Queen Creek Is Changing Fast: What’s Coming Downtown
If it feels like Queen Creek looks different every time you drive through town, you are not imagining it.
Queen Creek is in the middle of a major period of growth, and one of the most noticeable transformations is happening downtown.
According to the Town of Queen Creek, approximately 230,000 square feet of commercial development is currently underway in the downtown area, representing about $200 million in private investment.
And some very familiar names are coming with it.
The Switchyard Is Bringing Some Big Names to Queen Creek
One of the developments getting plenty of attention is The Switchyard near Ellsworth Loop and Ocotillo.
Businesses currently listed as coming soon include Postino WineCafe, Snooze, Salt & Straw, Shake Shack and Bamboo Sushi. The development is also expected to include solidcore, Room and Porch and additional businesses.
For longtime Queen Creek residents, that is a pretty dramatic change from what this area looked like not very long ago.
There Is More Than The Switchyard
Several additional downtown projects are also underway, including The Perch Development, Rusty Buckle Saloon, Homewood Suites, Magma Plaza and The Matheson.
Queen Creek's goal is to create a more walkable downtown gathering area while still highlighting the town's culture and heritage.
That combination will be interesting to watch.
Queen Creek has always had a distinct personality. There are deep agricultural and equestrian roots here, along with destinations like Schnepf Farms and Queen Creek Olive Mill. At the same time, the community continues to attract new neighborhoods, businesses, restaurants and entertainment.
Why Buyers Keep Asking About Queen Creek
From a real estate standpoint, Queen Creek continues to come up in conversations with buyers because it can offer something different than neighboring Gilbert and Chandler.
There are newer communities, larger homes, opportunities for more land in certain areas and an increasing number of nearby amenities.
Of course, growth also brings challenges. More development can mean construction, traffic and an adjustment period for residents who remember when Queen Creek felt much smaller.
That is why I think it is important to look beyond just the house when you are considering an area.
Where are the roads going?
What is being built nearby?
What schools, parks, restaurants and shopping are planned?
What will your daily life actually look like?
Those questions can be just as important as the number of bedrooms.
Queen Creek Is One to Watch
I have watched the Southeast Valley change tremendously over the years, and Queen Creek is easily one of the most interesting communities to watch right now.
With Downtown Queen Creek taking shape and more restaurants, retail and gathering spaces on the way, this part of the Valley is entering another chapter.
And I have a feeling we are going to have plenty more Queen Creek updates to talk about.
If you are considering Queen Creek, Gilbert, Chandler or another Southeast Valley community, I would love to help you compare the neighborhoods, lifestyles and homes available so you can find the area that feels right for you.
Natalie Fricke, Global Real Estate Advisor
Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
480.748.7885
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