SUPERIOR, ARIZONA — The Town of Superior and Resolution Copper have signed a groundbreaking Regional Economic Development (RED) agreement, cementing a collaborative effort to fortify Superior's economic landscape. This historic agreement marks a significant step toward ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for the community.

The three-year, multi-million dollar agreement signifies a resolute commitment to fostering economic growth and supporting vital community initiatives. With a focus on multifaceted development, this partnership will bolster essential projects and programs that directly benefit the residents of Superior.

Town of Superior Mayor Mila Besich expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "This agreement continues our ongoing alignment to achieve a diversified and sustainable economy for a resilient Superior community. The collaboration with Resolution Copper underscores our dedication to nurturing economic opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for our residents."

Resolution Copper President and General Manager Vicky Peacey echoed the sentiments by Mayor Besich, emphasizing the transformative impact of this collaboration. "We are thrilled to continue our long-term partnership with the Town of Superior to drive economic development and community empowerment. This partnership reflects our shared vision for a thriving Superior, focusing on initiatives that support education, workforce development and the overall well-being of the community."

The agreement's focal points encompass a wide array of initiatives, including substantial support for the Superior Multi-Generational Center and the Superior Enterprise Center/Workforce Development Center. These funds will enable community service programming, capital improvements and robust workforce development programs.

Moreover, the agreement will propel Superior's annual Marketing and Tourism program, amplifying efforts to attract visitors and stimulate economic activity. The infusion of resources will also advance economic development capacity, maintain senior economic advisory services and fortify an economic development toolkit, further solidifying Superior's economic foundation.

In a bid to foster educational advancement, the agreement champions the new Superior Lego Robotics program for grades 4-5, fostering innovation and STEM education among the youth. Additionally, it extends support to the Superior Youth Council, empowering young leaders to actively engage and contribute to the town's growth.

The Town of Superior and Resolution Copper stand united in their commitment to nurturing a vibrant and inclusive community. This Regional Economic Development agreement is a testament to our shared dedication to fostering a thriving and sustainable future for Superior.

About the Town of Superior, Arizona

Superior is on U.S. 60 at the junction with State Highway 177. Situated in a mountainous setting, the town is surrounded by peaks such as 6,056-foot Iron Mountain. In 1900, George Lobb laid out the town, naming it Hastings. Mines dotted the hills around the prosperous Pinal County community. Stockholders in one of the successful silver mines lived in Michigan and named their mine Lake Superior. This mine fed the area economy, and the community changed its name to Superior after this mine. The Magma Copper Company was established in 1910 and ran the Silver Queen Mine, which became a great copper producer after its silver ran out. A smelter was built in 1924 and remained in operation for 47 years.

Major employment sectors in the Superior area include mining, trade and service. The community's trade and service sectors are expanding, as is tourism. Agriculture is significant to Superior's economy and ranching is conducted in the surrounding areas. The development and permitting of the Resolution Copper project has created additional mining-related economic growth.

About Resolution Copper

The Resolution Copper Project is operated by Resolution Copper Mining LLC, a limited liability company owned 55 percent by Resolution Copper Company (a Rio Tinto PLC subsidiary) and 45 percent by BHP Copper Inc. (a BHP PLC subsidiary). Learn more at resolutioncopper.com.