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Estrella, Goodyear facts for kids

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Estrella, Arizona
Neighborhood
North Lake in Estrella
North Lake in Estrella
Estrella, Goodyear is located in Arizona
Estrella, Goodyear
Estrella, Goodyear
Location in Arizona
Estrella, Goodyear is located in the United States
Estrella, Goodyear
Estrella, Goodyear
Location in the United States
Country United States
State Arizona
County Maricopa
City Goodyear
Opened 1998
Area
 • Total 31.25 sq mi (80.9 km2)
 • Land 20,000 acre (8,000 ha)
Population
 • Estimate 
(2023)
21,000
Time zone UTC-7

Estrella is a large, planned community located in Goodyear, Arizona. It covers about 20,000 acres, which is roughly the size of 15,000 football fields! This community is part of Maricopa County, Arizona, in the United States.

Estrella sits in the foothills of the Sierra Estrella Mountains. This area is part of the beautiful Sonoran Desert, known for its unique plants and animals. In 2023, about 21,000 people lived in Estrella, in around 7,600 homes.

History of Estrella

How Estrella Began

The land where Estrella is now was once a federal land reserve. In 1984, the government allowed this land to be sold to private owners. A year later, in 1985, a company bought the land. Their goal was to create a brand new, carefully planned community.

Early Development and Growth

Construction started in 1986. Workers began building two large lakes, called North Lake and South Lake. Together, these lakes cover 72 acres. In 1988, the Estrella Master-Planned Community officially opened its doors.

A golf course, called The Golf Club of Estrella, opened in 1999. It has 18 holes designed by Nicklaus Design. This course offers fun challenges for golfers of all skill levels.

Estrella View
Estrella Community

New Owners and More Growth

In 2005, a company called Newland Communities took over Estrella. They focused on helping the community grow in smart ways. A second part of Estrella, called Montecito, opened in 2007.

In 2010, a special community for people aged 55 and older, called CantaMia, officially opened. That same year, a shopping area called Mountain Ranch Marketplace welcomed its main grocery store, Safeway. Medical services also became available in Estrella in 2013, when Banner Health Medical Center opened in the Mountain Ranch Medical Commons.

Neighborhoods in Estrella

Estrella is made up of different neighborhoods, each with its own feel.

  • Estrella Mountain Ranch
  • Montecito
  • Cantamia - This neighborhood is designed for people aged 55 and older.

Parks and Fun Things to Do

Estrella offers many ways to enjoy the outdoors and stay active.

  • There are 65 miles (about 105 kilometers) of hiking trails. These trails are great for exploring the desert.
  • The community has 72 acres of lakes and parks. These areas are perfect for picnics or just relaxing.
  • The Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater is a place where events and shows can be held.
  • The Golf Club of Estrella is available for golf enthusiasts.
  • There is a community welcome center to help new residents.
  • A waterpark offers a fun way to cool off.
  • The Yacht Club of Estrella provides activities on the lakes.
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