While this shortfall could potentially hinder Arizona’s accelerated growth, it may not necessarily be a detrimental shift, argues Grady Gammage, former president of the Central Arizona Project.
As a result of this water deficiency, developers might no longer receive state approval to construct new subdivisions relying on groundwater wells, forcing them to seek alternative water sources.
This increased competition for water resources might elevate housing costs and dampen Arizona’s allure as an affordable destination.
Arizona’s booming towns: Maintaining Growth Momentum amidst Water Shortages
Despite the groundwater shortage alarm, stakeholders across Arizona strive to assuage investor anxieties and ensure the state’s water sufficiency. Gov. Katie Hobbs emphasizes that the groundwater decision will not affect any pre-approved projects or major urban development around the Phoenix area.
However, for places like Buckeye, one of the ten fastest-growing cities in the nation, the groundwater restriction might symbolize the advent of a new, thirstier era where unchecked sprawl into the Sonoran desert might not be sustainable.
