GOODYEAR, Ariz. (May 6, 2026) — Harvard Investments announces Solstice Foothills as the new name for its 1,940‑acre master‑planned community in the City of Goodyear, marking the first public unveiling of a new identity for the project formerly known as Rio 1900.
The announcement signals a major milestone for one of the most significant land holdings in the West Valley and introduces a name that reflects the site’s desert setting, evolving vision, and long‑term role in shaping growth along the Gila River corridor.
Formerly known as King Ranch and later Rio 1900, the property is entering a new chapter as Solstice Foothills. Harvard Investments says this new identity better aligns with the land’s natural features, elevation changes, and connection to the rhythms of the Sonoran Desert.
With 5,800 residences planned, Solstice Foothills anticipates offering a diverse mix of housing types, a commercial core designed for walkability, and amenities that support outdoor living while emphasizing water efficiency and responsible desert design. The first homes are anticipated around 2030.
“This is more than a rebrand. It’s a declaration of intent,” said Amy Weidman, Vice President of Development for Harvard Investments. “Solstice Foothills reflects the land, the light, and the long view we are taking as stewards of this extraordinary place.”
The name Solstice Foothills draws inspiration from the sun’s seasonal movement and the site’s foothill topography, capturing both permanence and transition; key themes as the community advances toward development.
“The solstice represents moments of alignment and change,” Weidman said. “As we move this community forward, the name signals that we are building with intention, respecting the desert environment while creating something enduring for future generations.”
The new name follows a series of pivotal developments for the project, including an approved General Plan amendment by the City of Goodyear and Harvard Investments’ acquisition of two Arizona State Land Department parcels within the project boundary. The land acquisitions ensure a contiguous master plan and uninterrupted trail system along the Gila River.
“With Solstice Foothills, we now have the clarity and continuity needed to fully realize the vision,” Weidman said. “It allows us to deliver a connected community; physically, environmentally, and socially, without compromise.”
Solstice Foothills is planned as a walkable, outdoor‑oriented community designed to celebrate its natural surroundings. The project is expected to become the first residential development in the West Valley to directly establish standards for the El Rio Trail, integrating recreation, education, and wellness along the river corridor.
“This site gives us a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity,” Weidman added. “There are very few places where you can combine foothills, river access, and scale in this way. Solstice Foothills will set the tone for how communities engage with the Gila River in the West Valley.”
As the West Valley continues to emerge as one of the nation’s fastest‑growing regions, Harvard Investments says Solstice Foothills will play a defining role in its next era of growth.
“This name reflects where we are and where we’re going,” Weidman said. “Solstice Foothills is about honoring the land, shaping community, and building something truly distinctive for the West Valley.”
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 123rd year of continuous family ownership and operation in 2026. To learn more visit harvardinvestments.com.
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