IFMA Greater Phoenix Chapter wins big at 2025 Awards of Excellence; claims Large Chapter honor

IFMA Greater Phoenix Chapter wins big at 2025 Awards of Excellence; claims Large Chapter honor

News & Updates

by | Oct 15, 2025 | News & Updates

TEMPE, ARIZ. (October 15, 2025) ‒ The IFMA Greater Phoenix Chapter is proud to announce a double victory at the 2025 Awards of Excellence, held during IFMA’s 45th annual World Workplace Conference and Expo in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The chapter was honored with the prestigious Large Chapter of the Year award, and the Greater Phoenix Student Chapter of IFMA at Arizona State University earned the title of Student Chapter of the Year.

These accolades reflect the chapter’s unwavering commitment to advancing the facility management profession and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community of FM professionals and students.

Leading the charge was Immediate Past President Monisa Manju Nagarajan Gomathi, CFM, FMP, SFP, FMG, whose visionary leadership and infectious ambition energized the board and inspired a wave of impactful initiatives. Her legacy continues to shine through the chapter’s dynamic committees and member-driven programs.

“As the IFMA Greater Phoenix Chapter celebrates its 40th anniversary, this milestone is a moment of pride and gratitude. It reflects the dedication of our chapter board and volunteers, and honors those who came before us and laid the foundation for lasting impact within the facility management profession,” said Gomathi, Senior Project Manager – Facilities Services with Terracon.

The torch has now been passed to David Ramirez, CFM, LEED AP BDC, CEAS, with APS, who brings a bold vision for the future. Under his leadership, the chapter aims to expand its reach by welcoming more facilities teams into its membership, supporting professional development, and strengthening the FM career pipeline. The chapter also plans to spotlight the incredible facilities across Metro Phoenix through engaging campaigns and educational events.

The Awards of Excellence recognize outstanding contributions to IFMA and the facility management industry across 18 categories. Winners were selected by panels of industry experts who evaluated nominees based on category-specific criteria, innovation, and impact.

“Recognizing the significant role that individuals have played in advancing IFMA and FM has been a part of our DNA from the beginning,” said IFMA President & CEO Michael V. Geary, CAE. “We honor those who drive progress and set new standards of excellence.”

Upcoming chapter events:

The Annual Charity Golf Tournament presented by SDB Contracting Services will be held Nov. 7, at the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club. The event sold out of tee boxes and foursomes in record time. Raffle prize ticket sales will benefit Girls Can Build, Lokahi Teams, and the IFMA Foundation.

The chapter will celebrate its 40th anniversary at its Annual Holiday Party presented by TEPCON at G Collection Cars, 602 N. Hayden Road, in Scottsdale. Sponsorship opportunities are open for the 80s theme party. Contact events@ifmaphoenix.org for questions or information on sponsorships.

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 About IFMA

 Founded in 1980, IFMA is the world’s largest and most widely recognized international association for facility management professionals, supporting more than 24,000 members in 105 countries. The association’s members, represented in 134 chapters and 17 councils worldwide, manage more than 37 billion square feet of property and annually purchase more than $100 billion in products and services. IFMA certifies facility managers, conducts research, provides educational programs and produces World Workplace, the world’s largest facility management conference and exposition.

The Greater Phoenix Chapter of IFMA, formed in 1985, is one of the top association chapters in the world and winner of IFMA’s Large Chapter of the Year in 2012. It is dedicated to continuous improvement of the facility management profession by providing relevant educational and networking opportunities for its membership while supporting the community as a whole. For more information about the Phoenix chapter ifmaphoenix.org.

 

 

by Oct 15, 2025
Christopher Todd Communities CEO Todd Wood selected by GlobeSt. as a Multifamily Influencer

Christopher Todd Communities CEO Todd Wood selected by GlobeSt. as a Multifamily Influencer

News & Updates

by | Oct 14, 2025 | News & Updates

      MESA, Arizona (October 14, 2025) – Todd Wood, CEO of Christopher Todd Communities, has been named a GlobeSt. 2025 Influencer in Multifamily Real Estate.

This recognition celebrates the top talent within the multifamily real estate sector. Recognized for their outstanding successes, the chosen Influencers stand out among their counterparts through solid track records, innovative approaches, and significant contributions to their company and/or the industry as a whole.

This honor shines a spotlight on the influential professionals who help shape the multifamily industry and create lasting impacts on the industry. The 2025 Influencers in Multifamily were selected by a panel of industry experts based on their professional accomplishments; how impactful their work has been; how dedicated they have been to furthering the industry; and how committed they have been to high ethical standards, service and excellence.

“This year’s Multifamily Influencers reflect the dynamic forces reshaping the current housing market,” said Natalie Dolce, editor-in-chief of GlobeSt.com. “These honorees are pushing the industry forward; spearheading ambitious developments, advancing innovative housing solutions, and elevating standards for community-focused investment. The caliber of nominations underscores the sector’s remarkable depth of talent, and GlobeSt.com is proud to recognize those setting the pace for multifamily real estate now and into the future.”

Wood is being recognized not only for his trailblazing contributions as a developer in the build-to-rent (BTR) space, but also for his foresight in navigating the evolving real estate market through the strategic acquisition and turnaround of underperforming BTR communities across the country.

In a landscape shaped by changing capital flows, rising interest rates, and shifting renter preferences, Wood has demonstrated rare agility. Over the past two years, he has led Christopher Todd Capital in acquiring, rebranding, and repositioning distressed or overlooked BTR assets, improving both asset quality and the resident experience while protecting investor returns. Wood will be a speaker on a BTR panel this summer in New Orleans at Apartmentalize 2026, sponsored by the National Apartment Association (NAA).

The transition from purely ground-up development to opportunistic acquisition showcases his deep understanding of macroeconomic cycles and commitment to delivering smart growth without sacrificing the company’s operational or brand integrity.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by GlobeSt. at this pivotal time in our industry,” Wood said. “We’ve spent the past few years focused on turning around undervalued communities and proving that quality and consistency still win. I look forward to reentering the development side of the business soon – with new, innovative communities that reflect what we’ve learned – when the market is right.”

Christopher Todd Communities remains the only branded BTR cottage-style developments, known for its distinctive single-story homes with smart technology, private backyards, and a strong emphasis on lifestyle, security, and resident experience.

The 2025 Influencers in Multifamily Real Estate will be profiled in a feature article on GlobeSt.com on October 14. The chosen Influencers will also be recognized in a slide rotation at GlobeSt.’s annual Multifamily Fall conference in Los Angeles on October 20, 2025.

For more about Christopher Todd Communities, visit christophertodd.com.

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by Oct 14, 2025
Harvard Investments completes sale of final neighborhood in Verde Trails in Avondale

Harvard Investments completes sale of final neighborhood in Verde Trails in Avondale

News & Updates

by | Oct 8, 2025 | News & Updates

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (Oct. 8, 2025) – Harvard Investments is proud to announce the successful sale of the final residential parcel within the Verde Trails master-planned community in Avondale, Arizona. The transaction marks a significant milestone in the development of this vibrant West Valley community.

The parcel consists of 110 single-family residential lots designed as a 6-pack cluster product on 45-foot by 55-foot lots, located at 107th Avenue and Broadway Road. The property was sold to Clayton Properties Group, Inc., doing business as Oakwood Homes, a respected builder known for quality and innovation.

Verde Trails now spans approximately 350 acres and includes 880± homes across a variety of lot sizes. A 6.5-acre commercial corner enhances the neighborhood’s retail offerings.

“The completion of this final sale in Verde Trails is a proud moment for Harvard Investments,” said Amy Weidman, Vice President of Development with Harvard Investments. “Oakwood Homes’ innovative cluster product will bring fresh energy and diversity to the community. Verde Trails has always been about thoughtful design, connectivity, and quality living. This final neighborhood continues that legacy.”

The community is distinguished by its interconnected parks and trail system, which serves as the backbone of Verde Trails. A multi-use trail links the community to the broader City of Avondale trail network, offering residents opportunities for walking, biking, and running. The central park corridor spans 9.5 acres, beginning with a 4.7-acre neighborhood park and extending to Broadway Road, creating seamless connections between neighborhoods.

Verde Trails features homes by nationally recognized builders, including Ashton Woods, Lennar, Shea Homes, Meritage Homes, and Pulte Homes, offering a wide range of designs and lifestyles for residents.

Ryan Semro and Bret Rinehart, with Scottsdale-based Land Advisors Organization, helped facilitate the sale.

“Harvard Investments celebrates the culmination of a thoughtfully designed and executed master-planned community that continues to thrive in the heart of Avondale,” Weidman said.

The community is distinguished by its interconnected parks and trail system, which serves as the backbone of Verde Trails. A multi-use trail links the community to the broader City of Avondale trail network, offering residents opportunities for walking, biking, and running. The central park corridor spans 9.5 acres, beginning with a 4.7-acre neighborhood park and extending to Broadway Road, creating seamless connections between neighborhoods.

About Harvard Investments  

Harvard Investments, Inc. is a real estate investment and development company with real estate holdings throughout the western United States. Harvard combines experience, integrity, and financial stability to create high-quality, environmentally sensitive, profitable communities, including both large-scale master planned communities and build-to-rent neighborhoods. Harvard’s Canadian parent, the Hill Companies, is a privately held diversified company involved in real estate development, including construction and leasing of commercial office buildings and retail properties, oil and gas production and distribution, broadcasting, surety bonding, and insurance. The Hill Companies celebrates its 122nd year of continuous family ownership and operation in 2025. To learn more, visit harvardinvestments.com.

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by Oct 08, 2025
Wespac Construction celebrates steel topping out milestone for new Sprouts Farmers Market HQ

Wespac Construction celebrates steel topping out milestone for new Sprouts Farmers Market HQ

News & Updates

by | Sep 24, 2025 | News & Updates

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Sept. 24, 2024) — Wespac Construction, Inc. is proud to announce the topping out of steel at the new Sprouts Farmers Market Headquarters, a dynamic mixed-use office shell campus under construction in the heart of North Phoenix. This major milestone marks the completion of the project’s structural steel frame, bringing the future home of Sprouts one step closer to reality.

The topping-out ceremony, held on-site with project partners and subcontractors, recognized the collective effort and craftsmanship that made this achievement possible. Next Level Steel, the trade partner leading the steel work, played a pivotal role in reaching this stage safely and successfully.

Located within the CityNorth development near 56th Street and Loop 101, the 7-acre campus will feature a four-story, 150,000 SF Class A office building, a 25,000 SF flagship Sprouts grocery store, 11,000 SF of retail and restaurant space, and a three-story parking garage.

“This milestone is an incredible moment for the entire team,” said Matt McPherron, Senior Project Manager at Wespac Construction, Inc. “Topping out the steel is a symbol of the hard work, precision, and collaboration that have carried us to this point. We’re grateful for the expertise of Next Level Steel and all our partners as we continue to bring this landmark headquarters to life for Sprouts and the Phoenix community.”

The future headquarters, designed by RSP Architects, developed by Trammell Crow Company, and brokers from Keyser and JLL, will emphasize employee wellness and collaboration with modern amenities such as an on-site gym, yoga studio, rooftop deck, Press Coffee café, culinary kitchens, tasting rooms, and a chef’s garden for meals and community events.

Sprouts is expected to transition from its current 96,000-square-foot space into the new headquarters by August 2026, further supporting its national growth and deepening its commitment to Phoenix, Arizona as home.

The topping-out ceremony, held on-site with project partners and subcontractors, recognized the collective effort and craftsmanship that made this achievement possible. Next Level Steel, the trade partner leading the steel work, played a pivotal role in reaching this stage safely and successfully.

About Wespac

Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering pre-construction and construction services in various market sectors. From small tenant improvement projects to large shell and master-planned communities, Wespac is a true partner to our clients throughout the entire project lifecycle. We pursue the art of construction, while contributing knowledge, leadership, passion, and commitment to every employee, client, and project team. Wespac has offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. For more information visit www.wespacaz.com.

 

by Sep 24, 2025
Goodyear City Council unanimously approves significant rezoning request for Estrella 14 PAD

Goodyear City Council unanimously approves significant rezoning request for Estrella 14 PAD

News & Updates

by | Sep 23, 2025 | News & Updates

GOODYEAR, Ariz. (Sept. 23, 2025) – In a transformative decision that sets the stage for the next chapter of growth in the master-planned community of Estrella, the Goodyear City Council on Monday night voted unanimously (7-0) to approve the rezoning request for the Estrella 14 Planned Area Development (PAD).

The approval marks a significant milestone for Estrella Development Company and the City of Goodyear, paving the way for a vibrant mix of residential and commercial development across approximately 1,505 acres of vacant land.

The rezoning replaces the original Estrella Phase II PAD, which was adopted more than 35 years ago, with a modernized plan that reflects current development principles, community needs, and the City’s General Plan. The newly approved Estrella 14 PAD will extend the Estrella community east of Estrella Parkway and south of Estrella Foothills High School, creating opportunities for a second commercial and services core to complement the existing one near Estrella Parkway and Elliott Road.

“Estrella 14 represents the next evolution of our community,” said Jeff Zimmerman, Vice President of Development with Estrella Development Company. “With this plan, we’re creating a vibrant, walkable environment that blends residential diversity with meaningful commercial opportunities. It’s a chance to build on Estrella’s legacy and shape a future that offers something for everyone, from first-time homebuyers to retirees, while enhancing the lifestyle and amenities that make Estrella so special.”

The Estrella community spans approximately 20,000 acres and is known for its scenic beauty, open spaces, and thoughtfully designed neighborhoods. The Estrella 14 PAD builds on this legacy by introducing a pedestrian-friendly layout, the extension of trails and community amenities, diversified housing options, and a second commercial hub that can include shops, restaurants, office space, and civic amenities. The rezone sets the framework for future development, allowing structured flexibility in land use for the community to grow how and when is best suited for the Estrella community.

Originally planned as a high-intensity area due to the anticipated alignment of the Loop 303 freeway, the Estrella 14 area has evolved in response to changes in regional infrastructure. The freeway was ultimately rerouted west of the Estrella community, prompting a reimagining of the land use strategy to better align with current realities and community aspirations. The Estrella 14 PAD effectively downzones the property.

The area, situated east of Estrella Parkway and west of the South Cotton Lane alignment, was zoned for up to 8,400 residential units, including 4,516 multifamily units. With the unanimous passage by the City Council, the new maximum number of residential units is reduced to 6,034, with multifamily units capped at 864.

The Estrella 14 PAD is envisioned to include 18 percent open space, neighborhood parks, and a residents’ club designed to serve as a hub for social and recreational activities. The plan also includes an expansion of Estrella’s popular trail system, connecting residents to existing amenities such as residents’ clubs, and North Lake and South Lake, as well as to the 19,000-acre Estrella Mountain Regional Park.

As development moves south toward Calistoga Drive and Estrella Parkway, the new zoning is designed to support a variety of housing types. It is envisioned to accommodate first-time buyers, families, empty nesters, and retirees. Anticipated housing options call for a rich variety of housing types which can include single-family homes, courtyard homes, single-family attached residences, and multifamily residences. The plan also allows for potential mixed-use development within the commercial core at Willis Road and Estrella Parkway, integrating residential and retail spaces.

The rezoning supports the City of Goodyear’s goal of promoting diversified housing and neighborhood services. The commercial core will be scaled to meet the needs of the growing Estrella population, with potential for a second grocery store, restaurants, office space, and other neighborhood services. Additional retail opportunities are envisioned along Estrella Parkway and at key intersections, encouraging walkability and attracting small businesses.

“With this approval, Estrella is poised to continue its evolution into a complete, connected, and inclusive community. The Estrella 14 PAD reflects a comprehensive planning approach that ties future growth to a shared vision, ensuring that Estrella remains a desirable place for generations to come,” said Jennifer Meyers, Director of Planning for Estrella Development Company.

About Estrella

Home to more than 8,400 families, Estrella is a 20,000-acre mixed-use master-planned community located in the City of Goodyear, approximately 17 miles west of Phoenix. Estrella’s 500-plus acres of open space include more than 50 parks and 65 miles of paths and trails, plus 72 acres of lakes for kayaking, sailing, and catch-and-release fishing. Amenities include Starpointe and Presidio Residents’ Clubs, the Yacht Club of Estrella, two fitness centers, resort-style swimming pools, basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and tennis courts. Estrella is also home to a Nicklaus-design Championship golf course, The Golf Club of Estrella. Estrella is owned in a joint venture among Värde Partners, Toll Brothers, and Harvard Investments. For more information about Estrella, please visit estrella.com.

 

 

 

by Sep 23, 2025
Terracon hires Sabrina Perez as its new Desert Southwest Region Client Development Manager

Terracon hires Sabrina Perez as its new Desert Southwest Region Client Development Manager

News & Updates

by | Sep 22, 2025 | News & Updates

     TEMPE, Ariz. (Sept. 22, 2025) – Terracon, a leading consulting engineering firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services, has named Sabrina Perez, M.ASCE, as Client Development Manager to support strategic growth and client engagement across the Desert Southwest Region.

With more than two decades of experience in the AEC industry, Perez brings a unique blend of technical expertise and multicultural insight to her new role. She will lead initiatives in business development, strategic planning, and client relationship management, while also driving brand visibility and team collaboration throughout the region. Her responsibilities will include market intelligence, mentorship, and enhancing Terracon’s presence within the architecture, engineering, and commercial real estate sectors.

“Sabrina’s deep industry knowledge and collaborative leadership style make her an exceptional addition to our team,” said Brent M. Borchers, P.E., Terracon Director of Regional Operations. “Her ability to connect with clients and foster meaningful partnerships will be instrumental as we continue to expand our impact across the Desert Southwest Region.”

A native of London, England, Perez was educated in the United Kingdom, Switzerland, New Jersey, and Arizona. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from Rutgers University in 2005 and a BS in psychology from Arizona State University in 2023.

She is involved with numerous industry groups, including GPEC, ASCE, AAED, ULI Arizona, AZCREW, APWA, Valley Partnership, Pinal Partnership, NAIOP Greater Phoenix, AGC, ABA, City of Phoenix Encanto Village Planning Commission (Board Member), EPAZ, EIA, AHS, and ACEC.

Perez is active in the community volunteering with ASCE E-Week; Future Cities as   ASCE Society Judge, Professional Judge, and Volunteer; STEM ASU (Game Day), University of Arizona (Mesa), and Grand Canyon University (International Christian STEM competition); SciTech Institute (professional speaker); Saving One Life and Almost There Rescue (animal foster parent/volunteer); Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona (volunteer and lead mentor); and My Nana’s Best Tasting Salsa Challenge (Arizona Hemophilia Association, volunteer).

Perez is an avid football fan who cheers for the Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers, and Arizona Cardinals. Away from the office, she enjoys spending time on WhatsApp with her large family, which is spread all around the world.

 About Terracon

Terracon is an employee-owned, multidisciplinary consulting firm comprised of more than 7,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 180 locations nationwide. In 2025, we celebrate Terracon’s 60th anniversary with gratitude to our employees and clients and excitement for the future as Our Adventure Continues. Explore with us by visiting terracon.com.

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by Sep 22, 2025
Arizona Masonry Council to host 2025 Masonry Expo, highlighting skill, speed, craftsmanship

Arizona Masonry Council to host 2025 Masonry Expo, highlighting skill, speed, craftsmanship

News & Updates

by | Sep 22, 2025 | News & Updates

     PHOENIX, ARIZ. (Sept. 22, 2025) – The Arizona Masonry Council is proud to announce the 2025 Masonry Expo, taking place on Saturday, October 18, at Oldcastle’s Lone Butte Plant, 6629 West Germann Road, Chandler, Arizona.

This exciting event will showcase the skill, speed, and craftsmanship of Arizona’s masonry workforce through three exciting competitions: high school masonry, apprentice masonry, and the thrilling Fastest Trowel on the Block.

The highlight of the day, the Fastest Trowel on the Block, kicks off at 11 a.m., where seasoned masons and their tenders race against the clock to lay as many blocks as possible in 20 minutes. This contest is not only a test of speed but a celebration of craftsmanship and pride in the trade.

      High school masonry competition, 8 a.m.: More than 30 high schools from across Arizona will send their top masonry students to compete in a one-hour challenge. Contestants will be judged on plumb, level, square, and range measurements, production, tooling, and neatness for a total of 150 possible points.

This competition showcases the next generation of skilled tradespeople and includes standout competitors, including Kate McKuen, a senior at Canyon del Oro High School in Tucson. A member of CDO’s Architecture Program, she competed at the National SkillsUSA competition in Atlanta last year as the only Arizona competitor in the masonry high school competition for the second consecutive year.

       Apprentice masonry competition, 7 a.m.: Apprentices from EVIT (East Valley Institute of Technology) and PCC (Pima Community College) will compete in a two-hour challenge that serves as their final grade and a qualifier for the World of Concrete competition in Las Vegas in January 2026. Apprentices from Years 1, 2, and 3 will be judged on the same criteria as the high school competitors, with projects designed to test both technical skill and craftsmanship.

     Fastest Trowel on the Block, 11 a.m.: This thrilling 20-minute contest pits seasoned masons and their tenders against the clock to lay as many 8″x8″x16″ and 8″x8″x8″ CMU blocks as possible, using 120 blocks provided by AMC. Judging is randomized to ensure fairness, and contestants must clean up their work after the initial build. The top mason earns bragging rights and a spot at the World of Concrete in Las Vegas. This contest is a celebration of speed, precision, and pride in the trade.

All contestants must follow strict safety protocols, including wearing protective gear and competition T-shirts throughout the event. No outside consultation is allowed during the competition, and judging will be conducted by a panel of 10 industry experts per contest.

“This event is a celebration of the future and the legacy of masonry in Arizona,” said Dawn Rogers, Executive Director of the Arizona Masonry Council. “We’re thrilled to bring together students, apprentices, and professionals to showcase their talent and passion. It’s inspiring to see young competitors, including returning champions and rising stars like Kate (McKuen), who represented Arizona at the National Skills USA competition last year, proving that the future of masonry is diverse, strong, and incredibly skilled. The Masonry Expo promises a day of excitement, education, and community pride.”

All contestants must follow strict safety protocols, including wearing protective gear and competition T-shirts throughout the event. No outside consultation is allowed during the competition, and judging will be conducted by a panel of 10 industry experts per contest.

 About the Arizona Masonry Council

The mission of the Arizona Masonry Council is to create significant and lasting positive change for the Arizona masonry industry and to reinforce that our systems provide the premier building envelope solution in the minds of public and private owners, developers, architects, engineers, general contractors, and the general public. The Council and its members have played a significant role in economic development, new product and construction standards, enhanced safety policies and increased energy efficiency of masonry products. It has also been on the forefront of developing and implementing statewide education programs for the professional community as well as students from college to the high school level. The Arizona Masonry Council can be reached at (602) 265-5999 or visit azmasonry.org.

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by Sep 22, 2025
Terracon welcomes Senior Archaeologist Jerryll Moreno to lead cultural resources operations

Terracon welcomes Senior Archaeologist Jerryll Moreno to lead cultural resources operations

News & Updates

by | Sep 15, 2025 | News & Updates

     TEMPE, Ariz. (Sept. 15, 2025) – Terracon, a leading consulting engineering firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services, is pleased to announce the addition of Jerryll Moreno as Senior Archaeologist.

With three decades of experience in cultural resource management, Moreno brings deep expertise and leadership to Terracon’s growing Cultural Resources Group.

In her new role, Moreno will support the Cultural Resources Group Manager and oversee operations at Terracon’s Tempe office. Her responsibilities will include managing archaeological investigations, ensuring regulatory compliance, mentoring junior staff, and fostering client relationships.

Moreno’s extensive background in fieldwork, research, and project management will be instrumental in advancing Terracon’s mission to deliver innovative and responsible solutions in cultural resource consulting.

Her past roles include the National Association of Environmental Professionals, Cultural Resources Working Group Leader, 2018-2024; Board of Directors Member at Large, 2023-2024; Society for American Archaeology, Employment Taskforce Subcommittee Chair for Wages, 2023-2024; American Cultural Resource Association, Membership and Partnership Committees, 2021-2024; and the Arizona Archaeological and Historical Society, Publication Committee for Kiva: The Southwest Journal of Anthropology and History, Book Review Editor and Publication Committee 2012-24.

“We’re excited and honored to welcome Jerryll to Terracon. With over 30 years of archaeological experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a valuable perspective to cultural resource management to our team,” said Noelle J. Espinosa, PhD, Terracon’s Environmental Department Manager. “Her dedication to her profession, tribal engagement, and professional mentorship of our growing archaeological team will be a tremendous asset to our clients and projects throughout the state.”

A native of Los Angeles, Moreno holds a BA in anthropology from UCLA; an MA in anthropology from Northern Arizona University; and an MA in scholarly publishing from Arizona State University. Moreno is a member of the Society for American Archaeology (SAA), the Arizona Archaeological and Historic Society (AAHS); and the Arizona Archaeological Council (AAC).

Away from the office, Moreno enjoys a variety of home improvement and design projects. She enjoys backpacking, skiing, and swimming with sharks in the San Diego-Scripps State Marine Conservation Area in La Jolla, California.

About Terracon

Terracon is an employee-owned, multidisciplinary consulting firm comprised of more than 7,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 180 locations nationwide. In 2025, we celebrate Terracon’s 60th anniversary with gratitude to our employees and clients and excitement for the future as Our Adventure Continues. Explore with us by visiting terracon.com.

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by Sep 15, 2025
Richmond American Homes announces grand opening of Portfolio at Lucero in Estrella

Richmond American Homes announces grand opening of Portfolio at Lucero in Estrella

News & Updates

by | Sep 10, 2025 | News & Updates

GOODYEAR, Ariz. (Sept. 10, 2025) — Richmond American Homes is proud to unveil its newest neighborhood, Portfolio at Lucero, located in the vibrant master-planned community of Estrella in Goodyear. The Grand Opening celebration is set for Friday, Sept. 26, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 16969 W. Ardmore Road, marking the builder’s second neighborhood in the village of Lucero.

Portfolio at Lucero will feature 92 thoughtfully designed homesites and offer five versatile floor plans tailored to meet the needs of today’s homebuyers. Homes range from 1,940 SF to 3,070 SF, with prices starting in the low $600,000s.

Homes in this new neighborhood offer from 3 to 5 bedrooms, 2 to 3 bathrooms, and 2- to 3-car garages, with opportunities for personalization through Richmond American’s signature design process.

“Portfolio at Lucero represents the next chapter in our commitment to building homes that reflect the way people live today – flexible, stylish, and rooted in community,” said Rick Morris, Division President of Richmond American Homes. “We were proud to be part of the first phase of Lucero, and it’s been rewarding to help shape both Lucero and Estrella over the past couple of decades. Across multiple communities, we’ve built more than homes. We’ve built lasting relationships. We’re thrilled about what we have coming to market and remain deeply committed to serving the residents who make this area so special.”

The great room in the two-story Denali model.

There are seven homes currently under construction, accommodating those seeking a home they can quickly move into. These homes range from 1,940 to 2,800 SF. These early move-in options combine convenience with personalization, allowing buyers to settle in without sacrificing style.

As part of the Grand Opening, guests are invited to tour two professionally decorated model homes: the one-story, 2,370 SF Raleigh floor plan featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage, which also serves as the neighborhood’s sales office; and the two-story, 2,800 SF Denali, offering 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, and a 2-car garage.

Portfolio at Lucero builds on the success of Seasons at Lucero, Richmond American’s first neighborhood in the village, which opened in March with 53 homesites and a mix of single- and two-story plans. The builder also plans to expand its footprint in Estrella with two additional neighborhoods in Montecito, slated to open by year’s end.

“As the West Valley booms with quality employment, and more commercial, entertainment, and retail offerings than ever before, homebuilders have turned their attention to the neighborhoods Estrella offers,” said Jeff Zimmerman, Vice President of Development for Estrella Development. “We’re proud to work with Richmond American Homes at Lucero. Their commitment to quality and design reflects the vibrant growth and lifestyle at Estrella.”

Located in the heart of the West Valley, one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, Estrella is also one of the largest master-planned communities in the Southwest. Resident amenities include multiple community centers, resort-style, family and lap pools, two fitness centers, more than 55 parks and 65 miles of paths and trails, scenic mountain views, 72 acres of lakes and more than 500 acres of open space, and a daily-fee Nicklaus-Design Championship golf course, The Golf Club of Estrella.

The Grand Opening coincides with Ballet Under the Stars, presented by Estrella, Ballet Arizona, and the City of Goodyear. The performance is free and begins at 7 p.m. at the Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater, 10300 Estrella Parkway, Goodyear. Estrella is also hosting a New Home Tour of all its neighborhoods from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. with more than 40 new homes on display. Tour maps are available at the Estrella Welcome Center, 8175 Hillside Drive, and online.

For more information, visit the Richmond American Homes Portfolio at Lucero website here; for additional information or to RSVP for the Grand Opening call (480) 624-0244.

The one-story, 2,370 SF Raleigh floor plan features 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage, which also serves as the neighborhood’s sales office.

About Estrella

Home to more than 8,400 families, Estrella is a 20,000-acre mixed-use master-planned community located in the City of Goodyear, approximately 17 miles west of Phoenix. Estrella’s 500-plus acres of open space include more than 50 parks and 65 miles of paths and trails, plus 72 acres of lakes for kayaking, sailing, and catch-and-release fishing. Amenities include Starpointe and Presidio Residents’ Clubs, the Yacht Club of Estrella, two fitness centers, resort-style swimming pools, basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and tennis courts. Estrella is also home to a Nicklaus-design Championship golf course, The Golf Club of Estrella. Estrella is owned in a joint venture among Värde Partners, Toll Brothers, and Harvard Investments. For more information about Estrella, please visit estrella.com.

 

 

 

by Sep 10, 2025
Terracon honored with APWA Arizona Project of the Year award for sustainable campus retrofit

Terracon honored with APWA Arizona Project of the Year award for sustainable campus retrofit

News & Updates

by | Sep 4, 2025 | News & Updates

     TEMPE, Ariz. (Sept. 4, 2025) – Terracon, in collaboration with the Flood Control District of Maricopa County and contractor Rummel Construction, won the American Public Works Association (APWA) Arizona Project of the Year in the Environment category (under $5 million) for their work on the Durango Campus Landscape and Water Conservation Retrofit in Phoenix.

The project showcases innovative design and sustainable practices that enhance water efficiency and environmental resilience. The project at the Maricopa County Flood Control District headquarters transformed the campus into a showcase for sustainable, water-wise landscaping and stormwater harvesting, featuring more than 150 new trees and robust habitat restoration. This involved overcoming challenging soils and complex utility work.

The project also serves as a demonstration of green stormwater infrastructure and low-impact development techniques and continues to function as a living lab to monitor the benefits of stormwater reuse to mitigate the impact of drought on urban landscapes.

Accepting the APWA award are (left to right) Ron Kries, Rummel Construction; Pablo Bautista-Marquez, Rummel Construction; John Griffin, Terracon; and Carlos Gonzalez, Rummel Construction.

“This project’s significance extends far beyond its innovative use of materials and green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) design techniques. The purposeful incorporation of post-construction performance evaluation, research opportunities, and maintenance considerations during the design process made all the difference in aligning intended outcomes. It exemplifies how using a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach leads to a successfully completed project,” said Harry Cooper, PLA, Director, Water Conservation Innovation with the Arizona Water Innovation Initiative (ASU) and former Manager of the Landscape & Water Conservation Branch at the Flood Control District of Maricopa County.

The APWA Public Works Project of the Year was established to promote excellence in the management and administration of public works projects by recognizing the alliance between the managing agency, the consultant/architect/engineer, and the contractor who, working together, complete public works projects.

Public works projects are nominated in four cost divisions and five categories plus in five different categories for Small Cities/Rural Communities. Individuals are also recognized by the chapter each year.

The award was presented at the American Public Works Association Arizona Chapter state conference in Tucson.

About Terracon

Terracon is an employee-owned multidisciplinary consulting firm comprised of more than 7,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 180 locations nationwide. Our talented employee-owners provide on-time and real-time data-driven insights to create an unmatched client experience that spans the lifecycle of any project, any size, anywhere. Start to explore with us by visiting terracon.com. For more information visit Terracon.com.

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by Sep 04, 2025