Providing safe and welcoming public spaces is important in Goodyear. On a visit to Estrella Vista Park South, Mayor Pizzillo met a couple of the city’s youngest residents enjoying a game on the basketball court.
As we begin 2026, I find myself both proud and grateful as I look back on the progress we made, together, in Goodyear over the past year. In 2025, our city continued to build on a strong foundation, move important projects forward and grow as a place where people are proud to live, work and raise a family. Thanks to steady investment, strong community involvement and a clear vision for the future, it was another meaningful year for Goodyear.
headed. Buc-ee’s will help position our city as a destination for the West Valley and the state, while also opening the door to future investment, tourism and economic opportunity.
ROOTED. READY. RISING. help ensure that Goodyear’s growth is thoughtful, sustainable and centered on maintaining the quality of life our residents value.
This year, we welcomed two new councilmembers whose fresh perspectives and dedication to service strengthen our city council. Their voices and ideas will play an important role as we continue planning for Goodyear’s future.
Another long-awaited moment came with the opening of Trader Joe’s. After years of anticipation and community interest, the store opened its doors in November, and the excitement was felt across the city. Its arrival adds energy to GSQ and brings another amenity that many residents have been hoping to see right here at home. We welcomed many other new businesses this year, as well, including several at GSQ such as High Tide, Over Easy, Shake Shack and Banner Medical Center - all met with a warm welcome from our community.
Supporting our youth remained a priority throughout the year. Through the work of Goodyear’s Youth Commission, we continued to give young people a voice in their city and opportunities to engage in civic life. We were also proud to welcome Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Center to Goodyear, a space where teens can explore music, arts and creativity in a safe, supportive environment while building confidence and life skills. These efforts reflect a shared belief that investing in our youth is an investment in Goodyear’s future.
One of the biggest milestones of the year was the groundbreaking of Bucee’s. This project is about more than a new development; it’s a sign of how far Goodyear has come and where we are
Throughout 2025, we also continued to invest in the infrastructure that keeps our city moving forward. From road improvements to utility upgrades and long-term planning, these efforts
Our sense of community continued to shine in 2025 as residents came together for events, programs and gatherings across the city. These moments, big and small, remind us that
2
goodyearaz.gov/InFocus
2026 STATE OF THE CITY
MAYOR PIZZILLO’S TOP PRIORITIES IN 2026
Goodyear is more than a growing city, it’s a place where people connect and look out for one another. None of this progress would be possible without the dedication of our city staff and public safety professionals. Throughout the year, our police officers, firefighters and city employees continued to deliver exceptional service, ensuring Goodyear remains a safe, welcoming and well-managed city. Their commitment and professionalism are the foundation of our success. This year also brought the news of a significant transition. In October, City Manager Wynette Reed announced her retirement. While we are excited for the next chapter of her life, her leadership will be greatly missed. Under her guidance, Goodyear saw
The opening of Trader Joe’s marked a milestone. Goodyear will continue to welcome highly desired businesses, like Trader Joe’s, to the city.
tremendous progress, including the continued growth and revitalization of our downtown and civic spaces. Her thoughtful leadership and collaboration will endure as we begin the search for our next city manager. Lastly, I am especially excited to share that Goodyear’s State of the City Address will be open to the public this year. I invite you to join us as we reflect on where we’ve been and share where we’re going. The State of the City will be held at The Refinery Christian Church on Wednesday, February 4, at 3:30 p.m. As we move into 2026, our focus remains clear, to grow thoughtfully, stay connected as a community and keep Goodyear a city we are proud to call home. Thank you for being part of Goodyear’s journey and for all you do to make this city such a special place.
The city’s growing internship program is building our workforce. Mayor Pizzillo met with two former interns who are now city employees.
YOU’RE INVITED! Mayor ’s S t a t e o f the Ci t y
Wednesday, Feb. 4 • 3:30- 4:30 p.m.
The Refiner y Christian Church • 16721 W. Indian School Rd. ROOTED
•
READY
•
RISING
PUBLIC SAFETY Public safety remains the top priority. Goodyear will continue to invest in the people, training and tools that keep our community protected.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS The city continues to be one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation and with growth comes major opportunities and challenges. The city will continue to carefully plan to expand infrastructure, improve mobility and support future development through Capital Improvement Projects.
QUALITY AMENITIES The community consistently ranks quality amenities among its top priorities. Whether it’s parks, recreation centers, trails, arts and culture or family-friendly spaces – we will focus on developing new amenities to enhance everyday life in Goodyear.
Goodyear High School, home of the Mavericks, opened its doors in 2025 Goodyear is rich in history. See how the spirit of a former landmark lives on at Goodyear High School.
January 2026
3
COUNCIL CORNER
VICE MAYOR
COUNCILMEMBER
COUNCILMEMBER
Moving into 2026, I’m
In 2026, I’m excited to
Goodyear’s 2025 headlines
excited to welcome even
see the completion of
were inspiring, especially
more residents who will call
our scalloped streets
the heroism of our officer
Goodyear home. Our city is
alongside infrastructure
who rescued a woman
poised for strong economic
improvements that
from a burning car on
development, bringing
support the continued
I-10. Looking at 2026, we
new retail, job centers
growth and make our
see more residents, new
and opportunities for our
streets more user-
announcements for GSQ
community. I look forward
friendly. Supporting
and Buc-ee’s mania taking
to continued investment
opportunities for
over Arizona in the summer.
that strengthens our local
residents to connect with
Goodyear is prepared to meet
economy. Above all, I’m
one another will also
the challenges that may come
committed to providing
remain a priority, helping
and I’m excited to watch for
exceptional service as
keep Goodyear a special
the moments of goodness as
we grow.
place to live.
they unfold in the new year.
BRANNON HAMPTON
4
goodyearaz.gov/InFocus
WALLY CAMPBELL
LAURA KAINO
2026 STATE OF THE CITY
What are you looking forward to in 2026? R OO T E D in s er v ic e. R E A DY f or pr og r e s s . R IS ING wi t h pur po s e.
COUNCILWOMAN
COUNCILMEMBER
COUNCILMEMBER
In 2026, I’m looking forward
We will see a year of
In 2026, I’m looking forward
to building on Goodyear’s
continued growth designed
to keeping Goodyear’s
strong foundation of public
to enhance the quality of
growth on a smart and
safety as our community
life for our residents. GSQ
steady path. The top priority
continues to grow.
will add additional retail,
is public safety, making
Ensuring our police and fire
restaurants and entertainment
sure our police and fire
departments have the tools
options. In addition, there is
teams have what they need
they need remains a top
new development planned
to do their jobs well. Just
priority. I’m excited to see
in the Ballpark Village area
as important is keeping
thoughtful development
with Rush Funplex, a family
city services reliable and
that enhances our quality
entertainment center and more
responsive and staying
of life. Together, we’ll
food options. And opening in
careful with taxpayer dollars
continue creating a safe,
2026, the most talked about
so Goodyear remains a safe,
vibrant and welcoming city
development is the first ever
well-run place for families to
for all.
Arizona location of the popular
call home.
VICKI GILLIS
BENITA BECKLES
TREY TERRY
travel center Buc-ee’s. ROOTED
•
READY
•
RISING
January 2026
5
ROOTED IN TRUST.
READY FOR TOMORROW.
RISING
TO MEET EVERY CALL.
95
%
Residents feel safe in their
neighborhood during the day The National Community Survey 2025
6
goodyearaz.gov/InFocus
Public safety is at the heart of everything we do in Goodyear. It is the top priority of the city council, and residents consistently rank it as a top priority in community surveys. From emergency response to community programs, our city is committed to protecting our community and creating a safe, thriving place. That commitment is reflected in how residents feel. In the 2025 community survey, 95% of residents said they feel safe in their neighborhood during the day. Throughout the year, our public safety teams worked tirelessly to strengthen emergency services and improve response times. Key accomplishments include: COMMUNITY RESPONSE TEAM EXPANSION A new shift was added to provide 24/7 coverage and ensure rapid response to community needs. EXPANDED AMBULANCE COVERAGE Emergency medical services grew, helping reduce wait times and deliver faster care to residents.
FIRE STATION UPDATES Fire stations were remodeled and redesigned to support modern emergency operations with a focus on the health of our firefighters. GROWING DEPARTMENTS Both the fire and police departments welcomed dozens of new firefighters and officers, strengthening the city’s capacity to serve. REAL-TIME OPERATIONS CENTER The police department is in the process of building and integrating a realtime operations center to enhance coordination, situational awareness and response capabilities. VIRTUAL BLOCK WATCH This new program allows residents to play an active role in investigations by voluntarily registering exterior home security cameras with the police department. AI FORENSIC ART TECHNOLOGY Innovative AI tools were integrated to enhance investigations and solve cases more efficiently. 2026 STATE OF THE CITY
HOW RESIDENTS KEEP OUR CITY SAFE Residents play a crucial role in making Goodyear a safe place to live. From participating in neighborhood watch programs to volunteering with public safety initiatives, community members are active partners in keeping our city secure. Residents are encouraged to observe and report unusual activity. Call the police department’s 24hour non-emergency number at 623-932-1220 or dial 911 in an emergency.
Learn more about the city’s public safety programs and services at goodyearaz.gov/fire and goodyearaz.gov/police.
LOOKING AHEAD Our focus remains on keeping Goodyear safe while adapting to a growing city. Key priorities include: •
ROOTED
•
READY
•
Continuing to expand the Community Response Team and EMS capabilities
•
Completing ongoing fire station upgrades to improve response efficiency
•
Further integrating technology to enhance public safety operations
•
Recruiting and training additional personnel to meet the needs of a growing population
RISING
There is now a School Resource Officer at every district high school in the city. Scan the QR code to see how they help keep schools safe while building positive connections with students and staff.
January 2026
7
ROOTED IN SMART PLANNING.
READY FOR GROWTH.
RISING
STREET BY STREET. 2025 GROWTH AT A GLANCE
74
*
New Retail Businesses
1,928 Growth * Job
* Based on businesses that worked with the city’s Economic Development Department in 2025.
8
goodyearaz.gov/InFocus
Goodyear is one of the fastest growing cities in the nation with more than 122 thousand residents.
Goodyear is a city on the move. In 2025, the city made significant progress improving streets, water infrastructure and public facilities, ensuring our community is ready for today’s needs and tomorrow’s growth. Through strategic planning and thoughtful investment, Goodyear continues building a strong foundation that supports both residents and businesses.
IMPROVING OUR ROADS Key resurfacing, widening and connectivity projects are improving traffic flow and enhancing safety across the city. ESTRELLA PARKWAY & I-10 A second left turn lane and a third thru lane for both northbound and southbound was added under the I-10 underpass in 2025. All lanes are now open as the project gets ready to wrap up in February. MCDOWELL ROAD (LITCHFIELD ROAD TO DYSART ROAD) A third through lane will be added in each direction, improving traffic flow and capacity. Intersection improvements at Litchfield and McDowell Roads will also be made. Construction is planned to begin in spring 2026. CAMELBACK ROAD (SR 303 TO 152ND AVENUE) Additional vehicle lanes will be added in each direction with bike lanes. Improvements will also be made to the
median, curbs and gutters, sidewalks and drainage. Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2026. STREET PAVEMENT PROGRAM Annual pavement maintenance projects are underway, with some completed in 2025 and the remainder scheduled for 2026. Approximately 55 lane miles of city streets will be treated over the next year to maintain safe, smooth and reliable roadways. 2026 STATE OF THE CITY
INVESTING IN OUR WATER INFRASTRUCTURE ONE-OF-A-KIND BRINE DISPOSAL SYSTEM
Goodyear continues to invest in water and wastewater systems to ensure reliability, capacity and long-term resiliency.
Work continues to build a first of its kind brine disposal system. Underground pipelines are being built at Cotton Lane/MC 85 to move brine, a byproduct of water treatment, to the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station for use in its cooling system. This will allow brine waste to be used and eliminate the need for it to be processed at the city’s water reclamation facility. It’s expected to be up and running in early 2026.
RAINBOW VALLEY WATER RECLAMATION FACILITY EXPANSION Construction continues on the water reclamation facility in the southern part of the city. Once complete, the facility will be able to treat 2 million gallons of wastewater per day. The facility treats wastewater using a multistep process that includes biological treatment, filtration and disinfection. After treatment, the water is delivered to reservoirs for storage until needed for irrigation. Construction will continue into 2026 to expand the reclamation facility in Rainbow Valley.
ENHANCING TRAILS AND RECREATION
LEADING THE WAY
Improving amenities for residents includes expanding trails and recreation facilities to improve connectivity and access. BULLARD WASH TRAIL EXTENSION Goodyear City Hall, GSQ and Goodyear Ballpark will be connected with a nearly three-mile trail extension from McDowell Road to Lower Buckeye Road. The project, which also includes safety features and key access points, is currently in the design phase. Construction is expected to start in mid-to-late 2026. GOODYEAR RECREATION CAMPUS PHASE II Development of the remaining 46 acres of park property will complete the campus with a total of 86 acres and become the city’s first regional park. The project supports long term growth and expands access to recreation for all residents. Park design will begin this month with construction set to begin January 2028. ROOTED
•
READY
•
Goodyear is gaining national attention for innovative solutions that protect residents and city employees. PREVENTING TRASH TRUCK FIRES Across the country, trash truck fires are on the rise and often caused by improper disposal of lithium-ion and rechargeable batteries. Goodyear is the first city in the nation to test thermal imaging camera technology in solid waste trucks. The system monitors temperatures in real time and alerts drivers if unsafe heat levels are detected, allowing crews to respond before a fire starts. This proactive approach helps protect drivers, neighborhoods and equipment. Residents can help keep Goodyear safe by never placing lithium-ion or rechargeable batteries in household trash. Instead, dispose of them at approved drop-off locations such as Best Buy, Home Depot or Lowe’s.
RISING
Residents’ voices have been heard! In November, Trader Joe’s officially opened its doors. Since 2017, it has been the most requested business by residents. Trader Joe’s is part of Goodyear’s growing new downtown, GSQ. In 2025, 13 other businesses opened at GSQ including Avila University at the upscale office space GEN1 and Banner Health. Several other businesses were announced in 2025, and there are more to come in 2026!
Get the latest on what’s coming to GSQ at goodyearaz.gov/ downtown.
BUC-EE’S COUNTDOWN Arizona’s first Buc‑ee’s is coming soon to Goodyear. It’s on track to open this summer and will be 74,000 square feet – that’s larger than an NFL football field – and will include 120 fueling stations and its iconic Texas‑style barbecue, homemade fudge, wall of beef jerky and Beaver Nuggets.
January 2026
9
The expansion of the Rainbow Valley Water Reclamation Facility is funded in part by user fees.
ROOTED IN RESPONSIBILITY.
READY FOR RELIABILITY.
RISING TO MEET DEMAND.
THE 2021 UTILITY RATE PLAN The last utility rate plan in 2021, included both an increase and a decrease in city rates. At that time, the average Goodyear resident saw their monthly utility bill go up by about 2.7% each year. Solid Waste started with a 17.5% reduction in the first year, then gradually returned to 2020 levels by 2025.
10
goodyearaz.gov/InFocus
The commitment to providing exceptional service often means making tough decisions on investments for the future. An example of this is the four-year utility rate plan that goes into effect this year. It includes adjustments to water, wastewater and solid waste rates to keep pace with rising operational and infrastructure costs.
and are supported entirely by user fees, meaning customers pay only for the services they use.
Like many utilities across the Valley, Goodyear is experiencing higher expenses for electricity, construction, equipment, treatment materials and disposal services. In Goodyear, these critical services are not funded by taxes
The new rates will first appear on customer utility bills in February. Customers will see an increase of approximately 5.8–5.9% per year, or on average* about $8.50 more per month in the first year, depending on water use.
These changes apply to water and wastewater customers in the city’s water service area generally located south of I-10 and to residential solid waste customers citywide.
Here is how that $8.50 breaks down for each service in the first year: f Water: $2.71 more per month City of Goodyear Water Customers only
f Wastewater: $3.97 more per month City of Goodyear Water Customers only
f Solid Waste: $1.82 more per month Citywide Residential Customers only * Average is based on average residential
household use of 7.5k gallons of water and 6k gallons of wastewater per month.
2026 STATE OF THE CITY
The Goodyear City Council opted not to approve a stormwater fee increase as originally proposed in the Utility Rate Plan to reduce the financial impact on residents and will continue to use monies from the city’s general operating fund to cover the nearly $3 million budget impact.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK
ONGOING COMMITMENT TO QUALITY SERVICES The rate plan supports the city’s commitment to providing safe, reliable and high-quality utility services. Revenue from the new rates will help fund day-today operations, system maintenance and critical long-term investments, such as expanding treatment plants for surface water and wastewater, installing new PFAS treatment technology, replacing aging equipment and infrastructure and adding a convenient and safe drop-off site for household hazardous waste and recyclables.
For more information about the 2026 Utility Rate Plan, visit goodyearaz.gov/servicerates. ROOTED
•
READY
•
RISING
The city doesn’t take rate increases lightly. A critical part of the process is public feedback. Each rate plan decision is developed through a utility rate study, in partnership with the Citizens Water Advisory Committee (a group made up of Goodyear residents), city staff and an independent consulting firm that routinely performs such assessments of utilities nationwide. The city council values resident feedback, as it helps guide the council in their decision-making process. There was also a public hearing for residents to speak directly to council on this topic. It was a priority for the city to communicate this important topic beyond what is required by state statute to ensure transparency and to encourage residents to weigh in.
January 2026
11
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY.
READY FOR PLAY.
RISING
In Goodyear, we believe a city is more than streets, neighborhoods and buildings. As Mayor Pizzillo often says, “We’re not just a bunch of neighborhoods; we’re a community that thrives together.” That commitment guides every initiative, event and program designed to strengthen connections and improve quality of life for residents.
Ribbon cut! The Loma Linda Park Splash Pad opened in 2025.
2025 E VEN T S BY THE NUMBERS
TOGETHER.
According to the 2025 community survey, over 85% of residents feel a sense of belonging in Goodyear. Events like spring training and community festivals play a key role in fostering that connection.
12
goodyearaz.gov/InFocus
26
FESTIVAL AND COMMUNITY EVENTS
152,118
FANS ATTENDED SPRING TRAINING
2026 STATE OF THE CITY
Mayor and councilmembers join Alice Cooper onstage at the grand opening of the Solid Rock Teen Center in April 2025, celebrating a new space for youth programs, creativity, and community connection in Goodyear.
RESIDENTS SHAPING GOODYEAR Residents actively help guide city decisions through participation on boards and committees. Members on the city’s boards, commissions and ad hoc committees make recommendations to council regarding a range of topics, including projects and policy related to arts and culture, planning and zoning, parks and recreation and so much more! Applications are always accepted.
Apply today at goodyearaz.gov/boardsrecruit.
COMING SOON
97,000
ATTENDEES AT THE CITY’S LARGEST EVENTS
936
460,000
GOODYEAR LITTLE LEAGUE PLAYERS
ROOTED
•
READY
RECREATION CENTER VISITORS
•
RISING
Goodyear311 is the city’s easy-touse tool for reporting concerns and requesting services. Soon, it will be available as an app! You’ll be able to download it to your phone for quick access to report issues like potholes, streetlight outages and graffiti 24/7. Using Goodyear311 is the fastest way to get your concerns addressed, and you get notified along the way as the city works on your report.
Submit your report today at goodyearaz.gov/311. January 2026
13
ROOTED IN VISION.
READY FOR ACTION.
RISING
Last year, you – the residents – took part in an important survey. You shared feedback on a wide range of questions, including your thoughts on city programs and services. Your input plays a key role in shaping the city’s priorities, helping guide areas of focus and resources and investments.
WITH INTENTION.
Residents also highlighted priorities for the city moving forward, including: •
Air quality
•
Preservation of the community’s historical and cultural character
•
Well-planned residential and commercial growth
•
Transportation, including traffic flow and public transit
HERE’S WHAT YOU TOLD US ABOUT LIVING IN GOODYEAR: 9 OUT OF 10 residents would recommend living in Goodyear 95% feel safe in their neighborhood during the day 87% say Goodyear is an excellent or good place to raise kids 87% rate the quality of life in Goodyear as excellent or good 84% rate the city’s recreation centers and facilities as excellent or good 83% rate the overall quality of city services as excellent or good Learn more about the survey and read the full results at goodyearaz.gov/communitysurvey.
CHECK OUT WHAT THE CITY IS WORKING ON The city strives to be innovative and to continuously improve, enhance and increase services and programs to best meet the needs of our growing community. In 2025, the city launched a site where you can view what the city is working on to advance Goodyear in one convenient spot.
View the city’s strategic priorities, projects and progress at goodyearaz.gov/AdvancingGoodyear. 14
goodyearaz.gov/InFocus
2026 STATE OF THE CITY
BY
T HE
NUMBE R S
122,569 RESIDENTS
200+
20
RESTAURANTS & SPECIALTY FOOD SPOTS
CITY PARKS
There WILL BE trash, recycling and bulk collections on Monday, January 19. Check your service day at goodyearaz.gov/trash
56 miles
100+ miles
DESERT TRAILS
PAVED BIKE ROUTES
GOODYEAR CITY COUNCIL CALENDAR January 5
5 p.m.
Work Session
January 12
5 p.m.
Work Session
January 26
5 p.m.
Council Meeting
February 2
5 p.m.
Work Session & Council Meeting
February 9
5 p.m.
Work Session
Meeting dates are subject to change. For the latest meeting information, visit goodyearaz.gov. Council meetings and work sessions are held at Goodyear City Hall at GSQ, Council Chambers, 1900 N. Civic Square. Catch all of the council meetings streaming live on the city’s Facebook and X pages and YouTube channel.
GOODYEAR CITY COUNCIL
(front row; l to r): Wally Campbell, Mayor Joe Pizzillo, Laura Kaino. (back row): Trey Terry, Vicki Gillis, Benita Beckles, Vice Mayor Brannon Hampton.
ROOTED
•
READY
•
RISING
InFocus Magazine • Goodyear Digital Communications Questions or comments, email: communications@goodyearaz.gov
January 2026
15
PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE
ECRWSS Postal Customer 1900 N. Civic Square Goodyear AZ 85395 goodyearaz.gov 623-932-3910
Goodyear Ballpark Ticket Office and Team Shop will open for in-person sales Saturday, Jan. 31 at 10 a.m.
PAID
GOODYEAR, AZ PERMIT #216