without its challenges though. In 1951, the city was hit by three floods, from which the city fully recovered. Thankfully, the area is not known for its natural disasters–another feature that draws people to live here.

Many changes came in the 60s, 70s, and 80s, including the construction of Interstate 10. This attracted more businesses and brought new people to the area, with new neighborhoods being created to house more residents. By the late 80s, Goodyear had evolved from a sleepy rural town into a flourishing suburban community. It was officially incorporated in 1986, and became a true city with its own services and government.

What Lies Ahead

Today, the city is thriving with a diverse population, from young professionals to families to retirees. Industries like healthcare, logistics, retail and manufacturing help to make up the backbone of the economy, and new opportunities are being explored every day. 

As Goodyear continues to expand, the city is committed to sustainable development that maintains a high quality of life for everyone. Master plans include supporting local businesses, enhancing public services, and expanding infrastructure. There’s also a commitment to preserve the city’s original rural character and rich history, passing all its best qualities down to future generations. Goodyear residents can count on the fact that the best for this city is yet to come.