Vertical farm opens in Avondale to boost sustainable food production

PHEONIX — A new vertical farm in the Avondale Industrial Park opened last week with the goal of sustainably producing pesticide-free food.

Vertical farms grow produce year-round by controlling light, temperature and water indoors, which allows crops to flourish in urban areas regardless of seasonal or environmental impacts, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Avondale’s 12,000-square-foot farm aims to grow food using 99% less water than crop fields while avoiding the use of chemicals or topsoil, the city announced in a press release.

Silicon Valley-founded vertical farm technology affiliates OnePointOne and Willo Farm designed an advanced vertical-place aeroponics system used to grow the produce. This facility will operate as their new headquarters

“With our rich history of farming and agriculture, Avondale is pleased to welcome OnepointOne and Willo Farm to the city,” Mayor Kenn Weise said in the release. “As Avondale and the West Valley continue to grow, we recognize it is increasingly important to create and preserve a sustainable local food system.”

The city announced the new farm is designed to grow 250-times more produce per acre than traditional farms.

Companies can buy and operate their own farms at the facility, according to the Phoenix Business Journal.

“Avondale has quickly arisen as a desirable location for high-tech companies that want to take advantage of our competitively priced real estate options and proximity to major transportation corridors and skilled labor force,” Ken Chapa, Avondale’s economic development and tourism director, said in the release.

A grand opening ceremony was held last week at the facility located near 107th Avenue and Roosevelt Parkway.