It is no wonder why eco-tourism plays a significant role in Carefree’s future economic development. Positioned between the stunning landscapes of Spur Cross Ranch, which the Town of Carefree made significant financial contributions to preserve, and the desert oasis of Bartlett Lake, there is no letup of traffic coming through Carefree year ‘round.
The idea of “seasonality” is fading. Consistent traffic through the Town allows opportunities for our business sector to capture the critical mass of customers already enjoying the indelible landscapes, breathtaking views and easy access to the lakes in the summer.
For several years the Town of Carefree has strategically invested in infrastructure and unique events/experiences to build traffic within the Town Center. As a result of these public investments, private investment is starting to excel within the community. From the recent extensive Basha’s remodel, to the Spanish Village face lift and emerging new tenants and restaurants, to the pending new ownership of the Carefree Resort, there is a lot of positive synergy building within Carefree.
A recent sale of the northeast corner at the major intersection of Carefree Highway and Cave Creek Road, shows the promise of a “domino effect” starting to take place in and around Carefree and the driving force to create perpetual sales tax for the Towns’ sustainability.
The Town will continue to take an active role in seeking opportunities to forge mutually beneficial public and private partnerships to further cultivate the economic vision. Well-branded, restaurant concepts that offer a wider appeal to the trade area, unique events that complement the critical mass and sales tax driven land development will all contribute to moving the economic engine forward and allow Carefree to emerge as the next social and cultural hub of the northeast Valley.
Mayor Peterson
Carefree
