Sacaton Market Breaks Ground in District 3

Velia Moncada

Gila River Indian News

More than 120 people — including staff from the Wild Horse Pass Development Authority (WHPDA), tribal dignitaries, construction partners and Gila River Indian Community members — gathered for the groundbreaking of the highly anticipated Sacaton Market at the southeast corner of South Ocotillo Drive and Bluebird Road in District 3 at 10 a.m. Dec. 5.

The 24,000-square-foot Sacaton Market, created and built by RSP Architects and Alcorn Construction, will sell produce and other groceries from local distributors. It also will include a fueling station, laundromat, and seating within a desert-inspired design.

However, the new market will offer more than food to nourish the Community.

“This market will not only serve as a hub for commerce but will also be a catalyst for social cohesion fostering a sense of unity and pride in our Community,” said WHPDA Director of Operations Suzanne King, District 6.

King extended a warm welcome to fellow Community members and leaders and recognized the commitment of council members who helped bring the Sacaton Market to fruition.

“This is something that’s been needed here,” said Lt. Gov. Monica Antone, adding that she recalled when the Sacaton Market was just an idea in the minds of former council members.

Lt. Gov. Antone thanked everyone who contributed to the project for setting aside their differences for the benefit of the Community. Because of their hard work and persistence, the new grocery store and fuel station is expected to open by the end of 2024.

“It is the start of something that has been long-awaited,” said Kristin Herrera, District 6. “I am really proud and really appreciate how the Community has grown,”

She explained that as a child growing up in District 6, she witnessed fellow Community members struggling with transportation to gather groceries. Herrera added she’s excited for the new market and the fact that the Community is expanding its resources.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the items they will have in there,” said LaQuinta Allison, District 4. She said that currently, the GRIC Market in District 3 has a limited selection of groceries and she still must drive outside of the Community to purchase the items she is looking for. She added, “I hope this one has a deli.”

For more information about the Sacaton Market, please contact the Wild Horse Pass Development Authority at https://wildhorsepass.com/development/.