Work underway for 2 master-planned communities in far East Valley city

PHOENIX — Work is underway for two master-planned communities set to engulf more than 2,500 acres in a far East Valley city.

Ground was broken on the mixed-use projects in Apache Junction on Wednesday, according to a press release from the city.

The communities, located near Elliot and Meridian roads, will have about 10,500 residential units once completed.

About 1,800 first-phase units are expected to be available for sale to homebuilders early next year, according to the city.

The communities will be developed over a 10-year period in multiple phases, with the first phase of openings set for 2023.

They will have 40 acres for commercial use, 20 acres for an elementary school, 75 acres for outdoor and recreational space, and 10 acres for a public safety facilities.

“It’s more than historic. It will change the face of our city and the region,” Bryant Powell, city manager, said in the release.

“We, the city of Apache Junction, are putting our unique stamp on the East Valley and beyond. It is our time. And I am so excited that Apache Junction’s time is now.”

The projects are part of Apache Junction’s aspirations to develop 275 square miles south of U.S. 60 that is under the control of the Arizona State Land Department.

The city first started planning for development in the mid-2000s but progress was halted by the economic downturn in 2008.

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