Proposed Pima Circle K location moved to the west side
By Jon Johnson
THATCHER, Arizona — Residents of Thatcher have reason to celebrate as significant infrastructure improvements and a new commercial development take shape at the busy intersection of U.S. Highway 70 and First Avenue. A state-of-the-art traffic signal and a modern Super Circle K convenience store are advancing, promising enhanced safety, smoother traffic flow, and convenient amenities for the community.
The project stems from a collaborative development agreement unanimously approved by the Thatcher Town Council in February 2026 with Circle K Stores Inc. This partnership addresses long-standing needs at the intersection while bringing a vibrant new business to the southwest corner of the site.
For years, town officials have sought to install a traffic signal at this location to improve safety, but approval from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) required demonstrated need from increased traffic volume. The proposed Super Circle K provided the necessary justification through traffic studies showing the additional vehicles it would generate.
Thatcher had been attempting to get a signal at the intersection for a number of years without success. The addition of the Circle K is the reason stated for ADOT finally caving and granting permission for the light.
Under the agreement, Circle K is funding key elements, including the design of the traffic signal, construction work within ADOT’s right-of-way (such as an eastbound right-turn lane), design and construction of storm sewer relocation, and related efforts. The Town of Thatcher is contributing by widening First Avenue north and south of Highway 70, installing a sewer tap to the property, constructing the traffic signal itself, and providing materials for storm sewer work.
Additional enhancements include a slight realignment of the highway to reduce the curve at the intersection, undergrounding overhead power lines, and relocating Southwest Gas facilities — upgrades driven by both aesthetics and long-term reliability. These utility improvements eliminate aging poles vulnerable to monsoon storms, reduce maintenance needs, and give the area a cleaner, more modern appearance.
Thatcher Town Engineer Tom Palmer, who is overseeing the engineering design, noted that road widening, turn lanes, and utility relocations are essential preparations for the signal.
“We’re designing the road, undergrounding power, and anticipating the light,” Palmer explained. “It’s a great opportunity to upgrade infrastructure and improve the town’s look and safety.”
The new Super Circle K will occupy about 3.5 acres and feature a larger format similar to the Circle K on Highway 70 in eastern Safford, but with added high-speed diesel pumps to serve semi-trucks on the south side of the property. Shoppers can look forward to a wide selection of fountain drinks, gourmet coffee, and fresh food options such as breakfast burritos, sandwiches, and salads, plus limited indoor seating for those who want to dine on-site.
Circle K has expressed interest in completing construction and opening the store to the public by the end of the year, though the ADOT permitting process could take around six months. The town’s work is targeted for completion within six months of Circle K breaking ground, ensuring the project moves forward efficiently.
This development represents a win-win for Thatcher: safer roads thanks to the long-awaited traffic signal, upgraded utilities for greater reliability and beauty, and a modern convenience store that will serve locals, travelers, and truckers along Highway 70. As construction progresses, the intersection is poised to become a safer, more welcoming gateway to the community.
Proposed Pima Circle K site moved to the west side of town
A franchise Circle K proposed for Pima has been moved due to the corporate super Circle K being constructed in Thatcher.
Due to proximity to the Thatcher corporate location, the franchise Circle K had to move its desired location on the east side of Pima to the west side, just west of 200 North (Tripp Canyon) on the northern side of Highway 70, according to Pima Town Manager Vernon Batty. The area is currently a cotton field.
Batty said the owners were moving forward with their next phase, as the west-side location had been approved by Circle K corporate. No timetable was given for the Pima Circle K.
