Chandler’s 100-Acre Mesquite Groves Park Moves Forward, Opening Planned for Fall 2028

South Chandler residents have waited a long time for this one — and construction is finally on the horizon.

Mesquite Groves Park, a 100-acre park site at the northwest corner of Val Vista Drive and Riggs Road, is moving forward with its first phase of development. Early site work is scheduled to begin in late 2026, with the first 52 acres expected to open in fall 2028.

The long-awaited project will bring new outdoor recreation opportunities to south Chandler, adding amenities that nearby residents have been looking forward to for years.

Where Is Mesquite Groves Park?

Mesquite Groves Park is located in south Chandler, at the northwest corner of Val Vista Drive and Riggs Road, next to the existing Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center.

The site is surrounded by established neighborhoods, schools, and sports facilities.

The City of Chandler purchased the approximately 100-acre property in 2000. In 2008, the city opened the Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center on roughly 10 acres, reserving the remaining land for future park development.

More than two decades later, that vision is finally moving forward.

One important distinction: this project is not a new water park. The aquatic center has been operating since 2008. The upcoming development will expand the surrounding park and introduce additional recreational amenities.

What’s Planned for the 100-Acre Park?

According to the City of Chandler, Mesquite Groves Park will be developed in phases, with Phase 1 covering approximately 52 acres.

Planned amenities for the first phase include a lake, splash pad, shaded ramadas, sports lighting, and other park facilities designed to support outdoor recreation and community activities.

Project Timeline

• Total park site: Approximately 100 acres
• Phase 1 development: Approximately 52 acres
• October 2026: Native mesquite tree salvage begins
• December 2026: Construction of the Roosevelt Water Conservation District (RWCD) turnout structure begins
• March 2027: Main construction for Phase 1 is scheduled to begin
• Fall 2028: Phase 1 is expected to open
• Phase 2: Design is scheduled to begin in April 2027, with future construction dependent on additional funding and bond approval

Funding for Phase 1 is also in place. Chandler voters approved a bond measure in November 2025 that included $30 million for the project, while more than $30 million in park development fees has been prioritized toward construction.

Together, these funding sources are intended to support completion of the first phase.

As with any major public project, construction schedules and amenities may change as development progresses.

Why This Park Matters for South Chandler

For families living in south Chandler, a large community park offers more than just additional green space.

As surrounding neighborhoods have grown, so has the demand for walking paths, outdoor recreation, children’s activities, and places where residents can gather.

In Arizona, well-designed public parks with shaded areas and water features can make a meaningful difference in how residents enjoy their neighborhoods, particularly during the cooler months.

With its planned recreational amenities and existing aquatic center, Mesquite Groves Park has the potential to become a major gathering place for the south Chandler community.

What Does This Mean for Chandler Homebuyers?

When choosing a neighborhood, homebuyers often look beyond the house itself. Nearby parks, schools, recreation facilities, and everyday conveniences can all play a role in where people decide to live.

A project of this size could make surrounding neighborhoods more appealing to buyers who value outdoor recreation and access to community amenities.

That doesn’t necessarily mean nearby home values will increase. Real estate prices are influenced by many factors, including housing supply, buyer demand, interest rates, and individual property characteristics.

Still, for anyone considering a home in south Chandler, long-term public investments like Mesquite Groves Park are worth keeping an eye on.

They help paint a broader picture of how a neighborhood may evolve over time.

Looking Ahead

Mesquite Groves Park is one of south Chandler’s most significant upcoming community projects.

After more than 25 years since the city purchased the land, the first major phase of park development is finally approaching construction, with an anticipated opening in fall 2028.

For current residents, it means more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors close to home. For prospective homebuyers, it’s another piece of the bigger picture when exploring neighborhoods in Chandler.

Whether you’re already living in the area or considering a move, Mesquite Groves Park is a development worth watching.