Buckeye is shaping the West Valley's next big entertainment destination

Buckeye is moving forward with plans to build The Landing, which could become the West Valley’s next major retail and entertainment center.

The Landing is envisioned to be a destination for “all things fun, entertainment, work, shopping and living,” according to city documents. The 2,100-acre project site is located south of Interstate 10 and Verrado Road.

It is one of six “activity centers” identified in the city’s General Plan, defined as various mixed-use areas with distinctive site plans.

Other planned activity centers mentioned in the General Plan include the Buckeye Highlands Activity Center, planned in the northern part of the city, and the White Tank Mountain Resort Activity Center, planned west of the White Tank Mountains.

Where could the landing be?

The city is still working on the Landing Area Plan and seeking input from residents on exactly what the area should be used for. According to city documents, Buckeye sees the site as an opportunity to integrate a recreation center with a variety of living opportunities and areas for healthcare, research and education.

The area has already proven to be a hot spot for development: Phoenix-based Vestar, the developer of Desert Ridge Marketplace and Tempe Marketplace, is developing Verrado Marketplace in the northeast section of Interstate 10 and Verrado Way.

Last year, Costco opened on the southwest side of the intersection. Banner Health also recently opened a new building in the northwest corner, and Abrazo Health followed suit in the southeast corner.

Costco is at the northernmost end of the planning area, which extends east to Jackrabbit Road and south to Yuma Road. The Palo Verde Energy Education Center and West-MEC facilities are located within the planning area, as well as the Buckeye Union High School Learning District.

The area is located near the communities of Verrado, Sundance and Blue Horizons.

What would happen at The Landing?

According to city documents, The Landing will help increase economic development and tourism in the area while also providing recreational opportunities, education and diverse living opportunities.

As the city takes suggestions from residents, it is asking them to consider what kind of housing the city still needs and what amenities they would like to see.

According to the city, residents have so far expressed a desire to see a walkable area that prioritizes pedestrian safety. Residents also hope to see additional community parks and trail systems.

They also hope to see open space integrated throughout the area, as opposed to higher density.

Residents also hope to keep cars to a minimum, emphasizing their desire to see fewer drive-throughs and other amenities that require a car.

How can you express your opinion?

Residents can learn more about upcoming meetings and submit their comments to the city at: https://www.buckeyeaz.gov/thelanding.

Reach the reporter’s address [email protected] or call 480-259-8545. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter: @AlexandraHardle.

Where could the landing be?

What would happen at The Landing?

How can you express your opinion?

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