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.
