John

has written 2 SperlingViews. Currently, John is living in Surprise, AZ and has a little something to say:

Check my Surprise, AZ 08/20 posting Posted On: 8/20/2006 3:49:40 PM

In my opinion, Phoenix is the urban jungle that has good points and bad points, just like any other city. If you like warm weather, than Phoenix can be the perfect place for you. Even when it gets "too hot to trot" outside, unless you are transportation challenged, you will find that it is livable during the late June to August period. If you want to avoid the hot sun in the summer time, than simply become an early riser. As for traffic and air quality, this is subject to improve with light rail (possibly) and better transportation planning. If you live in the Central part of the city, you will be in pretty good shape. East Phoenix is the "place to be", especially the Northeast (closer to Scottsdale) with its mountain preserves. West Phoenix is the area most people liken to cheaper housing, but some consider it to be more gang-ridden. That is maybe the reason why so many families end up moving to the burbs'. YMMV.

Up and Coming Area! Posted On: 8/20/2006 11:51:42 AM

The Surprise, AZ area is a newer, up and coming part of the Metro Phoenix - Northwest Valley. This area was previously a farming community, but will soon be somewhat comparible to other Metro Phoenix areas: Gilbert, Chandler, ETC. I have lived in Surprise since 1999, and I will say that the population explosion was to be expected. It happened so suddenly! I am happy to report - that although our local Surprise Government could have planned for the future a little better, they seem to now be on track to get the City where it needs to be. In most of Arizona, at the present time, if anyone decides to reside here, he or she will have an opportunity to help shape/decide how this place will end up for future generations. It is still that NEW! As I drive to work every morning, I am reminded of this as I pass field after field of green crops land. The particular crop land parcels I drive passed are supposedly protected from becoming rooftops/businesses. You see, the farm land that is to our South, is the buffer for Luke Air Force Base! If you like "Suburbia" - you will probably like Surprise (and you will have a chance to shape a city). Just remember, from late June to August, it is HOT outside. Just like Colder parts of the country, you may prefer indoor activities when the weather outside is too much for you. Many people can stand to be "too hot" verses "too cold". You have to decide for yourself! I have many friends from all over the country. Why? Is it because I am a frequent traveler? NO. It is because I have met so many people from "Everwhere, USA" that have chosen to move to the Phoenix area. The majority have stayed and like it here. YMMV.