T
he city of Buckeye, a suburb about 35 miles west of Phoenix, has designated 2,100 acres as a mixed-use entertainment hub. Dubbed The Landing, the area will combine retail, housing, recreation, education, and research in one destination. Located south of Interstate 10 on either side of Verrado Way, The Landing aims to create a thriving live-work-play environment.

    Residents have expressed a desire for pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, diverse housing options, and improved walkability in the shopping and entertainment district. A community meeting is scheduled for November 6 to further discuss the project. Buckeye has experienced significant employment growth but lacks retail and entertainment offerings compared to other cities west of Phoenix.

    The proposed 3.4-square-mile hub will surround residential neighborhoods, including a master-planned area with nearly 7,000 homes. Within The Landing, Vestar plans to build a 520,000-square-foot shopping center featuring restaurants and stores like Target and Safeway. Three more shopping centers are under construction in the area, totaling 600,000 square feet.

    The Buckeye City Council is expected to vote on the plan this spring. The project's goal is not only to construct buildings but also to create an ecosystem that fosters a vibrant community.