Harvard Investments has taken another major step forward in bringing its planned Rio 1900 community to life, emerging as the successful bidder at an Arizona State Land Department auction for two 40‑acre parcels directly adjacent to the project site in Goodyear.
The acquisition strengthens the company’s long‑term vision for the nearly 2,000‑acre master‑planned community and reinforces its commitment to delivering a cohesive, well‑connected development in the West Valley, one of the fastest‑growing regions in the country.
“These parcels are strategically important to our long‑term planning efforts and will help us ensure Rio 1900 is connected, thoughtfully designed, and positioned for lasting success,” said Amy Weidman, Vice President of Development for Harvard Investments. “We are excited about the outcome of today’s auction and the opportunities it creates for the future Rio 1900 community.”
Rio 1900 is envisioned as a vibrant, connected community that celebrates the natural desert landscape and the outdoor lifestyle that defines the region. The 1,940‑acre master‑planned development sits along the southern bank of the Gila River and adjacent to Estrella, Harvards’ 20,000‑acre mixed‑use community that is home to 8,500 families.
With a diverse mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial opportunities, and abundant open space, Rio 1900 is designed to offer a wide range of housing and lifestyle choices for future residents. The Goodyear City Council recently approved a minor General Plan amendment and rezoning request for the project, paving the way for up to 5,800 homes across single‑family and multifamily options, along with retail, restaurants, and civic uses.
Construction is anticipated to begin in 2027, with the first homes expected to be delivered in 2029.
Harvard Investments purchased the primary Rio 1900 property (historically known as King Ranch) for $22 million in 2023. Securing the adjacent 80 acres through the State Land auction further solidifies the company’s ability to execute its comprehensive land plan, enhance connectivity across the project area, and deliver an integrated, high‑quality community.
The plan area is organized into several distinct land‑use districts, including:
- Village Neighborhood
- Urban Neighborhood
- Estate Residential
- Commercial
- Open Space
- Civic Use
Designed around these districts, Rio 1900 will offer home types ranging from large‑lot estate residences to traditional single‑family homes and multifamily living. Amenities are expected to include commercial activity centers, and civic spaces. Every residence is planned to be within a five‑minute walk of a park, trail, or open space. It’s a reflection of the community’s emphasis on walkability, recreation, and access to nature.
“Rio 1900 represents a rare opportunity to shape nearly 2,000 acres in one of the most dynamic growth corridors in the country,” Amy added. “Our vision is to create a community that honors the character of the desert, provides meaningful connections to the outdoors, and offers a wide range of housing and lifestyle choices for future residents.”
Harvard Investments extends its appreciation to the partners contributing to the advancement of Rio 1900, including RVi (entitlements, land planning, and community design), CVL (engineering), Lokahi (traffic), and Burch & Cracchiolo (legal).
As the project continues to move forward, the successful land auction marks a meaningful milestone. It will bring the future Rio 1900 community another step closer to reality.
