Eastmark, AZ, stands as a remarkable example of modern community development in the East Valley of Arizona. Its history reflects a thoughtful transformation from industrial land to a well-planned neighborhood that balances residential living with commercial and recreational opportunities. The community’s evolution highlights the importance of strategic planning, sustainable growth, and collaboration among developers, businesses, and residents.
Understanding the key events and milestones in Eastmark, AZ’s history provides valuable insight into how this community has grown into a dynamic place to live, work, and play. From its early beginnings as a proving ground to its current status as a thriving neighborhood, Eastmark, AZ, continues to attract families and businesses looking for a balanced and connected lifestyle. This article examines the pivotal moments that have shaped Eastmark, AZ, and what the community has to offer today.
The Beginning of Eastmark’s Transformation
The land that is now Eastmark, AZ, was once known as the General Motors Proving Ground, where automotive testing and innovation took place for decades. This industrial past laid the foundation for the area’s future potential.
In 2006, Scottsdale-based developer DMB purchased the 3,200-acre site for $260 million, marking the first major step toward reimagining the space as a residential and commercial community. This acquisition was a bold move, especially considering the impending downturn in the housing market, but it set the stage for what would become a thriving new neighborhood.
One of the earliest milestones in Eastmark, AZ’s development was the engagement with neighbors and community members through open houses and brainstorming sessions. This approach ensured that the community’s design would reflect the needs and desires of future residents, fostering a sense of ownership and belonging from the start. By 2010, significant recycling and remediation efforts were underway to prepare the site, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable development.
Breaking Ground and Building a Community
The groundbreaking of First Solar Inc. as the first business to establish itself in Eastmark, AZ, was a pivotal moment. This event marked the community’s transition from industrial use to a mixed-use development that combines business, residential, and recreational spaces. The presence of First Solar also highlighted the area’s alignment with innovative and sustainable industries, reinforcing its modern identity.
In 2013, Eastmark, AZ, officially opened to the public, welcoming its first residents and businesses. This grand opening was more than a ceremonial event. It marked the beginning of a new chapter where the vision of a “city within a city” started to materialize. Over the following years, new partners and builders joined the effort, investing millions to develop homes and infrastructure.
The commitment of seven major builders to purchase the first 709 home lots in 2012 was a clear sign of confidence in the community’s future and the broader Arizona housing market.
Growing With Purpose and Innovation
As Eastmark, AZ, continued to evolve, it embraced innovative planning concepts that balanced residential living with commercial opportunities and green spaces. The community plan, approved by the City of Mesa in 2008, laid out a comprehensive vision for infrastructure, development units, and public amenities. This careful planning ensured that growth would be sustainable and well-integrated into the surrounding region.
One of the more recent milestones was the groundbreaking of Encore at Eastmark, the community’s first neighborhood designed specifically for active adults. This development reflects Eastmark, AZ’s commitment to meeting diverse needs and creating inclusive spaces for all stages of life. It also underscores the community’s ongoing evolution and adaptability as it continues to attract new residents and businesses.
Eastmark’s Role in the Larger Mesa and Arizona Story
While Eastmark, AZ, is a relatively new community, it is part of a broader historical and economic context in Mesa and the East Valley. The area’s development has been influenced by regional infrastructure projects, such as the Arizona Canal in the 1880s and the Roosevelt Dam in the early 20th century, which helped transform the Salt River Valley into a thriving agricultural and urban region. These earlier milestones set the stage for modern communities, such as Eastmark, AZ, to flourish.
Today, Eastmark, AZ, stands as a symbol of Mesa’s growth and the ongoing transformation of the Phoenix metropolitan area. The community’s blend of residential neighborhoods, business parks, and recreational facilities reflects the region’s shift toward diversified economies and improvements in quality of life. For those considering moving to the area, Eastmark, AZ, offers a glimpse of what modern suburban living can look like when guided by thoughtful planning and community engagement.
Reflecting on the history of Eastmark, AZ, it is clear that this community’s success is rooted in a series of deliberate and forward-looking decisions. From the initial purchase of the land and environmental remediation to the welcoming of innovative businesses and diverse residents, every milestone has contributed to shaping a sustainable neighborhood. The story of Eastmark, AZ, is still unfolding, but its past and present achievements offer inspiration for what a well-planned community can accomplish.
For those who live in Eastmark, AZ, or are considering making it their home, the community represents more than just a place to live—it embodies a vision of growth, innovation, and inclusivity. As the community continues to evolve, it remains a compelling example of how history, planning, and community spirit can come together to create a truly exceptional place.
Sources: azcentral.com, en.wikipedia.org
Header Image Source: azcentral.com
