The Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce announced its plan to encourage residents to support Proposition 479, which will fund various transportation projects throughout Maricopa County, including Surprise and the entire West Valley.

“Investing in transportation infrastructure is a strategic way to boost economic growth and enhance our quality of life,” said Raoul Sada, president and CEO of the Chamber. “It’s a win-win for both the economy and residents.”

Sada said the ad campaign plans will mobilize the chamber’s grass-roots supporters and will include social media ads, live Facebook streams, action alerts, billboard ads and emails to more than 10,000 Chamber constituents.

Proposition 479 continues an existing, dedicated half-cent sales tax in Maricopa County to fund transportation. A “yes” vote extends the tax until 2045. A “no” vote will discontinue it at the end of 2025. A 20-year continuation of the tax is projected to generate $14.9 billion in revenues to fund freeways, transit, street projects and more.

Sada said that over the next 20 years, Proposition 479 will benefit Maricopa County, including Surprise, Sun City, Sun City West, El Mirage, Waddell, Wittmann, and Youngtown, by improving and expanding highways and freeways, funding local street projects, enhancing mass transit and reducing commute times.

The Chamber expects this to assist local businesses and boost the economy.

“It will also give residents quicker and better access to jobs, education, and healthcare,” Sada said.