History - Peoria Chamber of Commerce

Proudly Serving the West Valley for Over 100 Years

Did you know the Peoria Chamber of Commerce has been serving Peoria residents, businesses, and other partners throughout the West Valley for over 106 years? Incorporated as a 501c6 nonprofit organization on June 30, 1919, the Peoria Chamber was the initial community resource for everything from telephones to trash and other core services now performed by the City of Peoria today.

If you are a current or former member of the Peoria Chamber of Commerce, former employee, or community member interested in contributing to the content on this page and building a robust account of our Chamber and regional history, click the button below and share with us!

A Look Back...

Look around and it is easy to see the growth happening in Peoria and the West Valley. An average of 200 people move to Maricopa County EVERY DAY, with the West Valley serving as a hot spot for development. As many of the business and community members of the region say, “It’s our time for the West Valley,” and we can all certainly see and feel it! In Peoria alone, the residential population has grown by approximately 10% with projected numbers to reach 207,499 by 2025.

Whether you are a native or transplant, look back at our History, where we started, and where we are headed as a Chamber to best support our expanding community.

1886

By supporting pro-business legislation at the local, state, and federal level, and promoting a Shop Local mentality, the Peoria Chamber is a primary advocate for business in the West Valley.

February 14, 1912

Arizona Becomes 48th State

June 30, 1919

Peoria Chamber of Commerce Formed
The early Chamber of Commerce operated the city’s domestic water system and helped operate the town until Peoria incorporated in 1954. The Chamber was established as a non-profit organization of the City of Peoria and has served as a catalyst for growth since its founding.

1920

SRP Begins Delivering Power to Peoria
The Salt River Project (SRP), established in 1903 by local ranchers and farmers, began with the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Dam to manage the Salt River's flow and support agriculture in the Salt River Valley. Over the years, SRP expanded its services, including the development of the Agua Fria Generating Station in Peoria, which has been operational since the late 1950s and continues to supply power to the region. Today, SRP remains a community-focused, not-for-profit utility, providing reliable water and electricity to over 2 million people in central Arizona, and actively supports local communities through volunteerism and assistance programs.

1952

Peoria Times Newspaper Formed The Peoria Times is a longstanding local newspaper that began serving the Peoria, Arizona community over 40 years ago. Originally established to provide residents with hometown news, community updates, and local voices, the paper has remained a trusted source of information. Today, the Peoria Times continues its mission by covering local government, events, and stories that matter to the people of Peoria.

1954

City of Peoria Incorporated
The City of Peoria was incorporated in 1954, elected its first in 1955, and was named “Rose Capital of the World” in 1956. The Peoria Chamber of Commerce shifted water and power operations over to the city. Since then, the Peoria Chamber has and continues to advocate for business, encourage the entrepreneurial spirit while proudly displaying patriotism, and promoting a diverse community with honor and integrity.

1994

Peoria Sports Complex Completed

June 20,2022

Rhonda Carlson starts as President & CEO of Peoria Chamber of Commerce

May 1, 2023

Chamber Secures New Office at 8715 W Union Hills Drive.

November 14, 2023

Peoria Chamber of Commerce Spearheads Amusement Tax Advocacy Case, Saving Small Businesses $1M in Tax Collection