Chandler is rapidly approaching a turning point in its growth, as the city is nearly out of land available for traditional, horizontal development. City officials say Chandler is now about 94% built out, leaving very little space for new projects that expand outward. With only about 6% of land remaining, most of that space is already designated for employment-related uses rather than residential housing.

As a result, city planners and developers are beginning to shift their focus toward building upward instead of outward. The idea of vertical development is becoming increasingly important as Chandler looks for ways to accommodate future growth without additional land. This shift represents a major change in how the city may evolve in the coming years.

The city’s 2026 General Plan update highlights a growing mismatch between the number of housing units needed and the limited land available to build them. With demand continuing to rise, developers say increasing density is one of the only viable solutions. One developer emphasized that in order to meet the needs of a growing population, the city will need to embrace more compact and vertical forms of development.

Supporters of this approach say that building taller structures could do more than just add housing. They believe it could also bring new life to commercial areas by increasing foot traffic and attracting more customers to nearby businesses. Areas like Arizona Avenue and Alma School Road could benefit significantly from an increase in residents living nearby, which could help strengthen local retail and economic activity.

Under the city’s draft plan, any new residential developments in employment zones would need to be part of larger mixed-use campuses. These developments would include shared amenities and pedestrian-friendly connections designed to integrate housing with workplaces and commercial spaces. The goal is to create more cohesive and walkable environments while still supporting economic growth.

Currently, taller and more dense projects are generally limited to specific areas such as near freeways, downtown districts, and designated growth corridors. However, proposed changes in the 2026 General Plan could expand where this type of development is allowed. One area being considered for future vertical growth is the South Price Corridor, which could open up new opportunities for higher-density projects.

Despite the potential benefits, not everyone in the community is supportive of the shift toward taller buildings. Some residents in established neighborhoods have expressed concerns that increased density could change the character of their communities. These concerns are expected to play a role in upcoming discussions and decisions about the city’s future development plans.

The future of Chandler’s growth strategy will ultimately be decided by voters. The 2026 General Plan is scheduled to go before voters on July 21. In the meantime, residents have the opportunity to voice their opinions by submitting arguments for or against the plan before the April 22 deadline.

As Chandler continues to grow and evolve, the city faces a critical decision about how to balance limited land, increasing demand for housing, and the desires of its residents. The move toward vertical development could reshape the city’s landscape, marking a new chapter in its development as space becomes increasingly scarce.

Source: ABC15