The suburban community of Goodyear was actually founded by the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company as long ago as 1916. The company was interested in this area for the production of cotton used in tire cords. The establishment of a U.S. Naval air station in Goodyear spurred the development of Goodyear Aircraft, a manufacturing plant for Navy seaplane flight decks. The former Goodyear Aircraft is today’s Lockheed Martin, still one of the community’s largest employers. With the strength of its leading-edge aerospace activity, food processing plants, and close proximity to important California markets, Goodyear benefits from a vital local economy.
The popularity of the Southwest Valley for new-home construction has expanded the quality residential development. Goodyear civic planners are committed to developing neighborhoods where homes are solidly built and residents have access to cultural and recreational amenities. Other priorities are aesthetic appeal and the preservation of open space. The award-winning, master-planned communities in this area such as Estrella Mountain Ranch are attracting the lion’s share of new homebuyers. Estrella Mountain Ranch hosts the Cool Desert Jazz Festival each fall, while the Phoenix Symphony Pops Concerts entertain large crowds in the springtime. Residents enjoy a farmer’s market, the annual Pumpkin Festival, an Easter egg hunt, and the unique activities at Duncan Family Farms. Many of the Goodyear area’s special events are either sponsored by or supported by the active West Valley Fine Arts Council.
Outdoor attractions include the Estrella Mountain Regional Park for fine golfing, camping, horseback riding, hiking, and picnicking. White Tanks Regional Park, Phoenix International Raceway, and a wide variety of exceptional golf courses add to the quality of life for Goodyear residents and draw visitors from across the Valley. Bisected by Interstate 10, the city offers an accessible yet tranquil location just minutes from the cultural venues and professional sports stadiums of downtown Phoenix.
GOODYEAR MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES
Estrella Mountain Ranch, South Estrella Parkway, Goodyear. http://www.lifeinestrella.com/ The jewel of southwestern development offers a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, expansive lakes, mountain views, miles of hiking trails, and a variety of home styles.
Palm Valley, North Litchfield Road, Goodyear. http://www.palmvalleyhomeowners.com/ Distinctive residential villages surround the golf course. Amenities include a clubhouse and restaurant as well as walking paths.
Pebble Creek, Clubhouse Drive, Goodyear. http://www.pebblecreekhoa.org/home.asp This premier active-adult golf and tennis resort village in the Palm Valley community features a spectacular multi-million-dollar recreation complex.
